The selectmen, or superintendent under their direction, may employ police officers in the detection and conviction of criminals and the prevention of crime in their town, and in the preservation of order on public or special occasions.
RSA 105:4
1852, 1226:2. CS 120:2. GS 235:2. GL 253:2. PS 249:4. PL 363 :4. RL 422:4.