A letter to the Residents of Duxbury from Chief McDonald

These are challenging times. As the world prepares for and responds to the coronavirus outbreak, in so many ways we are navigating uncharted waters. Information and updates are coming at us hourly. As we digest and implement these changes, one thing remains unchanged: the men and women of the Duxbury Police Department continue to be committed to the health, safety, and wellness of the members of our community.

Policing will continue despite the changes that continue to come our way. Your police officers will not withdraw; they will remain on the front lines to ensure your safety.  That is our paramount directive. I am proud of the men and women of this Department and have the utmost respect for their dedication to this community.

Out of respect for their safety and health, we have temporarily adapted some of our operational practices to meet the challenges associated with this pandemic. We are taking every reasonable precaution to keep our officers healthy so that they may protect and assist our citizens.  We are asking citizens in need of non-emergency assistance to refrain from physically visiting the Department; instead, please call our business line at (781) 934-5656 for further guidance. If you are experiencing an emergency, you should still call 911.  In order to minimize face to face contact, we are asking you to understand that if an officer is dispatched to your home or business they will make every attempt to have you come outside if possible. Officers will also be practicing social distancing in most circumstances.

I would like to remind our residents that due to the “stay at home” order, there is increased activity on our roadways as many people are choosing to walk and bike as a relief to the monotony. I have instructed officers to continue their enforcement of all traffic laws, paying special attention to any activity that may place others in harms way. Please pay extra attention while out driving, walking, and biking around town. 

I would also like to remind our residents that due to the “stay at home” order, we will all be living in close proximity to our family members and roommates. These uncertain times may bring about moments of stress and anxiety which could lead to domestic strife. If this happens, please take a moment to think; step away and separate yourself from the situation. Emotional outbursts and actions are the number one causes of domestic situations to which the police are called. The Commonwealth has very strict laws regarding police response to domestic situations; in many circumstances, these laws do not allow for any discretion by responding officers. In other words, in most situations officers are mandated by law to make a physical arrest. Please do not allow an emotional outburst during this stressful time to facilitate your introduction to the criminal justice system. These types of actions may have far reaching, and time consuming, negative influences on your life.

Please note: we are paying special attention to all activities on our beaches. We ask beachgoers to respect the physical beach, all regulations/laws, and the personnel stationed there. These individuals are a valuable part of our team and are there to enforce the applicable laws/regulations, protecting the beach and you. Pay attention to the applicable regulations/laws and all closing times; we want everyone to enjoy this beautiful resource, but insist that it be done in a respectful manner.

Duxbury is an incredible community that has always come together in times of difficulty.  Please take care of yourselves, your family, your friends and your neighbors. It is this strong sense of community that sets us apart from many others in the Commonwealth. Rest assured that in your time of need, the Duxbury Police Department stands ready and able to assist you.

Respectfully,

Stephen R. McDonald
Chief of Police