State Investigation Expands To Include Former Salem Police Chief

SALEM -- The New Hampshire Attorney General’s office investigation into the Salem Police Department has expanded to include former chief Paul Donovan.

Brian Pattullo, who has headed the department since Donovan’s resignation in November, confirmed to the Manchester Union-Leader that investigators notified him and Town Manager Chris Dillon that Donovan is now part of a criminal investigation.

In January, Patch reported the AG’s office had opened an investigation into the department after a town audit released in November detailed apparent issues, ranging from Dillon's claim that police management had a "complete and utter disregard" for his authority to "completely inappropriate" Facebook posts by officers to inadequate record-keeping of officers' schedules.

Donovan said at that time that he disagreed with some of the allegations.

"(The Salem police) culture is inclusive, collegial and respectful to those inside and outside the department," Donovan wrote in a response to the audit. "I have worked hard to foster an environment of mutual courtesy and respect. But I understand there is always room for improvement."

Salem Deputy Chief Robert Morin, Capt. Michael Wagner and Sgt. Michael Verrocchi are all on administrative leave pending the investigation, according to the Union-Leader.

Donovan resigned in November the day before the audit was released to the public. The AG’s office soon began its review of the department.

(For more news and information like this, subscribe to the Salem Patch for free. If you have an iPhone, click here to get the free Patch iPhone app; download the free Patch Android app here. Don't forget to like us on Facebook!)