Chelmsford Police Chief Apologizes To City Of Lawrence

CHELMSFORD, MA — Chelmsford police Chief James Spinney recently apologized to Lawrence officials over his "poor choice" of words about suspects who stole a detective's cruiser, personal car and shotgun. During a news conference last week, Spinney was asked about the possible location of the shotgun and replied, "For all I know it could be in Lawrence."

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"Chief Spinney's answer was only intended to convey distance from Chelmsford and was not intended to be a slight against the City of Lawrence," police said in a statement. "He understands that he used a poor choice of words."

In his own statement, Spinney said, "I sincerely apologize to the residents of the City of Lawrence. Please know that while I understand that my choice of words was wrong, I did not intend to offend anyone or speak poorly of the City. I was only trying to comment that the missing firearm may be miles away from Chelmsford for all we knew, that early in the investigation.

He added, "I have also been in contact with Lawrence Police Chief James Fitzpatrick this morning to convey the same sentiment, and I asked him to share my apology with Mayor Dan Rivera ... I have also reached out to City Council President Kendrys Vasquez."

Chelmsford police eventually recovered the shotgun in Lowell. They are continuing the search for the suspects.

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Photo: Downtown Lawrence. (Credit: Anathea Utley/Flickr)