We're Sorry: Town Apologies to Sheehan Abuse Victims

FOXBOROUGH, MA — Four years after the atrocious crimes of Bill Sheehan came to light, the Town of Foxborough has issued an apology.

At the start of Tuesday’s selectmen's meeting, Selectman Jim DeVellis read an apology note from the board and town.

“The board is decades removed from the tragic behavior of Bill Sheehan, but we recognize the office we hold dates back to that period. We hold today, the responsibilities others have held before us. We affirm to the victims that we believe their statements, that these criminal actions took place, and we deeply regret that they did. We, the leaders of today offer our sympathy and condolences for what was done to you. We are truly sorry for your pain and suffering. On behalf of Foxborough, we regret that this individual abused you and want you to know we remain committed to doing all we can to prevent such actions in the future. It is because of you, your bravery and willingness to share your traumatic experience, that have made and will continue to make every effort to prevent this from happening again. We want you to know that the present leadership of this town, which we represent, deeply cares for you and regrets the damage done to each of you and we hope our efforts to protect children since you’ve shared your stories with us brings comfort to you and you’re speaking up is a greater service than we could ever ask,” DeVellis said, reading from the letter.

Since 2012, several victims of Sheehan have stepped forward to say that they were molested by the former teacher, boys scout leader, and town swimming coordinator. Sheehan, who currently residents in a monitored and secured living facility in Florida, is incoherent and was deemed not fit for trial. Warrants for his arrest remain active in the event that changes, the board said.

While the apology will not bring closure for many or heal the wounds of the past four decades, former resident and Sheehan victim Danny Smith commended the board for their response over the past four year.

“It’s by no means the final words on the failure of the town to protect a large number children, it does not ease my pain or soothe my mind, it doesn't heal the scars. I deal with my scares every day,” Smith said. “Then again, an apology is a regretful acknowledgement of a sin of the past. I must credit the board for the acknowledgement. I also much acknowledge your attempts and efforts for preventing this type of crime in the future.”

Child Sexual Abuse Committee Chairman Bob Correira, Pastor Bill Dudley, and former Selectman Linda Walsh also praised the board for the apology.

“It’s important what you’ve done and it’s a long time coming. We can’t change the past but we are making a bright future for Foxborough and bringing it back to the gem it is,” Walsh said.

Since 2012, Foxborough has developed new legislation expanding the definition of sexual abuse mandated reporter. Since them, hundreds of public employees, school officials, youth league volunteers, and groups that use town property have taken training to identify child sexual abuse.

Image: file photo