Reading Police Unions Respond To Selectman Andrew Friedmann

READING, MA — Two unions representing members of the Reading Police Department condemned Selectman Andrew Friedmann's comments about police officers at a recent board meeting. During a discussion about choosing the next police chief, Selectman Andrew Friedmann said he felt "intimidated" by the officers in attendance.

"As an elected Select Board member, I'm feeling pretty intimidated by the police officers in this crowd," Friedmann said. "You laugh at that, you think that's funny, but I have to live in this town, and all of you drive around town with guns."

On Thursday, the Reading Police Supervisors Union and the Reading Police Patrol Officers Union issued a joint statement calling Friedmann's comments "shameful."

"To insult and fault us for carrying firearms in the performance of our dangerous line of work, is beyond hurtful and detrimental to the reputation of all the officers," the unions wrote. We serve this community with pride and risk our lives for the safety of its citizens. Such a statement by an elected official undermines the communities [sic] trust in the Police, and trust is the very foundation on which a successful Police Department is built."

Police assured the public they will continue to "receive the same exemplary service from the Reading Police Department that they are accustomed to."

Friedmann's comments drew widespread criticism, including from Select Board Chair Vanessa Alvarado. Many in attendance at Tuesday's meeting immediately walked out.

Friedmann has since apologized, telling WHDH, "I deeply regret my statement and recognize it was wrong. It was one of those comments, made in the heat of the moment, that I wish I could take back. In addition to the members of the Reading Police Department, I also wish to apologize to the residents of Reading."