Stonington Police Commissioner Under Fire For Comments

STONINGTON, CT — Town and state officials are criticizing Board of Police Commissioners member Robert O'Shaughnessy after he made controversial social posts on race, immigration, and other issues, The Day reported.

Some are also calling for O'Shaughnessy's resignation, including the Democratic Town Committee, state Rep. Kate Rotella of Mystic, and Democratic state senate candidate Bob Statchen of Stonington.

O'Shaughnessy later posted a response to the criticism stating that he regretted his words and would take more care in future posts. However, he told The Day that he will not resign.

First Selectwoman Danielle Chesebrough posted the following on the town's Facebook page: "The commentary reposted by a member of a Town Commission is contrary to the values of our community.

"We are a community diverse in our views, and we should all do more to understand those differing opinions. However, there is a line between a healthy balance of the political spectrum and divisive language that oversimplifies complex issues.

"The Board of Selectman will discuss steps we need to take to address this situation and continue to improve as a community to ensure all people know they will be treated with respect in Stonington.

"As we are all learning how to do better everyday, let us offer each other support as we learn and evolve."

Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly listed First Selectwoman Danielle Chesebrough as calling for O'Shaughnessy's resignation.