Hopkinton's Current Police HQ

John S. Scuncio, Chief
406 Woodville Road
Hopkinton, RI 02833
Chief@HopkintonPolice.Org

Emergency - Dial 911
Phone: (401) 377-7750
Fax: (401) 377-7755

Historic Images & Information

1757:
Chief History:

Chief George "Bob" Baton

First Cruiser: 1953 Ford CustomLine V8 Flathead 239.4CID 110HP 3 Speed Manual Shift

Nathon Kaye (or Charlie Niles) Paul Lanton, Walt Kenny, Chief Baton

Back: Unknown, Bill Dufour, Tom Stevens, Donald Holland, Mr Ahern Front: Paul Lanton, Joe Picard, Al Cronwell, Charl;ie Niles, Walt Kenny, Chet Bednarczyk Side: Chief Baton, Loren Andrews

Our History

 

POLICE DEPARTMENT HISTORY

The Town Constable was one of great responsibility and honor in Colonial times, for it involved enforcing the laws. Only the most respectable and trustworthy persons were chosen for this office. In order to appreciate this position in that time period, we need to understand what life was like 225 years ago.
The roads were dirt and the houses were few and far between. For a town of Hopkinton’s size, 42 square miles there were three constables, so arguments were usually settled amongst the parties, or a neighbor would intervene. Constables were not used as a Police Officer is used today. They did not jump on their horse to settle a domestic dispute, for example. A Constable would be called out if there were a suspicious death or perhaps a theft. The Constable always worked per order of the Town Council, such as taking individuals to the jailhouse or warning unscrupulous individuals out of town.

On the 7th day of June 1757, the first men chosen Constables of Hopkinton, Daniel McCoon, Ebenezer Burdick and Joseph Reynolds Jr.

The Town Council appointed a special Constable whose duty shall be that of a detective and prosecute in behalf of the Town against all person selling or keeping for sale intoxicating liquors contrary to law in this Town and to complain of or abate all nuisances connected with the sale of intoxicating liquors. 6 December 1880 TC11:12

This was a far cry from the early days of our Town when the Town Council would issue Liquor Licenses to individuals on “training days” for the military during the Revolutionary War. Enough rum and everybody wanted to be a solider.

Constables- George H. Barber, Charles W. Clarke. 3 April 1893 TC 12:7

Constables; George H. Barber, William H. Burdick, John A. Barber, Benjamin F. Smith, Joseph Smith. Constables to arrest and prosecute tramps; George H. Barber, William H. Burdick, William H. Gardiner. Each was earning 10.00 per month.
15 June 1893 TC 12:23

“To the Honorable Town Council of Hopkinton, Report of Police Duty preformed by W.H. Burdick, Police Constable. – July 6, one intoxicated person, sent off the street.
July 26, disturbance suppressed and one intoxicated person sent home. July 27, one disturbance suppressed. Aug. 18, 2 persons intoxicated, sent off the street. Aug. 14 one arrest for assault. Aug. 28 one intoxicated person, sent home. Sept. 3 one disturbance suppressed. Sept. 18 two intoxicated persons sent off the street. Sept. 26 disturbance suppressed.”

As the population increased, more laws were passed, and more Constables were needed to enforce them.

Voted that George K. Thayer be and he is hereby appointed Special Constable – Truant Officer for the ensuing year and that the Truant Officer be paid $25.00 per annum.
1 January 1894 TC 12:41
Ordinance in Relation to Truants

“Each and every minor convicted under Chapter 649 Public Laws of this State shall be committed either to the Sockanosset School for Boys or Oak Lawn School for Girls in Cranston, RI.

Ordinance for Sidewalks

Section 1 – Every person who shall ride, drive or lead any animal or move or trundle any vehicle upon any sidewalk in said town, except light carriages for the conveyance of children, unless for the purpose of necessarily crossing the same or who shall allow any animal belonging to him or under his care to stand on such sidewalk, shall be fined not less than one dollar and not more than ten dollars.
Section 2- All violations of the foregoing section shall be prosecuted by complaint and warrant or by other legal process before any court of competent jurisdiction by the Town Sergeant or any constable or any special constable.

Ordinance in Relation to Drunkeness – 9 October 1896

Any person who shall be found intoxicated under such circumstances as to amount to a violation of decency in any highway, street, alley, lane or any other public place or upon the premises of any other person in this town shall upon conviction thereof, be fined for each and every offense not exceeding ten dollars, or be imprisoned in the Washington County Jail, not exceeding ten days and pay all costs of prosecution and conviction and stand committed in said jail until sentence be performed in all its parts…

Ordinance in Relation to Improper Conduct – 9 October 1896

Any person who shall be found intoxicated or who shall commit any nuisance or who shall be found quarreling, fighting, reveling, or wantonly making a false alarm or cry fire or otherwise behaving in a disorderly or indecent manner in any public street, highway, alley or lane, or upon any of the public lands or place set apart or used for public purposes or upon the premises of any person or corporation in this town, to the disturbance and annoyance of the orderly people of said town, or portion off them or shall aid, incite or encourage the same to be done, shall on conviction thereof be sentenced to pay a fine of not exceeding twenty dollars or be imprisoned in the Washington County Jail not exceeding ten days and to pay all costs of prosecution and conviction…

Ordinance in Relation to the Use of Bicycles and other similar vehicles – 9 April 1897

Section 1. – Every person propelling a bicycle, tricycle, tandem bicycle, or other similar vehicle in any public highway…

Section 2. – In addition to the aforementioned provisions, every person propelling any bicycle, tricycle, tandem bicycle, …shall cause a signal bell, not exceeding two and one half inches in diameter to be attached thereto, to be used for the purpose of giving warning of its approach. Such signal bell shall be capable of being heard when at rest at a distance of not less than two hundred and fifty feet and shall be attached that it can be positively and directly operated by the fingers of one hand of the sides without removing such hand from the handlebar. Such signal bells shall always be sounded with several rapid strokes when ever the rider is approaching any person or other vehicle and shall be used in all cases when there is any danger of collision; and shall also, when using such bicycle, at any time in the evening or night time when there is no moon, cause a lamp or lantern to be attached to the front of the vehicle, which shall be lighted at all times when so used.

Section 3. – No person using any such vehicle shall ride or drive the same at a speed faster than a common traveling pace in any village in said Town of Hopkinton, and in order to retain complete control of such vehicle shall keep one hand upon the handle bar and both feet upon the pedals, except in case of accident or for purpose of braking or dismounting. Every person riding any such vehicle on approaching from the opposite direction any horse, carriage or other vehicle shall observe the established rules of the highways and at a reasonable distance turn out and pass to the right and one passing any horse, carriage or any other vehicle going in the same direction, …shall be passed to the left.

Section 4. – Every person riding or propelling any bicycle, tricycle, tandem bicycle, …upon any sidewalk or public foot walk in said Town on approaching from either direction any person who may be travelling on foot on such sidewalk or public foot walk, shall either turn out and leave such sidewalk at least 75 feet from said pedestrian or dismount and trundle said vehicle until he has passed by said pedestrian.

Section 5 – Any person violating any of the provisions of this ordinance shall, upon conviction thereof, be fined not less than one dollar nor more than ten dollars for each offence.

Constables – George H. Barber, William H. Burdick, William H. Gardiner, Benjamin F. Smith, Frank C. Watson. 2 July 1894 TC 12:67

Constables – George H. Barber, William H. Burdick, William H. Gardiner, Benjamin F. Smith. 1 July 1895 TC 12:67

Constables – George H. Barber, William H. Burdick, William H. Gardiner, Benjamin F. Smith. 6 July 1896 TC 12:67

That a reward of twenty five dollars be and hereby offered for then arrest and conviction of any person who shall willingly break any public or private street lamp or lantern or deface or injure any lamp post in this town. 3 February 1896 TC 12:142

Constables - George H. Barber, William H. Burdick, William H. Palmer, Benjamin F. Smith, George K. Thayer, James Brines. 8 July 1897 TC12:225

Constables – George H. Barber, Benjamin F. Smith, George K. Thayer, William H. Burdick, Elmer A. Smith, Charles N. Richmond, James Brines. 5 July 1898 TC12:273

Constable – Byron L. Kenyon was added to the force 5 September 1898 TC12:281

Constables - George H. Barber, Elmer A. Smith, Byron L. Kenyon, George K. Thayer, William H. Burdick. Special Constables to arrest and prosecute Tramps (and hobos); George H. Barber and William H. Burdick, Special Constables under Sec. 32 Chapter 40 General Law; George H. Barber, Elmer A. Smith, Charles N. Richmond, William H. Burdick, James Brines, Special Constable under Liquor Law; George K. Thayer. 3 July 1899 TC 13:19

“Whereas complaints have been made that the Ordinances of this Town are frequently violated, that such violations are on the increase and that measures should be taken for the enforcement of said ordinances. It is therefore voted and resolved that the Police Constables of this town …are instructed to proceed to enforce said ordinances…and resolved that any neglect or refusal on the part of any Police Constable to enforce any of said ordinances will be considered a sufficient cause for the removal of each Police Constable from his office.” 13 July 1899 TC 13:27

“That the Special Constable under the Liquor Law be and is hereby required to report monthly to this council in secret session as to services performed.” 2 July 1900 TC 13:64

“That Charles P. Eccelston, Police Constable, be requested to report his doings as such Police Constable up to Dec. 31st 1904. 2 January 1905 TC 13:229

The petition in writing of Frank Hill, E. C. Stillman and seventy three other residents…representing that Mr. Patrick William Dougherty is keeping a shop, saloon or place of business in which he permits the use of pool tables in violation of Sec 10 Chapter 104 of the General Laws of the State. And also that said shop or saloon is kept open every night in each week and that it is the resort of dissolute persons and minors. Petitioning this Council to take immediate and prompt action for the suppression and removal of said tables believing them to be contrary to the peace and good order of this community. Voted: That they Town Sergeant of this town be and is hereby required to notify said Dougherty to suppress and remove said Pool or Billiard tables from and out of this town on or before April 29th, 1905. On the first of May, Mr. Dougherty came before the Council for a License for two pool tables for his building situated on Laurel Street. The Council denied the request. 6 April 1905 TC 13:234
On June 19th, it came to the Council’s attention that a John Dougherty was now running the “Pool Hall.” Again the Town Sergeant was sent to have the tables removed by June 22nd.
On March 5, 1906, a petition was brought to the Council with 89 signatures from the citizens of Hopkinton that William P. Dougherty has for several months been keeping and maintaining a public bowling alley on Laurel Street and that the same is detrimental to the peace and good order of the community. The Council immediately passed an ordinance requiring bowling alleys to pay a tax of $25.00 per year.
On the 4th June 1906, it came to the Council’s attention that Walter H. Perrin was operating a “Pool Table Hall.”
6th June 1906, Lewis H. Crandall applied for a Pool Table Hall in the building he had leased from Mr. Dougherty on Laurel Street.
2nd July 1906, it came to the Council’s attention that William E. Tefft’s land was being used for a “Box Ball Alley,” which was immediately suppressed.

(This was the taxpayers first attempt at Economic Development.)

Charles P. Eccelston, George H. Barber were elected constables by the Town Council and in 1905 were paid $8.00 per month. 7 August 1905 TC 13:250

Voted that Police Constables of this Town are required to make report in writing of their doings to this Council on the first Monday of each month . 5 September 1905 TC 13:254

Police Constables – George H. Barber, Byron L. Kenyon, Charles P. Eccelston.
2 July 1906 TC 13:283

In December 1906, the Telegraph Company first petitioned the Town to erect poles for their telephone wires. Communication, however crude would open new avenues for the Constables TC 14:1

August 5, 1907, voted that Herbert Lewis be and is hereby appointed a committee to procure a Jail Cell. December 2, 1907 Mr. Lewis procured one for $105.00, a Bessemer Prison Steel Jail Cell. The expense for fitting up room for Jail cell, $89.24. 6 January 1908 Work & supplies – Jail Cell, Hope Valley, Herbert Lewis, Rent of Town Cell, $108.00, 4 May 1914 $3.00 per month, 6 July 1914, Voted that the Treasurer of this town give a receipt for twenty five dollars in part payment of claim of this town against the Town of Richmond for use of town cell - and said Treasurer is hereby instructed to inform Town Council of Richmond that town of Richmond will be barred the use of said cell until said claim is fully paid. TC14:33:43:45:47:240:242:248

“To the Honorable Town Council…for the annual rental of $36.00, we hereby agree to erect and maintain a building suitable to receive the Town Cell, to furnish fuel for heating the same for a period of ten years. Said building to be located – Mechanic Street near the Wood River Branch Depot. Ernest L. Crandall & Henry H. Crandall 1 November 1915 TC 14:287 Lease of building in which Town Cell is located (Hope Valley) is presented, approved, executed & ordered recorded – Land Evidence Book 30. 6 December 1915 TC 14:289

Police Chiefs – At the December 10, 1934 Town Council Meeting the Office of the Chief of Police was abolished, which put Frank H. Brown out of a job. At a Town Council meeting on 6 April 1936, the Council ordered Mr. Brown to return all property of the Town of Hopkinton while he served as the Chief. TC 17:178:277

Frank H. Brown – July 6, 1925 – December 10, 1934
William L. Kay May 1936 - February 6, 1939
Alroy R. Duprey - February 6, 1939 – December 4, 1950
Charles H. Wright – December 4, 1950 – February 7, 1955
Leo Dufour – February 7, 1955 – 2 September 1958
George Baton – 6 October 1958 – 19 December 1968
Joseph Bridge – 19 December 1968 – 1 December 1969
Walter F. Kenney – 5 January 1970 – 4 December 1972
Paul Kenney – 4 December 1972 – 3 October 1977
Bruch H. Germani – 3 October 1977 – 1 April 1978
Albert W. Fiske – 1 April 1978 – 2 April 1979
Interim Police Chief – Raymond Bader – 2 April 1979 – 4 June 1979
Donald E. McCumisky – 4 June 1979 – suspended May 11, 1981, resigned July 6, 1981
Interim Police Chief – Elwood Johnson – May 11, 1981 – February 1, 1982
John Beatrice – February 1, 1982 – February 23, 1986
George Weeden – 21 April 1986 – 1 January 1997
John Scuncio – 5 January 1997

At the December 4, 1950 Town Council Meeting, Town Council President stated that they had a situation that they had never had before, two candidates for Police Chief.

In a four to one vote, Charles H. Wright was appointed as the Police Chief.
September 2, 1958 TC19:562

Leo J. Dufour submitted his resignation as Police Chief, “effective immediately.”

Deputy Police Chief – Alroy Duprey – December 6, 1937 – February 6, 1939
Charles H. Wright - 1941- December 4, 1950
Leo Dufour – December 4, 1950 – February 7, 1955
Elisha Card – appointed February 7, 1955 but declined.
George Robert Baton – February 7, 1955 – 6 October 1958
Paul Lawton – April 3, 1967 – 19 December 1968
Walter F. Kenney – 19 December 1968 - 5 January 1970
Warren Salisbury – 5 January 1970 – 7 December 1970
Frank Madden – 4 January 1971 – 8 January 1973
Charles L. Niles Jr. – 8 January 1973 –

The following men are appointed Police Constables – Chapter 51 – Section 38 – without pay and not authorized to serve process in civil actions: Clinton Armstrong, Alroy Duprey, Wanton Edwards, Everett Kenney, Octavio Panciera, Earl H. Perrin, Elbert Stanton, Charles H. Wright. TC 18:24 – December 9, 1936

Appointed Police Constables: Joel Russell, and Walter E. Beck TC 18:33 – February 1, 1937

Police Matron Marietta Brown was appointed @ $8.00 per month TC 18:65 – November 1, 1937

Police Chief Kay presents a check amounting to $20.00 for fines for month of December.
TC 18:34 – February 7, 1938

Voted that the Chief of Police of the Town of Hopkinton be and is hereby instructed to cooperate with the Safety Program of His Excellency, Governor Robert E. Quinn. TC 18:105 – August 1, 1938

Town Council Meeting of March 3, 1941 voted that the Town appropriate $20.00 to purchase badges for the Police Constables.

Town Council meeting of April 7, 1941 – voted that all Police Badges and Police equipment be in custody of the Chairman of the Police Committee. Said equipment to be distributed to the several members of the Police Department by said chairman of the Police Committee, upon their filing bond with sufficient surety to the Town Treasurer of the Town. Said bond being conditioned upon returning said equipment to the Police Committee upon the termination of the term of office of any Police Officer, or upon request by the committee.

Bill paid to William H. Goodgeon Co. 18 Badges @1.44 ea $25.92 (1942) TC 19:30

Appointed Police Constables – 1941, Andrew Addy, Leo DuFour, Albert Stanton, Frank Jacobson, Earl Perrin, Joel Perrin, Joel Russell, Thoma Stevens, 1942 - Howard Bishop,
Harry Martin, Elisha Card.

That the Chairman of Local Civil Defense be and is hereby authorized to purchase 18 Night Sticks to be used for Civil Defense. June 1, 1942 TC 19:36

Clinton Armstrong is Chairman of Local Civil Defense

AIR RAID SERVICE AND CIVIL DEFENSE

The following persons appointed to the office of Police Constables to serve in the Air Raid Service & Civilian Defense. January 5, 1942 TC 19:25

John R. Clark, Leon Eldridge, Howard Hoxie, Carlton Irish, Clement Joubert, John Kenney, Clifford Kenyon, Dalton E. Kenyon, Frank Kreyssig, Douglas Mills, Harold Palmer, Peter Panciera, John Peckham, Gordon Perrin, Steven Pukas, Charles West, Robert West, Adam Zegarzewski


At the December 7, 1942 Town Council Meeting TC 19:51 & the December 4, 1944 Meeting TC 19:95

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38, of the General Laws, not authorized to serve Civil Process:

Andrew Addy, Clinton Armstrong, Howard Bishop, John V. Biswurm, Elisha J. Card, Leo J. Dufour, Wanton E. Edwards, Leon Eldridge, Frank Jacobson, Frank Kreyssig, Everett M. Kenney, Harry Martin, Joseph E. Murray, John Peckham, Earl H. Perrin, Steven Pukas, Joel Russell, Elbert Stanton, Thomas Stevens, Robert Stewart, Henry Sullivan, Adam Zegarzewski


Police Constable to Serve in Air Raid Service and Civilian Defence:
At the December 7, 1942 Town Council Meeting TC 19:51 and TC 19:95 December 4, 1944

John R. Clark, Ernest Fowkes, Howard Hoxie, Carlton Irish, Clement Joubert, John
Kenney, Douglas Mills, Frederick Mitchell, Harold Palmer, Peter Panciera, Gordon Perrin, Charles West, Robert West

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council Meeting December 4, 1944 TC 19:95

Clinton Armstrong, Howard Bishop, John V. Biswurm, Elisha J. Card, Leo J. Dufour, Wanton E. Edwards, Leon Eldridge, Frank Jacobson, Frank Kreyssig, Everett M. Kenney, Harry Martin, Joseph E. Murray, John Peckham, Earl H. Perrin, Steven Pukas, Joel Russell, Elbert Stanton, Thomas Stevens, Robert Stewart, Henry Sullivan, Adam Zegarzewski.

Police Constables to serve in Air Raid service and Civilian Defense
Town Council Meeting TC 19:95

Ernest Fowkes , Howard Hoxie, Carlton Irish, Clement Joubert, Douglas Mills, Frederick Mitchell, Harold Palmer, Peter Panciera, Gordon Perrin, Charles West, Robert West

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council Meeting December 2, 1946 TC 19:152

Clinton L. Armstrong, Howard Bishop, John V. Biswurm, Robert G. Bitgood, Elisha J. Card, John R. Clark, Leo J. Dufour, Wanton Edwards, William H. Hirst, Frank Jacobson, Everett M. Kenney, John Kenney, Frank Kreyssig, John J. Hollander, Harry Martin, Joseph Murray, Stephen Pukas, Earl Perrin, John Peckham, Joseph Russo, Joel Russell,
Elbert Stanton, Henry Sullivan, Robert Stewart, Thomas Stevens, Frederick R. Savage Jr, Adam Zegarzewski

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council Meeting December 6, 1948 TC 19:210

Clinton L. Armstrong, John V. Biswurm, Elisha J. Card, John R. Clark, Leo J. Dufour, Wanton Edwards, William Hirst, Frank Jacbson, John Kenney, Ernest O. Maine, Harry Martin, Joseph E. Murray, Frederick R. Savage Jr., Ebert Stanton, Robert Stewart,
Thomas Stevens, John Peckham, Henry Sullivan, Earl Perrin, Adam Zegarzewski,
Kenneth Rathbun, Joel Russell.

On January 8, 1951, Charles H. Wright, Police Chief, was paid 65¢ per hour for 25 hours of duty during the previous month December 1950. He received a mileage reimbursement of 05¢ per mile, 180 miles total.

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council Meeting January 8, 1951
TC 19:286

Clinton L. Armstrong, Wanton Edwards, Earl Perrin, John V. Biswurm, Walter F. Kenney, Kenneth M. Rathbun, Robert G. Bitgood, John E. Kenney, Herbert Russell,
Robert T. Bromley, Frank O. Jacobson, Frederick R. Savage Jr., Elisha J. Card, Paul E. Lawton, Elbert Stanton, John R. Clark, Ernest O. Maine, Thomas Stevens, Roydon C. Matteson, Robert Stewart, Joseph E. Murray, Henry N. Sullivan.

Civil Defense Auxiliary Police – Town Council Meeting February 5, 1951 TC 19:288

Warren Barrie, George R. Baton, Howard Bishop, Alfred Cayer, Chester Dabrowski, Alfred Dufour, Ford Greene, Eugene Jacoinski, Clement Joubert, Robert Kenyon, Walter Reynolds Jr., Joel Russell, Walso Merritt, Thurston Ryder, Potter H. Niles, Charles West,
Harold Palmer, Albert Wood, Frederick Patnoad, Burnside Zegarzewski, John M. Peckham, Gordon Perrin.

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council Meeting February 2, 1953 TC 19:359
Police Matron – Marjorie Brown

Clinton Armstrong, George R. Baton, Howard Bishop, John Biswurm, Robert Bitgood, Joseph Bridge, Edwin Cahoon, Elisha Card, Alfred Cayer, Alfred Dufour, Wanton Edwards, Ford Greene, John E. Kenney, Walter Kenney, Lawrence Kenyon, R. Merritt Kenyon, Dalton Kenyon, Paul E. Lawton, Arthur O. Matson, Roydon C. Matteson, Ernest O. Maine, Harold Palmer, John Peckham, Earl Perrin, Gordon E. Perrin, Joseph Picard,
Kenneth Rathbun, Thurston Rider, John Riley, Walter Reynolds, Herbert Russell, Joel Russell, Frederick Savage, Robert Stewart, Elbert Stanton, Albert Wood.

“Chief of Police Charles H. Wright appeared before this Council and gave a detailed report of his investigations of reports of dice and card games being held at the Finnish Hall, Chase Hill Road. Chief Charles Wright stated that in his belief there are no regular gambling games being held in the Town of Hopkinton. February 2, 1953, TC 2:360

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council Meeting January 3, 1955
TC 19:424

Marjorie Brown – Police Matron

John Algiere John E. Keney John M. Peckham
Clinton Armstrong Walter F. Kenney Earl H. Perrin
George R. Baton Dalton E. Kenyon Gordon E. Perrin
Joseph Bridge Lawrence Kenyon Joseph Picard
John Biswurm R. Merrit Kenyon Kenneth Rathbun
Robert G. Bitgood Paul E. Lawton Thurston Rider
Alfred Cayer Arthur O. Matson Herbert Russell
Elisha Card Roydon Matteson Joel Russell
Alfred Dufour Ernest Maine Frederick Savage
Julius Edwards Charles L. Niles Jr. Robert Stewart
Wanton Edwards Harold Palmer Thomas Stevens
Ford Green Chester Pavelski Raymond Weber
William Green William Peabody Albert Wood

Police Constable added – March 7, 1955 TC 19:431 Harry A. Martin

Police Constable resigns – March 7, 1955 TC 19:431 Harold Palmer

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council Meeting June 6, 1955 TC 19:440

Loren Andrews, David Jordan, Joseph Ulbin

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council Meeting May 2, 1955 TC 19:438

Charles Browning, Roderick Chester, Donald Holland, Charles E. Place, Raymond Ritchie.

Town Council Meeting January 3, 1956 TC 19:461

Voted that the Chief of Police, Leo J. Dufour and the Deputy Chief of Police, George R. Baton be appointed custodians of the Hope Valley Elementary School.

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council MeetingDecember 3, 1956 TC 19:497

Marjorie Brown – Matron

Loren Andrews, Clinton Armstrong, John Biswurm, Joseph Bridge, Roderick Chester, Frederick Corey, Alfred Dufour, Wanton Edwards, Julius Edwards, Ford A. Green, Arthur O. Matson
Donald Holland, Charles L. Niles Jr., David C. Jordan, Earl H. Perrin, Walter F. Kenney, Gordon Perrin, Lawrence Kenyon, Joseph Picard, R. Merrit Kenyon, Chester Pavelski, Paul Lawton, John M. Peckham, Harry Martin, Kenneth Rathbun, Ernest O. Maine, Herbert Russell, Thurston Rider, Raymond Ritchie, Frederic R. Savage Jr., Robert W. Stewart, Thomas Stevens, Joseph Ulbin, Charles H. Wright

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; Town Council Meeting January 7, 1957 TC 19:501

Chester Bednarczyk, Alfred Crowell, Raymond Day, Frederic Savage III, Ivor Johnson,
Donald R. Wells.

Town Council Meeting November 4,1957 19:531

“A request by the Police Department for the use of the typewriter in the Town Clerk’s Office…VOTED: That the use of the said typewriter be granted when not in use at the Clerk’s office and the said Police Department is to keep the machine in good working condition while in their use and to return the same forthwith at the request of the Town Clerk.”

FINALLY – at Town Council Meeting December 1, 1958 TC 19:573

A new Remington Rand typewriter was purchased for the Police Department for $75.00

Paul Kenney said the constables were essentially just a presence. They were respected by most people. They would stop people for speeding, but could just write the incident down on a pad and hand it to the individual. They did not keep a copy, because nothing could be done about it anyway. Constables couldn’t arrest anyone or issue warrants.

Town Council Meeting June 2, 1958 19:555

VOTED: That the pay for the Police Constables for the Town of Hopkinton be increased to $1.25 per hour, to be effective June 1, 1958.

Then made Lt’s.

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council Meeting December 1, 1958
TC 19:573

Police Matron – Katherine Burdick

District 1 District 2

Sgt. Joseph Picard Sgt. Walter Kenney
Cpl. Paul E. Lawton Cpl. Donald T. Holland
1. Joseph Bridge 1. Chester Bednarczyk
2. Raymond Day 2. Alfred C. Crowell
3. Herbert Russell 3. Charles L. Niles Jr.
4. Frederic Savage Jr 4. Chester Pavelski
5. Thomas C. Stevens 5. Kenneth Rathbun
6. Donald R. Wells 6. Raymonf Ritchie

RESERVES –

District 1 District 2

John Biswurm Loren Andrews
Roderick Chester Clinton Armstrong
Frederick Corey Julius Edwards
John Dufficy Wanton Edwards
Alfred Dufour David C. Jordan
Lawrence Kenyon Gerald Sousa
Ernest Maine Walter H. Spencer
Harry Martin Joseph Ulbin
Earl Perrin Charles Wright
Gordon Perrin
Thurston Rider

June 1, 1959 Town Council Meeting - TC 19:599

Bill #6965 – Emory L. Edwards, muffler & clamp for Police car $7.15

In the old days (1950-70) the constables used their own cars with a special plate that stated “Police” that they would place on their cars when patrolling. They bought their own uniforms, guns, and clothes. All calls went to the Police Chief’s house, as there was no police station. There was no communications radio or other equipment, which would make for uncomfortable situations. And they had no experience.

December 7, 1959 TC 19:619

Dear Mr. Tourtellotte and Members of the Town Council:

Too often we hear the complaints and gripes relative to town employees and rarely does anyone compliment people in public positions. I, however, dare to be different and therefore am sending this letter to you to commend the interest, the intelligence and the good work of your local police force under the able direction of the Chief, Bob Baton. Specifically, I would like to commend besides the chief, Paul Lawton, Joe Picard, Ray Day and Tom Stevens. They have been most cooperative and helpful in dealing with a number of problems I have recently encountered in town. I would like this to be spread upon the minutes of your town council meeting inasmuch as a word of commendation is in order for these good men.

Sincerely,
Edward Sullivan, Superintendent

Town Council Meeting August 26, 1968 TC 20:379

“THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION IS PASSED:”

WHEREAS: the Constable Police forces in our Chariho Towns are devoting a great deal
of time and energy towards the improvement of law enforcement;
WHEREAS: These policemen’s efforts lead to increased safety and well being for
Chariho citizens and;
WHEREAS: These policemen receive little and sometimes no remuneration for those
efforts;
THEREFORE; be it resolved that September 2 through September 8th 1968 be declared
Chariho Policemen’s Appreciation Week.

Sergeant Joseph Picard resigns – 29 March 1960 – TC 20:16

Donald Wells be appointed to the rank of Corporal to fill the vacancy caused by the recent appointment of Paul E. Lawton to Sergeant. 5 July 1960 TC 20:24

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council Meeting 1 August 1960 TC 20:26

Howard E. Coon Sr., Frederick Monroe Coon, Warren Salisbury

VOTED: That the pay for the Constables be $1.35 per hour and the pay for the Chief of Police be $35.00 per month. 26 September 1960 TC 20:29

The following list of constables is presented, said men appointed as Police Constables and assigned as active or Regular members: 5 December 1960 TC 20:40

Police Matron – Katherine Burdick

District #1 District #2

Sgt. Paul E. Lawton Sgt. Walter F. Kenney
Cpl. Donald Wells Cpl. Donald T. Holland
Joseph Bridge Chester Bednarczyk
Herbert Russell Charles L. Niles Jr.
Thomas C. Stevens Walter Spencer
Frederick M. Coon Charles C. Wright
Warren Salisbury Gerald Sousa

The following constables are appointed, and assigned as active or Regular members:
Town Council Meeting 7 May 1962 TC20:108 - Leo F. Curry, Fred R. Savage III

The following constable is appointed, and assigned as active or Regular member:
Town Council Meeting 4 June 1962 TC20:112 - Clarence E. Wheeler

The following list of constables is presented, said men appointed as Police Constables and assigned as active or Regular members: 3 December 1962 TC 20:40

Police Matron – Katherine Burdick

District #1 District #2

Sgt. Paul E. Lawton Sgt. Walter F. Kenney
Cpl. Joseph Bridge Cpl. Donald T. Holland
Herbert Russell Chester Bednarczyk
Thomas Stevens Alfred C. Crowell
Frederick Coon Charles L. Niles Jr.
Frederick Savage III Walter Spencer
Charles C. Wright
Roydon C. Matteson

The following constable is appointed, and assigned as active or Regular member:
Town Council Meeting 1 April 1963 TC20:141 - Norman C. Dugas

The following constable is appointed, and assigned as active or Regular member:
Town Council Meeting 6 May 1963 TC20:149 - Arthur M. Cottrell Jr.

The following constable is appointed, and assigned as active or Regular member:
Town Council Meeting 3 June 1963 TC20:152 - Eugene Perrin

Town Council Meeting – 17 June 1963 TC20:152

VOTED: That the Hopkinton Chief of Police be paid $100.00 per month for his regular police services and that the regular Constables pay be $1.50 per hour and that gas for the Police car (notice this states “car”) be purchased at gas stations and bills be submitted to the Council monthly.

Town Council Meeting – 6 April 1964 TC20:185

Donald T. Holland resigns and Luigi P. Abruzzese is appointed in his place

The following list of constables is presented, said men appointed as Police Constables and assigned as active or Regular members: 7 December 1964 TC 20:214

Police Matron – Katherine Burdick

District #1 District #2

Sgt. Paul E. Lawton Sgt. Walter F. Kenney
Cpl. Joseph Bridge Cpl. Alfred C. Crowell
Herbert B. Russell Chester Bednarczyk
Thomas Stevens Walter H. Spencer
Frederick Coon Wilbert Watson
Warren Salisbury Roydon C. Matteson
Charles L. Niles Jr. Charles C. Wright
Norman C. Dugas

Sgt. Paul Lawton had the nickname of “Squawk” Lawton. One Halloween night, in the 60’s, he made the mistake of parking the only police car in a local church parking lot. When he returned it had been covered with molasses and flour.

The following constable is appointed, and assigned as active or Regular member:
Town Council Meeting 3 May 1965 TC20:231 - Frank S. Haberek Jr.

The following constable is appointed, and assigned as active or Regular member:
Town Council Meeting 4 October 1965 TC20:243 - Clifton Woodmansee

The following constable is appointed, and assigned as active or Regular member:
Town Council Meeting 7 February 1966 TC20:263 - David Sherrer Follett

Town Council Meeting: 1 August 1966 TC 20:283

The following letter highlights the problems the Town had with communications:

To the Town Council,

I am sending this letter requesting that you investigate the telephone service we receive in Hope Valley…My phone is a private phone and is out of service at least 30% of the time…I am a Town Policeman, also an ambulance driver. In many cases the Chief of Police has had to drive a mile and a half to reach me as my phone was out of order. On July 25 and July 26, 1966 I was called for emergency ambulance calls and was unable to be reached…

Your Truly, Walter F. Kenney

The following list of constables is presented, said men appointed as Police Constables and assigned as active or Regular members: 3 January 1967 TC 20:304

Police Matron – Katherine Burdick
District #1 District #2

Sgt. Paul E. Lawton Sgt. Walter F. Kenney
Cpl. Joseph Bridge Cpl. Alfred C. Crowell
David S. Follett Chester Bednarczyk
Thomas Stevens Walter H. Spencer
Frederick Coon Wilbert Watson
Warren Salisbury Roydon C. Matteson
Charles L. Niles Jr. Charles C. Wright
Norman C. Dugas

RESERVES –

Benjamin Bliven, Loren Andrews, Arthur M. Cottrell Jr., Luigi Abruzzese
Roderick Chester, Clinton L. Armstrong, Frederick H. Corey, Raymond Bader Jr.
Leo Curry, Louis Clark, William Church, Howard E. Coon Sr., Alfred Dufour
Albert R. Gunther, Lawrence Kenyon, Julius Edwards, Grant Kenyon, William Greene
Ernest O. Maine, Adelbert Jordan, Gordon E. Perrin, E. Lloyd Kenney, Eugene Perrin,
Joseph Pelchat, Thurston Rider, Kenneth Rathbun, Ira Thorpe, Gerald Sousa,
Clarence Wheeler, Charles H. Wright, Leonard Wheeler

Town Council Meeting 6 February 1967 TC20:308

Mr. Nathan Kaye came before this Council to discuss the establishment of a permanent town police department.

Town Council Meeting 7 August 1967 TC20:334

Joseph Bridge appointed Police Sergeant
Charles L. Niles appointed Police Corporal

The following constable is appointed, and assigned as active or Regular member:
Town Council Meeting 7 October 1968 TC20:383 - John L. Lewis

The following list of constables is presented, said men appointed as Police Constables and assigned as active or Regular members: 6 January 1969 TC 20:396

Police Matron – Kay Crider Police Matron – Katherine Burdick

District #1 District #2

Charles Niles Jr. Walter Spencer
Warren Salisbury Charles C. Wright
Frederick Coon Phillip Edwards
David Follett John Lewis
Thomas Stevens Roland Baton
Charles Hammond
Donald Kinney

RESERVES
Lawrence W. Kenyon, Clinton Armstrong, Thurston Rider, Julius Edwards
Gordon E. Perrin, Gerald Sousa, Robert F. Leach, Charles H. Wright, James Murray Jr.
Albert Gunther, Leo Valliere, Howard Coon Sr., Frank Madden

Police Constables under Chapter 333, Section 38 of the General Laws; not authorized to serve in Civil Process Town Council Meeting 7 April 1969 TC 20:408

John A. Marley, Paul Kenney, Albert LaRoche

The following constable is appointed, and assigned as active or Regular member:
Town Council Meeting 17 April 1969 TC20:409 - Ernest O. Maine

Former Town Clerk, Josephine Langworthy, told the story of the first use for the new vault in the Town Hall. On a Friday afternoon before anything was installed inside, it was used to lock up three guys who had been caught growing pot on Tomaquag road. The police did not have anywhere to put them, as the State Police jail facilities were full. The men were locked up for the entire weekend.

Town Council Meeting 5 May 1969 TC20:413 - David Wightman

Town Council Meeting 4 August 1969 TC20:428 - William Champlin

Town Council Meeting 6 October 1969 TC20:437 - Robert G. Langanki

Town Council Meeting 2 March 1970 TC20:463 - Robert Leach resigns

Town Council Meeting 7 December 1970 TC20:511,

Policewomen: Katherine Burdick, Kay Crider

Police are called “regular” constables, which include;

John Lewis, Roland Baton, Paul Kenney, Warren Salisbury
Thomas Stevens, Leo Valliere, Phillip Edwards, Raymond Bader
Charles Niles, Fred Coon, Frank Madden, Donald Kinney, John Marley

Reserves

Clinton Armstrong, Julius Edwards, Albert R. Gunther, James Murray Jr.,
Gordon Perrin, Charles Wright

Town Council Meeting 4 January 1971 TC20:516,

Ernest O. Maine

Resignation – Leo Valliere (constable)

Town Council Meeting 1 February 1971 TC20:523,

David Follett, Joseph Bridge

Town Council Meeting 5 April 1971 TC20:537

Not only was Frank Madden the Deputy Chief of Police, but he was the janitor at the Town Hall, 45 hours per month @ 2.00 per hour.

Town Council Meeting 2 August 1971 TC20:555

There were two bids received for a new Police Car:

Paul Bailey Motors bid - $3,080.00 for 1971 Plymouth Fury.
Seaport Ford of Stonington - $3,083.00 for 1972 4-door Ford Torino. Voted to purchase this one.

Town Council Meeting 28 October 1971 TC20:571

Motion is made that Thomas C. Stevens be appointed a Constable of Hopkinton for life, the term to expire December 31, 1999.

James A. Sheldon appointed Constable.

At the Town Council Meeting of April 7, 1975 [TC21:233] “CHAPTER 37

AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A PERMANENT POLICE FORCE

FOR THE TOWN OF HOPKINTON” was passed. (For entire entry, see Town

Council Book #21)

Police Constables Appointed – TC 21:233 - April 7, 1975 February 28, 1977

Orville K. Davis, Phillip Edwards Jr., Frank Faraone, John Lewis, Thomas Majkut, Charles H. Niles, Richard Page, James Sheldon, Ronald Tefft, Roger Wilson

Police Matron Appointed – TC 21:238 – May 5, 1975 - Kathryn Panciera

Town Council Meeting – TC 21:240 – June 2, 1975

Ralph Ahern Jr. – Reserve Constable
Orville K. Davis – promoted to Lt. and appointed to handle all the Detective work.
Ray Bader promoted to Patrol Commander

Town Council Meeting – TC 21:281 – April 5, 1976

A motion was made to extend the term of service of the present Police Department thirty days, and again on May 3, 1976.

Town Council Meeting – TC 21:324 – August 20, 1976

The duty of a Patrol Officer to oversee a fundraiser for the Chariho Men’s Softball League at a rate of $3.50 per hour to be paid by the league.

TC 21:347 – February 28, 1977

Ronald Tefft – Acting Police Lt. until April 1977

TC 21:366 – September 1, 1977

Ralph L. Ahern – appointed constable – term to expire April 1978
John Boland “ “ “

TC 21:372 – September 19, 1977

The Police Department submitted a request for $2,700.00 for a new radar set.

TC 21:380 – November 21, 1977

The police Department to purchase a two meter FM radio to be used by Civil Defense Radio Officer at the Police Station - $450.00

TC 21:383 – December 5, 1977

Christopher Browning was appointed as a Police Constable.

TC 21:390 – February 27, 1978

Phillips Edwards Jr. appointed as temporary Police Lieutenant.

TC 21:399 – June 26, 1978

The following Officers are appointed to the Hopkinton Police Dept. for the period of one year:

Lt. Raymond Bader, Lt. Phillip A. Edwards Jr., Sgt. James Sheldon

The following Officers are appointed to the Hopkinton Police Dept. until December 1, 1978:

Ralph Ahern Jr., Christopher Browning Jr., John Boland, Frank Faraone, John Lewis,
John Marley, Ronald Tefft

TC 21:404 – August 8, 1978

Charles W. Bachelder - Constable

TC 21:407 – October 2, 1978

A motion was made and seconded to reactivate the Police Commission with the establishment of new responsibilities.

Appoint Police Constables to December 1978 –
Howard Conover, Daniel Bunte, George Joslin

TC 21:410 – November 2, 1978

RESOLVED: That the Hopkinton Town Council commend the Hopkinton Police Department for their accomplishment in maintaining peace and order during the past several days.

TC 21:411 – December 4, 1978

Appoint Police Constables for the ensuing year to December 1, 1979;

Ralph Ahern, Lt. Raymond Bader, Charles Bachelder, John Boland , Lt. Phillip Edwards, Danny Bunte, Christopher Browning, Howard Conover, Frank Faraone, John Marley,
John Lewis, Natale F. Gencarella Jr., Sgt. James Sheldon, George Joslin Jr,

March 3, 1986 – The Town Council placed and advertisement in local papers recruiting a new Police Chief. Salary range $22,000.00 to $25,000.00. Book 23 page 236