Crime & Safety

New Commissioner Wants to 'Repair' PD

Brenna Cavanaugh defeated incumbent John Russo.

There was an upset in Police Commission race during Tuesday's election, as newcomer Brenna Cavanaugh defeated incumbent John Russo. Gerry Howe, another incumbent, was re-elected.

Cavanaugh said she decided to run because of the Geraldine Webber case, which involves a now-deceased woman who left most of her estate to a Portsmouth police officer. Various stakeholders argue Webber was subject to "undue influence."

During a candidate forum, Cavanaugh said the case "overshadowed the remarkable work our police officers do everyday."

"I'm running to repair the relationship between the police department and the community," she said.

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