CEO of growing potato chip company steps aside after domestic violence charges

Jim Dumville,
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Covered Bridge Potato Chip Company announced that Ryan Alright, its president and CEO, has taken an extended leave of absence from the company.

The announcement by the shareholders of the Hartland-based company in an Oct. 23 release follows Albright’s arrest on domestic violence charges by the Bangor, Maine, police on Oct. 19.

The company statement also announced the appointment of Brook Dickinson as Executive Vice President.

“This announcement follows the notice that company President and CEO Ryan Albright has chosen to take an extended leave of absence in light of the recent personal health challenges,” the company explained in its statement.

After spending the weekend in the Bangor jail following his Oct. 19 arrest, the Bangor District Court released Albright on $750 US bail after his court appearance on Oct. 21.

Upon his release from custody, the Bangor District Court scheduled Albright to attend court on Jan. 13.

Covered Bridge Potato Chip Company shareholders recognized Albright’s role in the chip plant’s growth.

“The company and its employees would like to acknowledge the tremendous contribution that Mr. Albright has made to the advancement of the company and wish he and his family well with their personal plans,” the statement reads.

The shareholders added that Dickinson’s appointment “brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position, having worked with the company in senior leadership roles for over 15 years.”

Sgt. Jason McAmbley, public information officer with the Bangor Police Department, explained officers arrested Albright after responding to a call shortly after midnight on Saturday, Oct. 19.

He said police arrested the 44-year-old Albright at approximately 1 a.m. after arriving at the Bangor, Maine, residence. He wouldn’t confirm who owns or lives at the residence.

McAmbley said the victim, who he didn’t identify, sustained minor injuries that didn’t require treatment at a hospital.

McAmbley said domestic violence is a serious issue in Bangor and throughout Maine.

“Most of the murders in Maine are related to domestic violence,” he said.

Jim Dumville,
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
River Valley Sun