Braintree Councilors Back Officer Involved in Shooting Amid Criticism From Resident

Originally published Oct. 4, 2016.

BRAINTREE, MA — Town officials took a unanimous stance in support of Braintree police officers in the face of accusations from one resident who says they can’t be trusted.

During the public comment portion of Tuesday’s Braintree Town Council meeting, Travis Winden took aim at Mayor Joseph Sullivan, the audit of the evidence room, and a March incident that involved Officer William Cushing.

“I am dismayed and angry with Braintree police for the lack of trust we hold and the embarrassment and shame they’ve brought to our town,” he said.

Widen mainly focused on Cushing, who shot Robert Dussourd earlier this year. During the early hours of March 24, police responded to a domestic disturbance on Liberty Street. The caller told police that the suspect, identified as Dussourd, had a knife. During the end of an altercation with police, Dussourd walked towards Cushing with a knife, swinging his arm in a windmill-like motion, according to a report from the Norfolk County District Attorney's office. With Dussourd within two or three feet of him, Cushing fired two rounds from his gun before Dussourd fell to the ground. Dussourd later died from the gunshot wounds.

The District Attorney’s office concluded that Cushing's action was justified.

“One of our own citizens was gunned down by our police and this is being swept under the rug. Officer Cushing needs to be terminated for our safety. If not, who will be killed next?” Widen continued.

“Your characterization (of Cushing) is repugnant,” Councilor Dan Clifford said, to the applause of the many members of the Braintree Police Department in attendance.

The council shared Clifford’s sentiments, backing Sullivan and the police department.

“I think you should be ashamed about how you spoke about the mayor and the people of this town. By the time this night is over I am going to sing the praises of Chief Russell Jenkins and Deputy Chief Wayne Foster, two men who have kept this town safe,” Councilman John Mullaney said,

Sullivan told the council that he has spent many hours meeting with Winden, adding that during the previous meetings, he never said any of the things he stated in his remarks.

“I have no reason then or today to dispute the work of the District Attorney in this particular incident. I support Officer Cushing. I believe he acted in a restrained way, a professional way, and in the best interest of the Town of Braintree. He didn’t want to be put in that position, but he upheld the model of the Braintree Police Department which is to serve and protect and he did it in a way we should all be proud of,” Sullivan said.

Councilor Charles Kokoros, who was a member of the Board of Selectmen that approved the hiring of Cushing 12 years ago, said he would put his reputation on the officer’s actions and how he does his job.

“This councilor completely disagrees with the speaker regarding accusations and condemnation of the mayor. As a resident of this town and someone who was raised in this town, I take exception to it and I am 100 percent behind Officer Cushing and the Braintree Police Department.

Councilor Thomas Bowes said he was embarrassed to have to listen to Winden’s remarks.

"I have come to known Officer Cushing and what he has done for our youth and neighborhoods day in and day out. Even though (the police) are going through hard times, they have acted professionally. Officer Cushing, I hope you have a long career in Braintree and move up the ranks,” Bowes said.

Afterward, Sullivan told reporters that he met with Widen Tuesday afternoon and would be happy to set up a meeting with the District Attorney’s office.