Massachusetts Police Chief Retires After No-Confidence Vote by Union

HAVERHILL — Police Chief Robert Pistone, who was placed on paid administrative leave Wednesday while facing an onslaught of criticism from the police union and local residents, has retired.

Thursday afternoon Mayor Melinda Barrett said the decision follows a vote of no-confidence from the police union, outrage over Pistone’s handling of the death of a city man, and concern over how he reacted to the recent unexpected death of a patrol officer.

Barrett released a statement addressing how she initially placed Pistone on paid administrative leave Wednesday and then accepted his retirement Thursday afternoon. She also outlined plans for the future of the Haverhill Police Department, including the appointment of Deputy Chief Stephen Doherty as acting chief.

Barrett said she learned of the Haverhill Police Patrolman’s Association’s votes of “no-confidence” regarding the chief while meeting with union representatives Tuesday, which is when she decided to place Pistone on leave. After Barrett suspended him, Pistone requested personal leave.

But after the city officially served notice confirming Pistone’s leave, he announced his plan to retire immediately Thursday. Barrett accepted his request.

“While his departure ends a chapter, it is not the end of the story,” Barrett said Thursday evening. “I recognize that the men and women of our police force have faced incredibly difficult circumstances and are grieving for the loss of one of their own. Their health and well-being are of utmost importance, and we are making sure they have access to the care they need.”

She added that the city is in the process of hiring an independent third-party investigator to review the unions’ concerns and department-wide operations. She said the findings of this investigation will determine what actions must be taken to ensure the wellness of both the officers and the public.

Reaction to the announcement was swift. Family and friends of patrol officer Katelyn Tully, who died late last month after having been placed on administrative leave for her role in the arrest and subsequent death of Haverhill resident Francis Gigliotti, were pushing for Pistone’s ouster.

John Tully, Katelyn’s father and a retired Lawrence police officer, said Pistone’s resignation was the outcome he was hoping for.

“I think the mayor did the perfect job handling it,” Tully said. “I couldn’t ask for a better resolution than that. My next step is to ensure that the next permanent chief is someone that their department wants – not just a political hack.”

Katelyn Tully, 32, suffered an unattended death on Sept. 26. She was one of seven officers placed on leave following the death of Gigliotti, a Haverhill resident.

Gigliotti died after being restrained in July by a group of officers, including Tully. Gigliotti became unresponsive while being restrained, then was pronounced dead later at a hospital. The incident prompted an investigation by the Essex County District Attorney’s Office.

Tully’s passing led to an outpouring of criticism – both within and outside of the Haverhill Police Department – against Pistone. Claims were made alleging the chief failed to show proper support for her and the six other officers on leave in connection to Gigliotti’s death.

“Katelyn Tully’s passing was a tragic event that was emotionally painful for members of the Haverhill PD where she was an officer, and for her family, friends, and all those who cared for her — myself included,” Alex MacMullen, Katelyn Tully’s boyfriend, said. “The incredible stress she endured following the July death of a person in HPD custody created stress and pain for me, her family, and others who were close to Katelyn.”

He added, “As a fellow law enforcement professional, I am stunned by the clumsy and careless manner in which Haverhill police Chief Robert Pistone handled this tragedy, and the inquiry into the July incident. Katelyn was a dedicated officer, a trusted friend and colleague, a beloved daughter and sibling, and a loving girlfriend.”

Gigliotti’s brother-in-law, Shawn Rooney, criticized the city and Police Department following the news of Pistone’s retirement, saying the chief took a lot of heat for placing the seven officers on leave.

“As far as Chief Pistone’s retirement is concerned, we believe that occurred because of the action he took ... which was to place all seven on leave,” Rooney said. “He then received hate mail anonymously, of course ... just by trying to do the right thing and let the justice system play out.”

Rooney extended his condolences to the family of Katelyn Tully.

The chief’s actions came under fire from the police union, prompting the “no-confidence” vote in Pistone, as well as Deputy Chief Stephen Doherty – who is now acting chief – earlier this week.

In a letter published on social media, the union said the decision to take a no-confidence vote came after extensive internal discussion, during which members raised concerns about ongoing mismanagement, a lack of transparency, and insufficient support for officers in carrying out their duties. These issues, the union said, have contributed to a leadership environment harmful to both officer morale and public trust and have been “willfully disregarded.”

“Responses from department leadership have been dismissive, insufficient, and, at times, retaliatory,” the letter reads.

Acting Chief Doherty issued a statement Thursday night saying “the loss of one of our own has left deep wounds, and those wounds are still raw. Our hearts go out to Katelyn Tully’s family, her loved ones, and every officer who continues to carry the grief. I recognize that this tragedy, combined with the daily challenges of policing in today’s world, has placed enormous strain on our officers. Many are hurting, tired, and asking for help. The recent vote of no confidence reflects that pain. I hear it, I respect it, and I take it seriously.”

He added that he would “take meaningful action to support the men and women who protect this city. I will work with city leadership and union representatives and take immediate steps to rebuild trust and stability.”

City Councilor Ralph Basiliere emphasized the need to prioritize the well-being of those most affected by the recent tragedies.

“My principal concern since the events of July 11 has been the well-being of the police officers and the continued delivery of police services,” Basiliere said. “I have confidence in Mayor Barrett’s leadership, knowing that she’ll do the right thing.”

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