Waltham Police Chief Could Return to Former Police Rank

Saying she is concerned about a city rule that would allow Waltham Police Chief Thomas LaCroix to return to the department at a lower rank, Mayor Jeanette McCarthy plans to propose a change in the ordinance. 

McCarthy, however, in a recent interview with Waltham Patch, said she is not sure whether a change in rule would impact LaCroix’s chances of returning to the police department. 

“I don’t agree with [the existing rule] I think it’s flawed,” McCarthy told Waltham Patch.

LaCroix is facing charges of allegedly beating his wife and her friend. He is currently on paid administrative leave. 

Specifically, the rule would allow LaCroix to return to the department at his previous rank, captain, and retain civil service protections he gave up when he became chief in 2008, according to McCarthy. There is one catch, however.

“[LaCroix could retain his prior rank] provided, however, that any conduct of such person that occurred while serving as Chief of Police that led to his resignation shall become part of his record in his previous rank and shall render him subject to any civil service disciplinary proceeding upon his reappointment to his previous rank,” city ordinance 14f reads. (To view a copy of the ordinance, click on the PDF box to the right).

The City Council, in addition to the mayor, would have to approve any change in the rule, according to McCarthy. McCarthy said she plans to raise the issue at a City Council meeting in August.