Framingham State Names Next Chief Of Police

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Framingham State University has named its next police chief in Joseph Cecchi.

Cecchi, who will be sworn in during a ceremony on Aug. 28 at 11 a.m., joins the university after 15 years in various roles at Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester. At Quinsigamond, Cecchi served as captain and academy director at the Quinsigamond Community College Police Academy, as well as serving on the Brimfield and Princeton Police Departments.

“We are thrilled to have Chief Cecchi join the FSU community,” said FSU Dean of Students Dr. Meg Nowak. “He brings a wealth of prior experience to FSU and a dedication to effective community policing.”

Cecchi takes over for former Chief John Santoro, who stepped down in April to take over as Chief of Police for the town of Plaistow, NH. Deputy Chief Martin Laughlin has been serving as interim Chief of Police since that time.

“While FSUPD is transitioning I want the community to be assured the department will strive for trust, legitimacy, and transparency, in everything we do,” Cecchi said. “I look forward to working with the students, staff and faculty on our approach to problem solving, community policing and overall safety on campus.”

Cecchi helped develop the first full-time MPTC-Authorized Police Academy in an Extended Format (nights and weekends) for students who are aspiring to become police officers, developed field training programs for newly appointed police officers, updated policies & procedures, trained officers in fair and impartial policing, worked closely with the community to ensure positive relations and maintained strong community partnerships through community outreach efforts, university officials said.

Cecchi has a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Worcester State University and a Master of Public Administration Degree with a concentration in criminal justice from Anna Maria College.