Acton’s Finest Welcomes 2 New Officers From Lowell Police Academy

ACTON, MA — The Acton Police Department is adding two new faces to its ranks, welcoming Officers James Barry and Phannith Sann, who graduated from the Lowell Police Academy on Friday, Oct. 9.

The pair officially joined Acton’s Finest on Tuesday morning, Oct. 13, when Town Clerk Leo Mercado administered their oaths of office. Next up? A 10-week field training program to help them hit the ground running and get to know the community they’ll serve.

Meet Officer James Barry

A Marlborough native, Officer Barry brings an impressive academic background to the badge. After graduating from Worcester Academy in 2018, he earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Lasell University and a master’s degree in criminal justice from UMass Lowell. He also holds a graduate certificate in domestic violence prevention from UMass Lowell.

Before joining Acton’s Finest, Barry put his education to work as a paralegal at a Boston law firm and completed an internship with the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office.

When he’s off duty, Barry trades the legal world for the links, enjoying a round of golf and keeping up with his favorite sports.

Meet Officer Phannith Sann

Officer Sann, a Lowell native, brings a people-focused background to his new role. His professional experience includes customer service, management, and youth programming, including serving as a youth program coordinator at the YMCA in Lowell.

Those experiences have given him plenty of opportunities to work with people from different walks of life — a valuable skill as he begins serving the Acton community.

Outside the department, Sann is a proud New England Patriots fan who enjoys staying active. Hopefully, his game-day enthusiasm is ready for another season of cheering on the Pats!

A Warm Welcome to Acton’s Finest

Acton Police Chief Douglas Sturniolo is excited to see what the two new officers bring to the department and the community.

“These are two highly qualified officers, and I look forward to seeing what they contribute to the Acton community,” said Chief Sturniolo. “They each have a unique background and set of experiences that will add to our department and community.”

With strong educational foundations, diverse professional experiences, and a shared commitment to public service, Officers Barry and Sann are ready to begin this next chapter.

Please join us in welcoming Acton’s newest officers as they begin their field training and prepare to serve and protect the community!