West Newbury Police Department Receives Child Passenger Safety Equipment Grant

March 16, 2017 by Jessica Sacco Leave a Comment

WNPD patch copy

West Newbury Police Department
Art Reed, Chief of Police
401 Main St.
West Newbury, MA 01985

For Immediate Release

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Contact: John Guilfoil
Office: 978-971-8101
Email: john@jgpr.net

West Newbury Police Department Receives Child Passenger Safety Equipment Grant

WEST NEWBURY — Chief Art Reed is pleased to announce that the West Newbury Police Department received a Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Equipment Grant this month to expand resources and improve safety in the community.

West Newbury is one of 68 municipal departments that received a portion of the $170,000 CPS grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Highway Safety Division. The police department’s $2,000 allocation will be used to purchase 25 car and booster seats to be distributed throughout the next year. The seats range from infant to 11 years old and will be given to local parents and caregivers in need.

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), traffic crashes are a leading cause of death for all children nationwide. Properly installed car and booster seats have been proven to reduce the risk of death and injury in crashes, yet AAA estimates that 75 percent of car seats are installed incorrectly.

“We are thankful to receive this grant, which will continue to ensure our department is doing its part in keeping children safe,“ Chief Reed said. “For those in need of a car or booster seat, or who need help installing one, please contact the police department. We are here to help.”

West Newbury is one of more than 225 free child safety seat inspection sites in Massachusetts. Officers Michael Dwyer and Eric Forni are certified child seat safety technicians and are available to assist residents.

If you would like to schedule an appointment for inspection, or to install a new car seat, contact the West Newbury Police Department at 978-363-1213.

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Joint Press Release West Newbury Police and Fire Offer Snow Safety Tips

March 13, 2017 by Jessica Sacco Leave a Comment

Monday, March 13, 2017

For Immediate Release

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Joint Press Release West Newbury Police and Fire Offer Snow Safety Tips

WEST NEWBURY — As residents prepare for tomorrow’s storm, Police Chief Art Reed and Fire Chief Michael Dwyer are offering several important tips to best ensure the safety of all.

The West Newbury Fire Department will have firefighters on duty throughout Tuesday, and residents are encouraged to call with any storm-related issues. Additionally, Atlantic Ambulance will be on standby for emergencies.

“If an issue arises tomorrow, we will be working and encourage community members to contact us for assistance,” Chief Dwyer said. “Please ensure that your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly so that you will be alerted in the event of an emergency.”

The West Newbury Police and Fire Departments advise that residents:

Never use their oven as a heat source.
Do not use electric or space heaters while sleeping.
Place electric or space heaters at least 3 feet away from bedding or combustible materials.
Keep stocks of batteries on hand for radios and flashlights in case of a power outage.
Never leave candles unattended.
Make sure phones, laptops and other communication devices are charged.
Beware of carbon monoxide and stay safe by never warming up your car in the garage, servicing your heating system at least once per year, and making sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
ALWAYS clear the tailpipe of a vehicle that is buried in snow BEFORE you start or warm up the vehicle to prevent exposure to carbon monoxide. Failure to do so can be fatal for those inside the vehicle.
Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and change batteries twice per year. Make sure smoke detectors are working on every floor of your home.
Reserve calling 911 for emergencies only.

“With little to no visibility forecasted during the peak of the winter storm Stella, we strongly advise that residents keep off the roads,” Police Chief Art Reed said. “Complete your storm preparations today and stay safe tomorrow.”

Residents should also remember not to park on the streets, especially overnight, to allow plows to clear routes.

After the snow falls, you can help the West Newbury Fire Department by shoveling out your nearest fire hydrants. Also, make sure that your home or business sidewalks are properly shoveled and place salt or ice melt to prevent people from falling.

When shoveling, or walking outside for more than a few minutes, dress appropriately, with exposed skin covered and wear a hat and gloves. Frostbite can strike quickly when temperatures are low. Do what you can to avoid getting wet and take frequent breaks.

If roads become impassable by debris or snow, notify the police and highway departments, which will be out to ensure roads remain open at all time.

Emergency numbers:

Call 911, a direct line to the police department and fire/EMS, for emergencies only. All other questions or concerns should be reported to the West Newbury Police Department’s business line, 978-363-1213 or West Newbury Fire Department’s business line, 978-363-1111

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West Newbury Police Department to Host Citizens Police Academy

February 22, 2017 by Jessica Sacco Leave a Comment

WNPD patch copy

West Newbury Police Department
Art Reed, Chief of Police
401 Main St.
West Newbury, MA 01985

For Immediate Release

Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017

Contact: John Guilfoil
Office: 978-971-8101
Email: john@jgpr.net

West Newbury Police Department to Host Citizens Police Academy

WEST NEWBURY — Chief Art Reed is pleased to announce that the West Newbury Police Department will host a Citizens Police Academy next month.

The academy is designed to familiarize community members with the daily operations of the West Newbury Police Department. Classes will start on Wednesday, March 22, and will run for the following four Wednesday nights from 7-9 p.m. at the Public Safety Complex, 401 Main St.

West Newbury Police, led by academy organizer Sgt. Jeff Durand, will cover a wide range of topics, including drug and Operating Under the Influence (OUI) enforcement, traffic stops and crashes, firearms and the K-9 unit. Participants will also tour the Middleton House of Corrections and go on a two-hour ride-along to observe police officers on patrol.

Class size is limited to 15 participants. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and acceptance will operate on a first come, first served basis. West Newbury residents will be given preference.

“We’re always looking for new opportunities to interact with residents as part of our community policing initiative,” Chief Reed said. “The Citizens Police Academy is a great way for residents to get to know what their police officers do on a daily basis. We encourage all who are interested to sign up.”

Applications may be picked up at the West Newbury Police Department or downloaded at westnewburysafety.org. All forms must be returned to the police station by March 15.

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Joint Press Release West Newbury Police Work with Whittier High School to Create New Drug Drop-Off Box

February 2, 2017 by Jessica Sacco Leave a Comment

For Immediate Release

Thursday, Feb. 2, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Joint Press Release West Newbury Police Work with Whittier High School to Create New Drug Drop-Off Box

The West Newbury Police Department worked with students at Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School to create a new prescription drug drop-off box. Left to right: Officer Michael Dwyer, Officer Jay Johnson, who runs the West Newbury Police Department’s Drug Take Back Day, and Chief Art Reed. (Courtesy Photo)

Back row, left to right: Whittier students Matrix Mojica, junior; Jonathan Mangion, senior; Metal Fabrication Instructor Stephen Palmer; Dylan Gaumont, junior; Alyssa Fantauzzi, senior; and Justin Galicia, junior. Front row, left to right: seniors Brandon Erelli and Franchesca Hernandez. (Courtesy Photo Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School)

WEST NEWBURY — Chief Art Reed and Maureen Lynch, Superintendent of Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School, are pleased to announce that the West Newbury Police Department worked with students to create a new prescription drug drop-off box.

The drop box provides 24-hour access to local residents who need to dispose of over-the-counter drugs, unneeded prescriptions, medication samples and unused pills.

Whittier students in grades 10-12 who are in the metal fabrication shop spent three weeks building the box. Chief Reed and Officer Michael Dwyer coordinated with instructor Stephen Palmer to create a piece made of sheet metal that stands at 4 1/2 feet by 1 1/2 feet and 2 1/2 feet deep.

“This drop-off box was customized to fit the town’s needs,” Chief Reed said. “I’m pleased that the West Newbury Police Department was able to collaborate with Whittier. These types of partnerships are key to the success of any community. Thank you to Stephen and his students for their dedication to this project.”

The new box will also allow the West Newbury Police Department to double the amount of prescription drugs that can be deposited. In the last year, the department has collected approximately 50 pounds of unused and unwanted medications.

“Students always really enjoy the opportunity to work on these specialized, creative projects,” Superintendent Lynch said. “They’re proud of their accomplishments and we always appreciate community collaborations. It’s great that their work will be displayed outside the classroom and will have a positive effect on residents.”

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Joint Release West Newbury, Merrimac Police Provide Guidance on Marijuana Legalization

December 23, 2016 by Chelsea Belliveau Leave a Comment

Friday, Dec. 23, 2016

For Immediate Release

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Joint Release West Newbury, Merrimac Police Provide Guidance on Marijuana Legalization

WEST NEWBURY, MERRIMAC and GROVELAND — Now that recreational and commercial use of marijuana is legal in Massachusetts, West Newbury Police Chief Art Reed, Merrimac Police Chief Eric Shears and Groveland Deputy Police Chief Jeffrey Gillen would like to notify the public on what has changed and what remains the same under state law.

Law enforcement agencies statewide received guidance last week from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security and Secretary Daniel Bennett.

“This law strictly applies to those 21 and older and does not permit the use of marijuana in public places or at schools,” Chief Reed said. “Additionally, operating under the influence of drugs is not permitted and we will continue to be vigilant in enforcing that law.”

“We understand that much has changed under this new law, but regulations to ensure your safety and the safety of others are of course in place,” Chief Shears said. “Please be mindful and respectful of these guidelines at all times.”

“Civil penalties are still in place for those under 21, and parents may be held responsible for children under 18, so we ask that residents carefully review to new law to make sure they’re in compliance at all times,” Deputy Gillen said.

As of Thursday, Dec. 15:

A person age 21 or older may legally possess up to one ounce of marijuana outside their primary residence.
A person age 21 or older may possess up to 5 grams of marijuana concentrate (such as cannabis oil).
No civil penalties or tickets may be issued for legal possession of marijuana or marijuana concentrate by those age 21 or older.
Police may not seize lawful quantities of marijuana or marijuana concentrate.
For persons between the ages of 18-21, marijuana possession remains decriminalized, and police may levy a civil penalty of $100.
For persons under age 18, possession remains decriminalized, but juveniles in possession will be subject to a civil penalty of $100 and will be required to complete a drug awareness program or face a penalty of up to $1,000. (Parents may be held liable for the penalties.)
Marijuana is still not allowed on the grounds of a public or private school.
A person age 21 or older may possess up to 10 ounces of marijuana inside their primary residence. (Only one primary residence is allowed per person.)
A person age 21 or older may grow/cultivate up to six marijuana plants OR a single residence, consisting of two or more people over age 21, may cultivate up to 12 marijuana plants if at least two people in the household are engaged in growing activity there.
For example: In the case of households with two roommates, if one roommate wants to grow marijuana but the other does not wish to engage in the cultivation of marijuana, the other roommate may only grow six plants, not 12.
Any person who exceeds the cultivation limits without a license from the Cannabis Control Commission, may be subject to civil fines for seven to 12 plants or criminal prosecution of a single person if that person exceeds 12 plants.
A person age 21 or older may give under one ounce of marijuana to another person age 21 or older.
Unlicensed selling or trading remains a criminal offense.
Sale of marijuana paraphernalia, such as bongs or pipes, to a person age 21 or older, is legal.
Sale of marijuana paraphernalia, such as bongs or pipes, to a person between the ages of 18-20 remains a misdemeanor, while sale to minors remains a felony.
A person under age 21 who purchases or attempts to purchase marijuana paraphernalia, is subject to a civil penalty of $100, but not criminal charges.
It remains a crime to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of ANY drugs, including marijuana.
Public consumption of marijuana is prohibited, unless used for medical purposes.
Consumption of marijuana in any place that bans the use of tobacco (bars, restaurants, etc.) is prohibited.
No person may possess an “open container” of marijuana in a motor vehicle.

Additionally, marijuana remains illegal under federal law and inside federal parks, buildings, and facilities.

Anyone with questions about the laws pertaining to the use of marijuana should contact their local police department. West Newbury Police at 978-363-1213, Merrimac Police at 978-346-8321 or Groveland Police at 978-521-1212.

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Job Posting: West Newbury Seeking Full Time Patrol Officer

November 10, 2016 by Tricia Tiedt Leave a Comment

The Town of West Newbury is seeking a qualified candidate for the position of full-time patrol officer.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens at least 21 years of age. A college degree is preferred.

Applicants must have at least one year of experience in criminal justice and at least Reserve Academy trained. Full-time Academy trained is preferred.

Applicants are required to take the Great Bay Police Testing Alliance exam and pass with a score of 75% or higher.

Must reside within 15 miles of West Newbury after being hired.

A resume, cover letter, and application must be submitted to Chief Reed by December 1.

Applications and full job description are available at the West Newbury Safety Complex.

AA/EOE

West Newbury Police Arrest Two for Attempting to Sell Drugs in Town

November 10, 2016 by Tricia Tiedt Leave a Comment

WNPD patch copy

West Newbury Police Department
Art Reed, Chief of Police
401 Main St.
West Newbury, MA 01985

For Immediate Release

Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016

Contact: Tricia Tiedt
Office: 978-971-8101
Email: tricia@jgpr.net

West Newbury Police Arrest Two for Attempting to Sell Drugs in Town

WEST NEWBURY — Chief Art Reed reports that the West Newbury Police Department arrested a man and woman for drug possession with the intent to distribute in two separate investigations within the past week.

LISETTE MARIE HAMMONDS, AGE 41, OF HAVERHILL, was arrested on Wednesday, Nov. 9 and charged with the following:

Possession to Distribute a Class A Substance (Felony)
Possession to Distribute a Class B Substance (Felony)
Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (Felony)
Operating an Unregistered Motor Vehicle (Misdemeanor)
Resisting Arrest (Misdemeanor)
Disorderly Conduct (Misdemeanor)
Disturbing the Peace (Misdemeanor)

Last night at approximately 7 p.m., West Newbury Police Officer Danielle Burrill conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with an expired registration sticker. While approaching the operator, HAMMONDS, Officer Burrill noticed that she was hiding a bag under her shirt.

Through an on-scene investigation, Officer Burrill determined that HAMMONDS was in possession of both heroin and cocaine and was intending to distribute both substances in West Newbury.

HAMMONDS was combative on scene and refused arrest. She was arrested, charged, and booked at the West Newbury Police Department and held pending her arraignment at Newburyport District Court.

Officer Burrill was assisted by Groveland Police, Newburyport Police, and Salisbury Police K-9 unit at the scene.

On Wednesday, Nov. 2, JAMES O’BRIEN, AGE 49, OF NEWBURYPORT was arrested after a long-term joint investigation between West Newbury and Newburyport Police.

O’BRIEN was charged with:

Possession to Distribute a Class B Substance (Felony)
Window Obscured by Non-transparent Materials (Misdemeanor)
Window Tint Violation (Citation)

The joint investigation concluded that on Nov. 2, O’BRIEN was driving from Haverhill to Newburyport via West Newbury with the intention of distributing heroin. During his arrest, Sgt. Daniel Cena found 3.5 grams of cocaine on O’BRIEN’s person.

“I commend the West Newbury officers who are making an active effort to take those distributing drugs off our streets,” Chief Reed said. “We are committed to making our community the safest place possible for our residents and our children.”

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Joint Release West Newbury, Merrimac, Groveland Police Address Nationwide Clown Scare

October 7, 2016 by Tricia Tiedt Leave a Comment

Friday, Oct. 7, 2016

For Immediate Release

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Joint Release West Newbury, Merrimac, Groveland Police Address Nationwide Clown Scare

WEST NEWBURY — West Newbury Chief Art Reed, Merrimac Chief Eric Shears and Groveland Deputy Police Chief Jeffrey Gillen are coming together to reassure the community that their police departments are actively monitoring the clown scare tactic currently sweeping the nation.

In August, parents in South Carolina were alarmed after a group of people dressed as clowns were reported as trying to lure children into the woods. Since then, numerous sightings of individuals in clown face paint and outfits, often times wielding weapons or acting suspicious, have been reported throughout the country.

Last week, a nationwide threat was made over Twitter targeting schools by a clown-related group. Although the threat has passed, police are actively monitoring any suspicious related activity in and around the Pentucket Regional School District. On Tuesday night, a Merrimack College dormitory in North Andover was evacuated after someone reported seeing an individual, dressed as a clown and carrying a weapon.

Similar incidents have been reported in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Nova Scotia, Canada.

Though no specific threat was made to the Pentucket Regional School District, Groveland and West Newbury police officers were stationed at all schools for early dismissal today.

“We are taking every precaution to ensure the safety of our students and staff,” Deputy Gillen said. “Parents should rest assured that we are monitoring the activity on social media and feel free to contact the department with concerns.”

“Any student, staff member, or resident who sees or hears of any suspicious activity regarding clowns should report it immediately,” Chief Reed said. “While there have not been any direct threats to the Pentucket Regional community, we do not tolerate this kind of harmful behavior.”

“Although it is not illegal to dress up as or impersonate a clown, it is considered destructive and reckless due to the climate currently surrounding this issue,” Chief Shears said. “With Halloween approaching, we encourage everyone to refrain from using this costume, as it may insight fear throughout the community.”

Any residents with questions or concerns should contact their local police department. West Newbury Police at 978-363-1213, Merrimac Police at 978-346-8321, or Groveland Police at 978-521-1212.

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West Newbury Police to Host Coffee with a Cop

October 3, 2016 by Tricia Tiedt Leave a Comment

WNPD patch copy

West Newbury Police Department
Art Reed, Chief of Police
401 Main St.
West Newbury, MA 01985

For Immediate Release

Monday, Oct. 3, 2016

Contact: Tricia Tiedt
Office: 978-971-8101
Email: tricia@jgpr.net

West Newbury Police to Host Coffee with a Cop

WEST NEWBURY — Chief Art Reed is pleased to announce that the West Newbury Police Department is holding a Coffee with a Cop event this weekend and invited community members to attend.

WHO:

Chief Reed
West Newbury Police Officers
West Newbury residents

WHEN:

Saturday, Oct. 8 from 8-10 a.m.

WHERE:

Town Office Building, 381 Main St.

WHAT:

The West Newbury Police Department invites all residents to join them for coffee and conversation at Coffee with a Cop, a nationwide movement by police departments to provide a relaxed, welcoming environment for community members to meet officers and talk about what’s going on in town.

“This week is National Community Policing Week,” Chief Reed said. “We encourage all residents – both those who have been to an event like this and those who have not – to join us for coffee while casually chatting about a variety of topics.”

About Coffee with a Cop:

Coffee With a Cop began in Hawthorne, Calif. in 2011 as a result of police officers brainstorming ways to better interact with their community. They developed a simple plan to break down the barriers that have been built between police officers and citizens — have a cup of coffee, discuss what’s on your mind, ask questions and make suggestions that could better the community.

Since its creation, Coffee With a Cop events have been held in more than 2,000 communities in 49 states. It is regarded as one of the most successful community oriented policing programs in the United States.

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West Newbury Police Invite Community to National Night Out

July 29, 2016 by Jessica Sacco Leave a Comment

WNPD patch copy

West Newbury Police Department
Art Reed, Chief of Police
401 Main St.
West Newbury, MA 01985

For Immediate Release

Friday, July 29, 2016

Contact: Tricia Tiedt
Office: 978-971-8101
Email: tricia@jgpr.net

West Newbury Police Invite Community to National Night Out

WEST NEWBURY – Chief Art Reed is pleased to announce that the West Newbury Police Department is hosting several free, family friendly activities for National Night Out.

National Night Out is a campaign designed to promote partnerships between police and fire officials and their communities to foster relationships and improve safety in neighborhoods. It occurs every year on the first Tuesday in August.

On Aug. 2, from 5-8 p.m., head to Pentucket Regional High School, 24 Main St., for a chance to look inside police cars, fire trucks, Department of Public Works vehicles, tow trucks and more. The Essex County Sheriff’s Department will be on scene to provide K-9 demonstrations and the Massachusetts State Police will fly in their helicopter. The Groveland and Merrimac Police and Fire Departments will also participate in the festivities, for the first tri-town National Night Out!

Children will be treated to games, face painting, a bounce house and snacks like cotton candy and popcorn. Music will be played throughout the night for the entire family to enjoy.

“We’re excited to bring police officers and firefighters, from West Newbury, Groveland and Merrimac, together with the residents during this fun tri-town event,” Chief Reed said. “We are always looking for ways to expand our community policing initiatives and we encourage citizens to join us for National Night Out.”

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