ME LD1710

Expands authority for prisoner transport to include transport officers and corrections officers in addition to sheriff's deputies, with responsibility for safe custody during court proceedings

Creates new statute (17-A MRSA §107-A) establishing when corrections officers, transport officers, and law enforcement may use nondeadly force to prevent escapes or enforce institutional rules, and for self-defense

Authorizes use of deadly force only for self-defense against imminent deadly force, or to prevent escape by persons who committed crimes involving deadly force or pose serious danger to human life

Permits deadly force specifically against Maine State Prison escapees when necessary to prevent escape, with warning required; only state agency employees may use this authority

Requires corrections officers and supervisors who transport prisoners to complete in-service training on use of force outside facilities; those without training are not justified in using force under the new provisions