Alan Pangborn

Alan Pangborn is a fictional character created by Stephen King. The character is the Sheriff of the fictional town of Castle Rock, Maine.

History

Pangborn originally appeared in "The Dark Half". He is elected sheriff following the death of the previous sheriff, George Bannerman, at the hands of the rabid dog, Cujo. Pangborn is one of the long-time residents of Castle Rock, and reappears in the novel "Needful Things", as well as a novella, "The Sun Dog". He is assisted by deputy Norris Ridgwick, John LaPointe, and Andy Clutterbuck.

Following the traumatic events of "The Dark Half", Pangborn suffers constant nightmares. He informs the reader of Thad Beaumont's eventual divorce, alcoholism and suicide. Pangborn also suffers the nightmare of losing his wife and son to a car crash. Pangborn is a skilled magician who uses his magic tricks in a climatic battle against Leland Gaunt, the proprietor of the shop Needful Things. Pangborn is also involved in a romantic relationship with Patricia (Polly) Chalmers, another long-time resident of Castle Rock.

Pangborn was portrayed by Ed Harris in the film adaption of Needful Things and by Michael Rooker in The Dark Half.