The Framingham Police Department put two of its officers on leave amid an internal investigation into alleged “misconduct,” Chief Lester Baker announced Monday.
The two officers, who were not named, are on paid administrative, Framingham police said, and the issues “under review involve potential health and wellness concerns.”
The “alleged misconduct” was recently brought to the attention of the command staff, Baker said.
“The public can be assured, the Department acted swiftly when this information came to light, and this action ensures that police operations remain fully effective and above reproach while the internal investigation is ongoing,” Baker said. “Our focus remains on protecting the community, ensuring accountability, and supporting the wellness of our personnel.”
No criminal charges have been filed, Baker notes, but the results of the internal review could require further action including a criminal investigation.
The department declined to comment further on the allegations. An email sent to the Framingham Police Association was unreturned Wednesday night.
Framingham Mayor Charlie Sisitsky said he was “deeply disappointed” by the allegations in a statement shared with Boston.com Wednesday. He declined to comment on details because it is an “active personnel and investigative matter.”
“That said, my administration is committed to transparency to the extent allowed by law and procedure, and we will hold anyone found to have engaged in misconduct fully accountable,” Sisitsky said.
Sisitsky said he would “authorize outside or independent resources to assist to ensure the investigation is complete, objective, and credible,” if necessary.
“The City and the Police Department will continue to cooperate with any external investigations,” Sisitsky said, “and will provide public updates as appropriate while respecting the integrity of the investigation and the privacy rights of those involved.”