Sends sends former school board member's objection to DOE
PLAISTOW — The state Board of Education has reversed its previous decision ordering School Administrative Unit 55 to hold a hearing about a complaint by former Timberlane Regional School Board member Donna Green, and referred the complaint to the state Department of Education for further review.
Green said that she was relieved by the turn of events.
"I have an important complaint," Green said. "So far I've been through one procedural obstruction after another thanks to SAU 55's extravagant use of legal resources. I look forward to my complaint finally being examined on its merits now that the Department of Education is taking it under investigation."
Superintendent Earl Metzler said that he is confident the DOE will also dismiss the complaint.
"I would say this brings yet another political stunt to end by Donna Green with the same result," said Metzler. "She wastes time and money for her own political resume. This was nothing more than a lame attempt to obstruct the work of the SAU."
The complaint process began in July 2017, when Green asked the BOE for a hearing about her complaint against SAU 55 — which encompasses the Hampstead and Timberlane school districts and shares a superintendent — claiming that the SAU violated state law in regards to setting salaries for employees.
Specifically, Green questioned the legality of the June hiring of Business Operations Coordinator Thomas Geary, arguing that the SAU 55 board did not set Geary's salary, as is required by state law.
Because this issue was not discussed at the local level first, the BOE dismissed Green's initial request for a hearing until the SAU 55 board could hold a hearing.
During the Oct. 4 SAU board meeting, the board discussed and dismissed Green's request for a hearing, which then prompted Green to file a new request with the BOE.
The SAU's attorney followed by filing a motion to dismiss the complaint, citing a lack of jurisdiction.
While the state hearing office recommended that the BOE dismiss the case because of jurisdiction, at their Jan. 11 meeting, the BOE decided to hear the case and ordered the SAU to hold a full fact-finding hearing on the issue.
The SAU then filed an appeal with the state.
On Feb. 14, the BOE rescinded its decision about the SAU hearing, and referred Green's complaint to the DOE for further review and investigation.
Metzler said the SAU attorney is following up with the DOE to understand the next steps and how to file an appeal.
221 comments:
1 – 200 of 221 Newer› Newest»Mark my words, most corrupt politician in this town, Jason Grosky!
Kind of hard to mark the words of someone who hides behind the label anonymous.
And the dumbest politician is Billy Baldwin thinking he can be chief. He's probably holding a squirt gun to Spineless Spero's head to intimidatie him into running for selectmen. Both big dummies hanging off the puppet strings of miserable ignoramuses in this town who play on blogs all day.
6:14 look up hypocrite in your dictionary.
Oooooo, I'm so burned by that comment 1046. I'm so impressed you know what a dictionary is. Maybe you can show Baldwin and Spero how to use it.
A retired Tewksbury police chief contracts his services, such as internal police conduct investigations and promotion testing, to other police departments around the state, including Methuen, but a 2004 memo calls into question the former chief's handling of his own in-house internal affairs investigation.
The dispatcher was Donovan's brother-in-law, Neil McLaughlin.
Donovan, reached by phone Tuesday, at first said he was not involved in McLaughlin's internal affairs investigation "because it was a relative. I wasn’t supposed to have anything to do with it. I talked it over with the town manager and decided I wasn’t supposed to be involved."
He said he assigned the investigation to then-Lt. Dennis Peterson, who oversaw the detectives bureau at the time.
But the memo, listed as from "Alfred P. Donovan, Chief of Police" to "I.A. File" regarding Neil McLaughlin and "serious misconduct," stated that Donovan had "reviewed the reports and citizen complaint in regard to the above referenced complaint and find that there is 'insufficient evidence' to either prove or disprove one of the allegations and I also find that the more serious allegation of misconduct was unfounded."
When the memo was read to him Tuesday, Donovan said he did not remember the particulars. "It was a long time ago," he said.
Peterson, now deputy chief of police at Merrimack College, declined to comment.
Most general best practices and standards recommendations urge police to avoid conflicts of interest, or the appearance of conflicts of interest.
"Particularly with a family member, I think any reasonable person would claim that on its face is biased and not objective," said Chris Harris, an associate professor of criminal justice at the University of Massachusetts Lowell's School of Criminology and Justice Studies. "Civilian personnel are a bit different. They're typically police employees, but they’re not sworn officers. But even still, the idea that the chief would engage in that seems odd, and certainly not in line with most standards."
After he retired from Tewksbury police in 2009, Donovan founded two companies, and almost immediately began contracting out his investigative services.
Donovan owns APD Management Inc., a company that performs internal affairs investigations for police departments. He also operates Internal Testing LLC, which conducts police promotional testing, with former North Andover police Chief Richard Stanley, whose address listed with state corporate documents is in North Andover.
Both companies have had contracts with Methuen Police Department. APD Management has an ongoing contract dated Oct. 2, 2012, to conduct professional standards investigations, which is synonymous with internal affairs investigations, for $80 per hour.
Internal Testing had a one-time contract dated April 25, 2014, to conduct a one-day assessment testing center for a promotion to sergeant and a promotion to lieutenant for a total of $9,800, and currently has a standing contract, dated Aug. 1, 2015, to provide assessment centers for promotions to sergeant, lieutenant and captain for specified rates.
Methuen police Chief Joseph Solomon said the APD contract was awarded after a bidding process in which it met all of the department's criteria. On top of that, Donovan had completed rigorous FBI training, New York Police Department internal affairs training and conducts internal affairs investigation training for the Massachusetts Police Institute, which is associated with the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association.
Solomon said on Thursday that he did not know about Donovan's handling of McLaughlin's internal affairs investigation, but it would not affect the contracts Donovan's companies have with the department.
Could someone tell me why APD cruisers are always in Londonderry get service done to them. Is DH and DH or C&D Auto or Buntings so bad we can't keep the business and the cops in town? Please explain?
They go to A&C Tire...
Al retired
Consentino and Sapia out again. Good. Who is Greg Spero? Heard the name but what does he stand for?
PLEASE POST
JOB POSTING NOTICE
Job Title: Police Chief
The Atkinson Police Department is currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced Police Executive to fill the position of Police Chief in our organization.
About the Town and Police Department:
Atkinson is conveniently located 45 minutes from Boston, 35 minutes from Manchester, and 40 minutes from Portsmouth and the Maine border. Drive time to the beach is 30 minutes. The Town of Atkinson consists of 11.1 square miles with a 2010 census reporting the population at 6,751.
The Police Department consists of 16 sworn officers (6 full time and 10 part time), 2 civilian dispatchers. Officers respond to approximately 7,000 calls for service while averaging 90 arrests and over 400 reportable incidents per year. The Atkinson Police Department is a progressive, professional law enforcement agency dedicated to providing superior service to our community.
Eligibility Requirements:
• Master’s Degree preferred but minimum requirement of a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement or related field.
• • Must be at least part-time police certified through N.H. Standards & Training, or obtain certification within six (6) months.
• • Experience as Police Chief, Deputy Police Chief, Captain or Lieutenant preferred and a minimum of 15 years’ experience as a full-time Police Officer.
• Applicants must be able to successfully complete an extensive background investigation, medical, psychological and polygraph examination.
• Applicants employment history must include no sustained disciplinary suspensions in last ten (10) years and candidate shall not be on the Laurie List.
• Applicants must be willing to perform duties and responsibilities of a working Police Chief.
• Applicants must possess a current driver’s license in good standing.
• • Residency in Atkinson not required but must live within 30 minutes of the town.
• • Part-time position (32 hours per week).
• • Chief reports to Board of Selectmen.
• • Mid-June 2018 start date with one-month transition with present Chief expected.
Compensation:
Salary range $75,000 -$80,000
Annual benefits to include 20 vacation days, 5 paid sick days, 5 paid personal days and 12 holidays
Personal use of unmarked cruiser
Health/dental insurance not offered for part-time position
Accumulation of compensatory time allowed
Application Process:
Candidates who meet the qualifications wishing to apply should send a letter of interest and resume to Integrity Testing, LLC @ 1215 Main Street, (Unit #103) Tewksbury, MA 01876 no later than 4 pm on
April 13th, 2018. Successful applicants may be required to participate in a vetting process which may include written interrogatories, phone interview and participation in an Oral Board interview with Selection Committee and/or Board of Selectmen. Send all other inquires to; apdintegritytesting@gmail.com or call (978 836-9220). Complete Job Description will be forward to all candidates upon application submission.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
The
No Laurie cops allowed. So much for your future here Nicolas Fiset. I hope Baldwin is ineligible as well.
Can you believe they are giving this PT Chief (most likely retired guy) personal use of an unmarked cruiser?
Baldwin was fired from Kingston PD for sleeping on the job so he's out.
RIP PVC
I hope not.
Phil was the greatest even though people here tarnished his good reputation, many cronies with skeletons in their closets, Bankrupt frauds,drunkards, thieves & Liars all tried to bring him down, VIVA LA PHIL!!! R.I.P
The greatest what? He was fired for cause and did not have a good reputation and was connected to unsavory people. Get a clue.
@6:05 Drink Mouthwash
Get an education
Phil was the best, would do anything for anybody and helped so many people, so glad all the liars have been exposed for what they said about him.
You are delusional and you'll never be right!
@ 5:54 we are right just look at the great article about Phil in the eagle Tribune, we won because it kills you they didn't trash him like you have for years, go sit in your car and Drink Mouthwash or better yet be like some people who stiff vendors out of money from your business ....we know who you are.
@6:59 The article says it all and never mentions your lies, he did the most for this town then anyone, for you to smear the name of the deceased is against the Lord's teachings and you will pay with Karma, as we all do when we smear people with hate.
He was a bully period! He might have been great back 20 years ago but when a man like this doesn't change with the times he ruins all the good he once did.
karma is what phil got
I think I saw the mouthwash bandit out front of wal mart jiggling a cup for some change. Same old same old. Too bad your cat lady friend wasn't there for moral support. You always support her and her cats
I remember when the APD put cans for cash donations at local stores. The donations were allegedly going to the Senior Fund but no receipts we're produced by the Town to show any in take of money. .
I know a few Deadbeats that Phil tangled with who don't like to pay bills & money owed and ripped people off ,yet they speak ill of him, I'm sure they would hate for people to know who they are, but i know who they are......the wheels of justice grind slowly.
A good man he was, i know several elderly people with no Oil or food who received the good grace of a delightful man, a man who made sure they were safe and sound with heat and food.
Much like people today who like to smear those 'GoodWill Givers" the people who have serious character flaws but lucky for us in Atkinson they have moved on and Atkinson has rid itself of those freeloading swine.
Actually, it was the taxpayers generosity that he took credit for. Moreover, it was the Grants who started the elder assistance program. The conman just took the credit. Talk about a liar. I'm a senior that never got any help when I asked for it when he was in charge.
@8:13 that's not what i said stop pulling the Liberal version of the rope-a-dope
here is what i said:
"A good man he was, i know several elderly people with no Oil or food who received the good grace of a delightful man, a man who made sure they were safe and sound with heat and food"
I could provide evidence that it came from his own pocket and show you and all the minions in here what liars and rumor starters they are?.....frauds and hucksters that's all that's been on this board for years.
The man barely made a salary in his life. Nothing came out of his own pocket. If you have evidence to the contrary, show it. The elderly funds came from taxpayers.
@6:52again stop playing word play we all know money that comes from the Elderly funds comes from Taxpayers', nice try trying to cloud what I say, we are not talking about that fund, we are talking about someone's own pocket.
You said the money came from his own pocket.
You wrote: "I could provide evidence that it came from his own pocket and show you and all the minions in here what liars and rumor starters they are?.....frauds and hucksters that's all that's been on this board for years."
Put up or shut up. Evidence please.
Post your real name and address...here and then i will post mine.
Put up or shut - up.
Right. You owe us the proof that you offered that the conman gave his own money first. You started it, put up.
Please let Phil rip, there is more of an unethical and corrupt con-man running the PD now than Phil ever was, and we bow down to him.
Shine a light on the darkness. What's up?
Ha ha all in time, when Channel 5 comes knocking I hope someone answers.
Hey anyone want to get a six pack and go drinking in the woods?.....What you would rather go drinking in a classroom at the Academy, oh Jason you are such a rebel........
Is he still doing that? Lock him out! He has no right to be there off school hours. Timberline owns that property. Where's Metzler?
Hey Jason, was your little bro coming from the Academy this evening?
SEABROOK — A Newburyport man will be arraigned next week in Superior Court on charges of criminal trespassing, criminal mischief and driving while intoxicated after driving his car onto property owned by the Seabrook Station nuclear power plant over the weekend, according to police.
Aaron K. Grosky, 36, of 15 58th St., No. 2, was arrested early Sunday when he damaged a front gate with his car, according to Seabrook police.
At no time was the public in danger since Grosky stopped well short of the reactor, according to officials.
"He wasn't close," Seabrook police Detective Scott Mendes said.
It was shortly after midnight when police officers Richard Hines Jr., Ryan Kane and others were dispatched to the power plant after receiving word from security officers about a reckless driver.
Grosky made his way onto plant property and wended through a series of serpentine-arranged barriers aimed at slowing down drivers as they approach the security shack.
Along the way, Grosky's car became stuck. As security officers confronted Grosky, he fled from the car on foot and headed toward a security fence.
That prompted local police and security officers to set up a perimeter. Using night cameras, heat-activated sensors and a K-9 police dog unit, officers were able to find him in a grassy, marsh area well away from the power plant.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission spokesman Neil Sheehan said Grosky was never a threat to the plant and did not make it through any of the subsequent layers of security.
"And had the individual sought to enter the protected area, plant security would have quickly intervened. There was no evidence of malicious intent by the individual," Sheehan said.
There are three concentric rings of security at U.S. nuclear power plants, Sheehan said. The first is the owner-controlled area where Grosky was arrested. That area encompasses the entire site.
Next is the protected area, which is a fenced-in, highly secured area where the plant infrastructure is located. And finally, the vital area covers the key structures at the site, including the reactor building and spent fuel pool.
The owner-controlled area is posted as limited to plant employees and authorized visitors.
"But there is nothing to prevent someone from entering it. The individual ran into a barrier in the OCA. The barrier is across an access road or driveway that goes to a more highly secured location that serves as an entrance to the protected area," Sheehan added.
Grosky was uncooperative at first, ignoring verbal commands and refusing to place his hands behind his back. He was eventually handcuffed and brought to the Seabrook police station. There, he was released on personal recognizance.
As a result of his refusal to follow commands, Grosky also was charged with conduct after property damage and resisting arrest or detention. He is due to be arraigned in Rockingham Superior Court on April 20.
Motorists will occasionally drift onto Seabrook Station property, according to Mendes. Periodically, power plant security officers call the station to report a suspicious vehicle.
"But they're usually lost or looking for the beach," Mendes said.
What does this mean? Do you think Aaron Grosky will need a high priced lawyer, or will he just use one that plays one on TV?
Does anyone have a list of the party goers at the Atkinson Academy, along with the Groskys? Hmm does one name begin with Q. Please share the list.
Grosky is a Rockingham Count prosecutor so they'll sweep it under the rug just like they did for Lyons first two duis. BTW, what is going on with his new dui? They should move the case to another county. Maybe someone should suggest it to Seabrook.
Do you think if APD arrested Aaron Grosky they would have had his picture on Facebook and Twitter or would it have been hidden like other "people in the know" who have been placed in custody?
They would not have arrested him to begin with. They would have looked the other way.
No way, not the APD, I hear they are strictly by the book.
they are held to the highest standards (of corruption)
Hopefully that will end when "Mr Clean" finally calls it a career!
I'm just wondering if Ike and Mike aka Harold and Bill F will ever vote against their master this season? Hmmm
This town is pathetic. It's spring in Atkinson, we need change.
What up with the channel 5 prediction? Sumpin' else to worry about? What up?
Crashing a gate at a nuclear power plant could actually be an act of terrorism.
And that would make Mr Grosky, aka my good neighbor, a relative of a terrorist, hmm do you think he will be able to throw out all his terroristic paraphanalia in one 65 gallon barrel?
Kathy Curran is gassing up the Channel 5 van.
This is the GHOST OF PC, many Frauds in here and I know who you are...Bankruptcy's, Stiffing vendors of said Business, Drunkards, Cowards, Liars, Tax Cheats & Felons he who has a glass house should no cast the first stone.
Hell have no fury like a great man ....scorned.
You really should get an education. PC doesn't look very good when his only supporters can't convey their thoughts using good grammar, spelling and punctuation. He was outed for the person he really was, over and over. Move on.
Could someone inform us why the BOS went against King Jason and voted down the current police chief from participating in the nation wide search committee? Inquiring minds want to know? Please tell us what blemishes Brackets reputation????
He leaving, he's not a resident, he has had sketchy problems in his career. The real question is why would Jason want to include him?
Heard rumors that he got caught. Is that why he is retiring? Deja Vu? More Karma?
It was great to see a new Sheriff in town last night, kind of took a little wind out of the arrogant Mr Grosky.
Didn't it look like Mr Grosky got caught with his hand in the cookie jar when he was denying any knowledge of "if the circumstances have changed"?
Circumstances?
Hampton Police Log from Seacoast
July 31, 2002
Aaron K. Grosky of Bradford, Mass., was arrested on Ocean Boulevard and charged with prohibitions.
Police Log
Seacoast August 11, 2000
Plaistow Police Logs
Arrested Aaron K. Grosky, 18, of - Cottage Place, Bradford Mass. on charges of being a minor in possession of alcohol and being a minor transporting alcohol. He was released pending a court appearance Sept. 7.
Rest in peace Mrs. Grant. Your dedication to education and society is recognized by many in the community. You and your family were fundamental to the initiation of the Elder Affairs service in Town, originating as a BSA project. My thoughts are with Ken, your sons and family and your many friends. Thank you for your service.
RIP Mrs. Grant
I hear Chief Al Brackett is on the committee to select a new Chief. Greaat. The officers hate him and his past is questionable. When will this Town move on to forming a better pd?
The decision still will come down to the BOS, I'm sure Al will bully his way thru the committee of "those that have no clue" and choose who he wants, but they have to give the BOS three names, this will be where we see who is truly running the BOS....Billy v Jason must see TV.
This is Billy's chance and I hope he does us good.
Why is it the boys in blue are always at Eggies? Is it cause they are watching the flow of traffic from the Lewis Apartments for rif-raf or are they watching their electronics devices thanks to Eggies WIFI? There has to be speeding cars in other parts of town
Billys screwed us already want to give him another shot? The quality of the applicants are on another level than Billy.
Long as they're on a higher level than Al. Which doesn't mean much.
So post the information on the other applicants so we can judge for ourselves. Some insider is posting at 5/17:5:15 am. And is Billy applying? What about his getting fired from Kingston?
Bill never fired, Bill for Rockingham County Sheriff
The swamp at Timberline is getting a good look at.
#1 candidate got the job, by a 4-1 vote welcome Chief Crowley! Atkinson will love you and welcome you with open arms as they wave bye bye to Brackey.
BTW who voted against the new Chief? hmmmmmmmmmmmm
Does anyone have a box of tissues for Mr Grosky?
Doesn't he wear sleeves?
“I expect Chief Crowley will be the silver lining to the parade of antics pulled by some board members through this search. In spite of the process, I am confident he will be a fine chief and serve Atkinson well,” he said Thursday.
Union Leader quotes Jason Grosky.
Now, what antics are you referring to?
Any chance someone could cut and paste Selectman Grosky's calling out of the entire BOS on facebook? I'm sure inquiring minds would love to read the Gospel according the Jason.
Where can it be found?
Where was Mr Grosky last night? He must have been home still crying....
I tried but it has too many words for this Blog, would you like it in a few pieces?
Serving in local government is sometimes an issue of straight numbers, oftentimes budget figures and votes.
For the Atkinson Board of Selectman, sometimes it’s just a matter of being able to count to three. And when it came time to pick a new police chief, it appears the numbers were counted and decision was made before the vote even happened.
When the Board scheduled last Tuesday evening’s selection meeting, it announced that it would discuss the candidates in a non-public session and come out and make a public vote. But once the meeting started, a change to the plans was announced by Selectman Bill Friel.
Claiming transparency, he said he reviewed the three finalists and wanted to deal with the issue right then and there. He said he did his homework, knew what he wanted to do, that no one was going to change his mind and he didn’t want to try to change anyone else’s mind.
And with that, Friel motioned to conditionally offer the chief’s job to Lowell Police Capt. Tim Crowley. And as a backup, he moved that Frank Mancini, a Boston Police superintendent, get the job if Crowley fell through for whatever reason.
Friel’s motion was quickly seconded by Greg Spero, “for discussion”, though Spero did not discuss the motion or say anything specific about the candidates. In fact, no one said anything specific about any of the candidates – no pluses, no minuses – except for me.
Imagine that? A process to pick a new police chief and no one has anything to say about any of the candidates. Even Friel, wanting Crowley as chief, gave zero explanation as to why and what made Crowley his guy.
Why? When you know how to add to three, you don’t need to put in that kind of effort. But doesn’t the public, the residents have a right to know why Crowley is being put forward for chief? Again, if you can count to three, I guess you don’t need to put in that kind of effort.
Friel knew how to count to three, and he knew how to count to three before walking in the room that night. Spero said nice non-specific things about the three candidates and the process, as did Selectman Bill Baldwin. Neither of them gave any explanation for the vote that was about to happen.
So when the vote was called, the Voting Triumvirate of Friel, Baldwin and Spero all said “aye” – 1+1+1=3. The fourth selectman, Harold Morse, hesitated. Where the majority already cast its vote, Morse belatedly put up his hand. The vote went 4-1. Tim Crowley is in line to become the next Atkinson chief.
Nothing that I say is meant to be any kind of knock on Chief Crowley. I knew his name before this process and have heard nothing but good things. He has the qualifications and experience to be a fine chief for Atkinson. And after the vote was done, I called him that night to offer my congratulations and explain that my vote was not a vote against him. My no vote was because I would have voted for Rob Morin, the deputy chief of police in Salem, to become the next chief.
Nothing that I say is meant to be any kind of knock on Chief Crowley. I knew his name before this process and have heard nothing but good things. He has the qualifications and experience to be a fine chief for Atkinson. And after the vote was done, I called him that night to offer my congratulations and explain that my vote was not a vote against him. My no vote was because I would have voted for Rob Morin, the deputy chief of police in Salem, to become the next chief.
I won’t use this writing space to go on about Rob Morin. That’s because I clearly explained myself – and was the only selectman to do so – the night of our vote on chief. In my mind, Morin was the best choice. I know the qualifications and abilities he would bring as chief. A board of selectmen is not a quasi-judicial board. Members bring a range of views and opinions to every issue. Bias exists in much if not all of what we decide. I was not unbiased, and acknowledged so.
Friel said to me during a public meeting as of late, when I protested the Board’s action on something, that I was upset about being in the minority, about coming out on the short side of a vote. And as the voting bloc of Baldwin-Friel-Spero marches on, when I disagree, that does leave me in the minority. When it comes to making principled, reasoned, explained decisions, I have no problem being in the minority, and no problem standing alone. It’s not a lonely place.
I’ve always been pretty good at math, but I’m not out trying to arrange votes and make decisions before-the-fact. When it came to picking Atkinson’s police chief, as I told the public, I did nothing to lobby or push for Rob Morin or anyone else in the process. I did not contact our search committee to talk anybody up or down, and did not contact any selectman before the vote to give my input. I was absolutely hands off, aware of both perception and the right thing to do, as I’ve worked with Morin for almost a decade.
Can everyone on the Board say that? The search committee was picked by Friel, and he got the Board’s okay including mine. We had three great people on the committee – Fire Chief Murphy, Principal Dayotis from the Academy and activist Charlie George, a former selectman. Police Chief Al Brackett should have been on the committee from the start, but he wasn’t, after Friel wildly made accusations against me and Chief Brackett before the process even started. Check the minutes from February if you want more detail on that one.
From early on, I expected to get some flak should Rob Morin advance due to my working with him, but was surprised to see how often that was used to deflect from what was really going on – that the chairman of the Board of Selectman was trying to position himself to become chief of police. Yup, Bill Baldwin, selectmen’s chairman, a candidate for Atkinson police chief, a position to be decided by the Board of Selectmen he sits on.
Gripes against me, and unfair shots taken at Chief Brackett, were used to give shade to what was really going on – that Baldwin was angling to become chief. Where the chief is an employee, I felt hamstrung about how far I could push the issue in public. But to those who closely follow our meetings and the issues, there was enough flavor for what was going on. And all the while, Baldwin kept his seat on the Board during chief discussions.
Remember when the search committee asked the selectmen to add Chief Brackett to their committee? I had no idea at that point that Baldwin was a candidate. I presumed, based on qualifications, he did not even apply for the job. Baldwin and Spero missed the first meeting about putting Chief Brackett on the committee. So the decision fell to me, Friel and Morse. Friel asked to discuss the matter in non-public. It appeared Friel knew more than I did, that Baldwin was a candidate.
Baldwin has acknowledged that he and Chief Brackett do not have a great working relationship. Friel doesn’t want to put Chief Brackett on the search committee because of a potential conflict – that Chief Brackett would be giving input on Baldwin’s chance to become chief. The Board voted 2-1 against putting Chief Brackett on that committee, due to a potential conflict, but it may revisit the issue should the conflict no longer exist. I was the dissenting vote.
The search committee then pared down the number of candidates. So with some candidates passed over, was Baldwin still in the process, or out?
When the Board next met, I sought to to discuss the chief’s search and revisit the committee’s request to add Chief Brackett. Baldwin – going against his past practice – said the chief search was not a discussion item on our written agenda so he wouldn’t allow the discussion unless the Board overruled him. The Trio stood together again – Baldwin, Friel and Spero shooting down my attempt to resolve our committee’s request.
I tried another motion – to ask the Town Administrator whether the “conflict” was still a live issue or done – meaning is Baldwin still in the process or out. Of course, it wasn’t public knowledge at that point and I did not come out and say his name, but everyone in the room knew that the guy running the meeting and blocking the discussion was the very person we were talking about.
Again, the Baldwin Trio buried the issue. The vote went 3-2 to block me from learning whether the conflict was a dead issue. And Spero continued to publicly ask, as if he didn’t know why Chief Brackett wasn’t on the committee to begin with.
The next evening, the search committee sent us an email saying it suspended the process and canceled scheduled semi-finalist interviews because the selectmen refused to consider its request to put Chief Brackett on the search committee. The search was halted by the search committee we empowered to screen applicants, conduct interviews and provide us with three finalists.
That next day, a Wednesday, Baldwin sent out an email saying he was calling for a meeting Friday afternoon to deal with putting Chief Brackett on the search committee. I don’t know if others got the courtesy, but Baldwin didn’t contact me to see whether I was available to meet during the Friday workday. I emailed him that I was unavailable and questioned the legality of the chair calling such a meeting. Crickets.
The meeting happened. I got there. And again, the Trio had no explanation for its actions. Nothing to say about the fact it shut me down from trying to sort out this issue days earlier and then had to call a sudden Friday afternoon, workday meeting to deal with the very thing they just punted o. They didn’t even want to acknowledge that the search committee forced its hand.
So with that, Chief Brackett was added to the committee. He replaced Alan Phair, our town administrator who was the fourth member and our committee liaison. Yet, still no acknowledgement from Baldwin and about his role, though it was announced that this publicly undisclosed “conflict” was no longer a live issue. It wasn’t until moments before we chose a chief last week where it was publicly disclosed – by Friel, not Baldwin – that Baldwin had been a candidate for chief. Baldwin’s now back to being a candidate for sheriff.
This chief’s process was by far the most difficult, complicated issue I have been involved during my time on the Board. It was not clean. There was a lot of misdirection, false accusations and a lack of actual transparency.
In spite of the process, I expect Chief Crowley will be a silver lining and am confident he will be a fine chief and serve Atkinson well. I hope he can carry on the accomplishments of Chief Brackett and bring Atkinson Police further along. I expect he will set the example for leadership. We need more of it.
Interesting. Apparently the BOS doesn't know they have a Conflict of Interest Committee, elected same as you all, to guide you through the nonsense and problems you self generate. Pathetic!
Grosky. Your friend in the Salem PD was running, a person you admit you know through your primary job as a County Prosecutor. BTW, you are a selectman and your position controls the PD who employ your County office for services.
What part of this don't you get? You criticize Friel and Morse and others yet you have also supported Bracket, a police chief who pays and uses your County attorney office. Your BOS also employs Plaistow PD who employ your County Attorney Office. How twisted need this get before you realize that you are too conflicted to sit in your day job or your night job and given your lack of good judgement, any public office.
Baldwin. You were running and selecting a candidate? Really? You work for the Atkinson Town, the Plaistow PD who is a subcontractor to the Town and you are applying for a job that you have control over? I still can't believe you double dipped for town wages and military pay.
Bracket is not a popular person from way back. He doesn't live here and shouldn't have a say in anything. His history is shady and good riddance.
Jason, get a real job if you can.
Only thing that is untrue about the above post is Grosky does not work for the County he is employed by Salem PD as their prosecutor just like Atkinson employs its' own lawyer as well.
Not true. He is paid by the RCAO and they are paid by the Town or towns he represents. Same as with Atkinson. Check your Town Report Vendor List.
IMHO, Grosky is accusing the other selectmen of violating open meeting laws and collusion.
I don't get why anyone thinks bracket should be part of the hiring process. Why would he care, he doesn't live here. It sounds like he wanted to get a buddy a job.
ANON 823, you are exactly correct. The purpose of a citizen committee is to get the input from a diverse group of citizens. Putting Brackett on the committee was nothing more than a bullying technique, but in the end justice prevailed and we got the best man for the job.
I'm skeptical. We've had decades of police corruption by a few bad apples. I'd love to see it end but it's part of the culture here.
The thugs have been quiet since he passed. No more protection and payola is my guess. And all the enablers pretending everything is good. What a scheme.
bye bye buckethead
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/raid-of-the-day-bruce-lav_n_3390584
Read about Brackett before he goes. Someone tell the uninformed Grosky to get with it.
Long bad history in the APD. How's the new one?
Where is he going in his retirement?
I read the book Rise of the Warrior Cop. It should be on the reading list for Timberlane.
Bye Bye Brackett, any chance you could autograph this article for me before you leave?
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/raid-of-the-day-bruce-lav_n_3390584
This is a must read!!!!!!!
Where is headed? I may want to send a Christmas card.
Is it true the town escaped any law suits while Bracket was at the helm?
Interesting question. He just left so time will tell.
bracket did a great job cleaning up Atkinson. especially the crazy cat lady, no cats in jail for 10 days. boo hoo. good riddance to the cat lady and thank you bracket! enjoy retirement
Now that Constinkino is dead and buried, how will the local criminals get on? No more payola, no more get out of jail free cards. Bracket was just another misfit passing through.
Why do you continue to harass this woman? She has no cats, didn't go to jail and was the victim of stalking and bullying by her neighbor.
as much as she was a crazy neighbor Brackett and the crew set her up, did anyone read that great article about how corrupt our former chief was and does anyone ask the question what he had on Friel to be handed the job? At least Crowley had to make it thru a nation-wide search.
She not crazy, far from it. We all heard the constant noise over here until that white house was sold. I think it was a setup too based on the history but if you know it was and don't speak up then you're just as corrupt.
So how's Crowley? Will he keep the Laurie cops or get rid of them? This will tell us all about his character and motivation. God help us.
What's he got on Friel?
This blog is a crazy read.
Curious what ever happened to the DUI cop, Lyons. Anyone?
Still waiting for his day in court...….
And when and where is that? Interesting that we never hear much about the cops when they commit crimes. Swept under the rug.
Why do you call Bracket corrupt? What did he do?
The list is very long...…… not sure this blog allows that many words
Have you seen some of the windbags on here? Do tell.
http://www.unionleader.com/public-safety/ag-releases-list-of-171-nh-police-officers-on-laurie-list-due-to-credibility-issues-20180801......Getting Close....
Wouldn't it be hilarious if Bracket was on the Laurie List.
Funnier that his 2nd is and poor Crowley inherited him
We need a local ordinance against hiring Laurie cops since our fearless leaders don't get it.
The list shows the Town that put them on the list. Fiset was bagged by Plaistow. I heard Lyons was bagged in another Town, not Atkinson. If I'm correct about Lyons, then we have someone else that is a Laurie. Anyone?
Apd has had an entry on the list for years. Who?
Bracket is as pure as the wind driven snow. No proof in these lies.
And chickens have lips!
No facts no proof. He wins.
Did he turn in his badge, gun, uniform, car, computer and phone before he left? Did Crowley change the locks, key code and disable his email and account?
How is it that lying corrupt cops get to hide their lying stinking behavior from the very public they serve? They don't serve the public, they serve each other and themselves behind their blue wall of silence. Atkinson has tolerated the stinkers for decades because those who know say nothing, do nothing.
http://indepthnh.org/2018/07/26/contracts-reveal-chiefs-routinely-purge-disciplinary-records-from-police-personnel-files/
Corruption runs deep in our countries veins. From the FBI,DOJ,CIA and even down to the small country towns leaderships. This has been happening for decades.
It doesn't make it right and it gets worse when it's ignored.
Are there pending lawsuits?
Interesting link.
https://www.themarshallproject.org/records/605-blue-wall-of-silence
Attention potential criminals to the area, avoid the section of town between the Community Center and The Real Estate Office, I hear there is a free wifi signal in the area.
Holy shit! Thank goodness NO-KNOCK has left WOW!!
Who did the diligence on NO-KNOCK to hire him in the first place???
WTF??
there was no diligence, there was no nation-wide search, simply a backdoor deal between him and friel
What got him on Laurie? The no knock?What was the deal for Friel?
What is the purpose of complaining if you don't expose the facts? Vague allegations and bullying but no facts that can be proven. I don't understand why this blog continues to respect anonymity yet the bloggers won't reveal details. My conclusion is that the bloggers are happy with the status quo in the corrupt Town of Atkinson NH.
Anyone ever see the door to Friel's wine celler?
Where did it come from?
Jury awards $289M to man who blames Roundup for cancer.
Dangerous chemical linked to lung and breast cancer. Don't expose yourself or your family to it.
Strange that AB gave his notice less than a year into his three year contract.
Inquiring minds should be asking a lot of questions about AB and why he left....
Was he in some kind of trouble?
If it's true that he had control of Friel then it wasn't the Town that got rid of him. Grosky was in his corner too. Hell, Grosky was for PVC so what does that tell us.
The Town won't move in a possitve direction unless we shine a light on the darkness.
Maybe someone with a curiosity and some free time could head up to Brentwood and see if Atkinson or Bracket are involved in any lawsuits. Post results so we can see.
Do you think the only female officer that used to work here had anything on Brackett or the other boys?
Her skin was very tough, nothing could rattle her
Don't you mean she had thick skin, she had to working with AB and the Lawrie sisters.
I hear she had quite a lawsuit but chose to be a good soldier and just ignore and escape. She would be very good to talk to.
"Do you think the only female officer that used to work here had anything on Brackett or the other boys?"
Paige Booth? She let them use her to arrest the cat lady. She won't get too far with obstruction on her resume. Maybe she should turn states witness and redeem herself before it's too late.
5 years after the Conman got fired and we're still dealing with the aftermath. He fooled lots of people and hired those of like mind (his). Hopefully, this new one is honest and ends the corruption.
Why did AB set her up?
AB set her up cause he is a bully. If there was a bullying class he would be the teacher.
What every bully needs is to be put in his place.
his place should be out of law enforcement for good, never to wear another badge....
The culture here is to shut up and look the other way so that's not likely to happen.
Interesting that no one is defending Brackett here.
Don't forget we still have Laurie List cop Fiset slinking around the town. The long history of hiring dishonest people is a problem that should be corrected.
When you have corrupt and dishonest people doing the hiring, how can it stop?
Stop voting for corrupt dishonest people or people with connections to state and local agencies or doing business with the town. Thats everyone but Spero I believe.
At least Brackett didn't get fired before he retired like some other Chief. He left of his own free will.
Is AB hanging around the PD to clog up the leaks at city hall?
Maybe he's under investigation.
Got leaks? Awesome. We need more leaks. Open the dam.
The dam will be open soon.
Has he returned his town computer yet?
Why would he , he is still calling the shots.....
Oh really 813? How do you know? Please share your insight with the readers of tis blog...
Jason you are so intent on finding the leaks, what about the leaks in your circle of friends that dimed you out for drinking with your friends inside the classrooms of Atkinson Academy?
ooooops sweep sweep, ty Kathy ty earl and of course ty Al....
Let's see if I have the story straight. AB is on the Laurie List, JG would know as a prosecutor and backerupper of AB. Someone leaked the should be public information, but isn't, and they are looking for an a$$ to fry.
Jason could lose his job if this was leaked and true. Any witnesses should tell the AG.
Does Crowley know his Selectman was drinking on school property and it was covered up by the former and current administration? Great way to start a job by making a major bust.
#crowleyisnoconsentinoorbrackett
AB gave up his power when he quit LE.
Hey 836, you would think he gave it up but from what I hear from very reliable sources, he is still pulling the strings #callhimgeppetto
a clear reason why not to vote for chuck masssahos for Sherriff...….
“The right choice for Rockingham County Sheriff
The Republican race for Rockingham County Sheriff has three candidates for this important elected Constitutional Office. Although all three candidates have experience in law enforcement only one has experience as a member of the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office and possesses the knowledge, skills and ability to effectively lead the Office as High Sheriff. That candidate is republican Chuck Massahos of Salem.
Chuck Massahos has over 40 years of successful business experience, he is well known as an honest, loyal, and dedicated person committed to doing the right things for his community. He has the support of the current High Sheriff Mike Hureau, the Deputy Sheriffs within the agency, many others in law enforcement and solid support throughout Rockingham County.
As a 42 year veteran of law enforcement I know what qualities an individual must possess to lead the Sheriffs Office. Chuck Massahos has those qualities and the ability to effectively lead the Sheriffs Office. Chuck Massahos is the clear and right choice for the next High Sheriff of Rockingham County.
Al Brackett
Retired Chief of Police”
Hey lmj11083, I didn't forget you, I have plenty for you, all in time.
Hey Al, will you be making a comeback if your personal mechanic wins the election? #freeoilchangesforall
There are reward$ for doing the right thing for the public good, with proof of wrong doing.
APD uses Massahos' gas station to gas up the cars! I guess AB can get back into the Sheriff's office if his buddy wins the election.
Has anyone pointed Tim to this blog?
Hey Baldwin, use the dirt against Massahos. Your own former Chief campaigns against you
All these rumors are strange. Was he forced out? Is he on the Laurie List? Why so much secrecy if there's a story here?
There are so many stories just waiting to come out...….
not sure how many readers the blog has but at least we know the 5 BOS read it...… #theyhavenoclue
Does anyone here have their cars serviced at Londonderry Ford?
The town report shows they use Londonderry BP (why drive so far for gas?), The inn at East Hill farm (Troy NY mind you) and other questionable vendors.
Who cares? Small town BS is all. Don't waste our time on this drivel.
Did Atkinson ever get a cell tower for the communication problem? How do they handle radio calls from the field?
BOS take another night off?
#slapintheface...….Nice of Mr Grosky to pose at the Atkinson polls with Mr Massahos, should make for a very, that should insure peace and tranquility on the Board.
the PD and the county attorney want him so I don't. One big corrupt rigged system of bullys.
I don't see any cuffs on any ABs or JGs. You got nothing but a vendetta.
AB should start shining his boots, he is coming out of retirement. His boy won, mark my words #onemoreretirementpartyforAl
He just retired, why would he go back to work after such a short time? It doesn't make sense. What am I missing?
The fact that he can't stay away, whatever line of #%*& he gave the BOS for leaving was just that,, if he is not on the command staff at RCSO, I will be amazed.
Lots of fluff no facts.
So he wasn't fired and left on his own. If he was truly on the Laurie List then wouldn't he be fired, or is that a plus for holhold a job in this town?
Brackett was not on the list. Two others are/were, which is baffling to me not sure about you.
Do you think APD will crack the case of who destroyed the stone wall on East/Linbrook, or will the homeowner solve it herself?
It depends on whether they have friends in the PD or not. The town isn't going to change its biased application of the law after all these years.
Some here indicated that Brackett is on the Laurie List and you say he isn't. Sounds like cop and county leaks and the usual blue wall of protection for only the criminals. Non criminals don't need protection. Blue cowards are the root of the problem and they alone are responsible for the fact that it continues.
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