Maine Public · Ari Snider · September 9, 2026
Maine Department of Corrections Commissioner Randy Liberty, who pioneered a rehabilitation-focused approach to corrections, is retiring at the end of the month.
Gov. Janet Mills announced Liberty's departure on Wednesday, saying his life and career reflect the "profound belief that every person deserves the opportunity for redemption."
Mills said the state's recidivism rate has dropped to one of the lowest in the nation under Liberty's so-called "Maine Model," which focuses on access to rehabilitation, professional training and continuing education programs for residents of state correctional facilities.
Deputy Commissioner Anthony Cantillo will step into the role of acting commissioner when Liberty retires.