Long-Time New Hampshire Bail Commissioner Retires After 35 Years

A bail commissioner who has worked for 35 years in New Hampshire's judicial system was honored on Wednesday with a plaque displaying the badges of all the Strafford County police departments he has served.

Howard Hammond's last appointment as a bail commissioner took place in 2016. The five-year appointment says he is authorized to fix and receive bail and other fines and fees as authorized by law in criminal and civil cases brought before the state's circuit and superior courts.

On Wednesday, officials from Somersworth Police Department posted a photo of Hammond surrounded by leaders in law enforcement. He was holding his new plaque.

On Thursday, Chair of the Strafford County Commissioners George Maglaras said Hammond is a "fine gentleman."

"I wish him the best of luck with his retirement. Bail commissioners are important. They're an important part of the judicial system," Maglaras said.

Maglaras said Strafford County has a few bail commissioners and they work on a fee system.

Contact Managing News Editor Kimberley Haas at Kimberley.Haas@townsquaremedia.com.