Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association

08/07/2026

Another powerful example of why ALPR technology is such an important tool for law enforcement.

In this missing person investigation, ALPR technology helped Rochester Police quickly locate a vehicle, develop critical leads, and narrow the search area. Combined with outstanding police work and tremendous collaboration among local, regional, state, and federal partners, those efforts helped bring a missing person home safely.

Technology like ALPRs, when used responsibly with appropriate policies, oversight, and privacy safeguards, can make a real difference when every minute matters.

This is technology supporting good police work, strengthening investigations, and helping save lives.

07/28/2026

A Message from the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association regarding how to obtain a restraining order:

"Dear Members,

We’re pleased to share a valuable new resource from the Ware River Valley Domestic Violence Task Force: Requesting a Restraining Order – A Walk Through the Court Process, now available in both English and Spanish.

We encourage you to share this resource with survivors, community partners, and anyone supporting someone experiencing domestic violence. It can be shared through the Ware River Valley Domestic Violence Task Force website or embedded directly on your organization’s website using the provided embed codes.

The video walks viewers through the process of obtaining a restraining order at Eastern Hampshire District Court. While it is filmed in that court, the information is applicable to most Massachusetts courts. It covers preparing for court, what to expect upon arrival, appearing before a judge, and what happens after the hearing.

This resource was created in response to survivors who asked for more information about navigating the restraining order process. We appreciate the Ware River Valley Domestic Violence Task Force and everyone who contributed to making this important resource available."

WEBSITE HERE: https://www.waredvtaskforce.org/restraining-order-video--resources---english--espantildeol.html

https://cms5.revize.com/revize/chelseapolice/news_detail_T4_R226.php

07/28/2026

Sharing this valuable new resource from the Ware River Valley Domestic Violence Task Force: Requesting a Restraining Order – A Walk Through the Court Process, now available in English and Spanish.

Created in response to survivor feedback, this video helps individuals understand the restraining order process and what to expect when appearing in court. While filmed at Eastern Hampshire District Court, the information is applicable to most Massachusetts courts.

07/27/2026

A few scenes from today’s MCOPA Jimmy Fund Golf Tournament at Pleasant Valley Country Club!

It’s always great to see so many chiefs, colleagues, partners, and friends enjoying the day together while supporting a cause that means so much to so many families.

We appreciate everyone who continues to support this tournament and the work and mission of MCOPA.

07/27/2026

⛳ Good Morning from Pleasant Valley!

The course is ready and we’re looking forward to a great day at Pleasant Valley Country Club for the annual MCOPA Jimmy Fund Golf Tournament!

Today, members of the MCOPA family, friends, and partners will come together for a day of golf, camaraderie, and support for an important cause.
Looking forward to welcoming everyone shortly. It’s going to be a great day!

07/16/2026

Today, the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association was proud to attend the ceremonial signing of the Massachusetts Blue Envelope legislation at the Charles River Center in Needham.

Representing MCOPA were UMass Amherst Police Chief Tyrone Parham, Arlington Police Chief Juliann Flaherty, and Executive Director Michael Bradley.

This important legislation officially codifies the Blue Envelope Program into Massachusetts law, building on a partnership from April 2024 when MCOPA and the Massachusetts State Police worked together to launch the program across the Commonwealth under the leadership of MCOPA Past President, Agawam Chief Eric Gillis.

The Blue Envelope Program is a simple but meaningful initiative that helps improve communication during motor vehicle stops for drivers on the autism spectrum, promoting safer, more positive interactions between motorists and law enforcement.

We extend our sincere congratulations and appreciation to Chief Tyrone Parham, Chief Juliann Flaherty, and Deerfield Chief John Paciorek for their vision, leadership, and tireless advocacy in advancing this initiative. Their dedication, along with the efforts of many partners and advocates, has helped turn an innovative program into lasting law.

07/15/2026

A Historic Day for Massachusetts Blue Star Families

The Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association was honored to stand with Governor Maura Healey, Secretary Kwon, legislators, law enforcement leaders, and the families of fallen officers as the Blue Star Family License Plate legislation was signed into law at the Massachusetts State House.

Representing MCOPA at today's ceremony were President Chief Shane Woodson, Legislative Committee Chairman Chief Thomas Fowler, and Executive Director Michael Bradley.

This new law is far more than a license plate. It is a lasting tribute to the spouses, children, parents, and grandchildren who continue to carry the memory of their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others.

A special congratulations and heartfelt thank you to Chief Frank Frederickson, representing the Fraternal Order of Police, and John Nelson, representing the Massachusetts Police Association, for their unwavering leadership, persistence, and commitment to seeing this legislation across the finish line. Their advocacy, along with the dedication of many others, made this historic achievement possible.

We are also grateful to Governor Healey, the Legislature, and every family member and advocate who shared their stories and helped make today a reality.

Today was a powerful reminder that while we will never forget our fallen officers, we must also never forget the families who continue to carry their legacy.

💙

07/15/2026

Today is the Day.

Today, Governor Maura Healey will sign the Blue Star Family License Plate legislation into law at the Massachusetts State House, marking a meaningful milestone for the families of fallen law enforcement officers across the Commonwealth.

This legislation recognizes that when an officer makes the ultimate sacrifice, the loss is carried by an entire family. The new Blue Star Family License Plate will serve as a lasting tribute to the spouses, children, parents, and grandchildren who continue to honor their loved one's legacy every day.

As we celebrate this historic moment, we invite you to watch and share this powerful video featuring Caitlin Tarentino, sister of Officer Ronald Tarentino Jr., who was killed in the line of duty. Her story reminds us why this legislation matters and why we must never forget the families who continue to bear the weight of that sacrifice.

The Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association is proud to have supported this effort alongside so many dedicated advocates, including the Massachusetts Police Association, the Fraternal Order of Police, legislators, and the families whose voices helped make this day possible.

Please take a few moments to watch the video, share it with others, and help us honor the families behind the badge.

https://youtu.be/hNpvoEdXmFU

This video highlights the importance of the proposed Blue Star Fami...

07/07/2026

Protecting Our Communities Requires Every Available Resource

The Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association extends its deepest condolences to the family of the Cambridge Public Works employee who tragically lost his life during the July 4 shooting. We also recognize the professionalism and dedication of the Cambridge Police Department and all first responders who responded to this incident.

This tragedy serves as a reminder that law enforcement should be equipped with every reasonable tool available to protect the public and respond to violent crime. Just weeks before this shooting, the City of Cambridge discontinued its ShotSpotter gunfire detection system despite the recommendation of Cambridge Police leadership that it remain in service.

No technology can prevent every act of violence or guarantee a different outcome. However, tools that provide officers with immediate notification of possible gunfire can improve response times, enhance situational awareness, assist in locating victims, and support criminal investigations during the critical first moments of an emergency.

Public safety decisions should be guided by evidence and the expertise of law enforcement professionals. The Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association urges policymakers to work collaboratively with police leaders to ensure officers have the resources they need to protect our communities and respond effectively when every second counts.

The body of a Cambridge city employee was discovered around 5:30 a.m. Saturday near the intersection of Broadway and Norfolk Street.

07/04/2026