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To the editor:
As a member of the Marblehead Select Board, I want to address the recent article published on Nov. 24, which reported accusations made at the Boards of Health meeting concerning Police Chief Dennis King and the enforcement of underage drinking and social-hosting laws. These claims are unfounded and misrepresent both the facts and the integrity of the Marblehead Police Department.
Let me state this plainly and unequivocally: I have full confidence in Chief Dennis King. His leadership, his professionalism and his commitment to the safety of Marblehead are exceptional. Chief King has demonstrated integrity throughout his career, and the Marblehead Police Department’s recent full state accreditation, a rigorous, independent review of policies, procedures and operations, is further evidence of the department’s strong performance under his leadership.
The statements made at the Board of Health meeting, including the allegation that “orders from the top” prevent enforcement of social-hosting laws and the characterization of the chief’s leadership as “counterproductive and ignorant,” are inaccurate, unsupported and deeply unfair. They also reflect a misunderstanding of how these laws are enforced. Social-hosting investigations require meeting specific legal standards of evidence and due process. Enforcement is not as simple as issuing a citation on demand.
Just as concerning as the content of the accusation is the method used to deliver it. Making a serious allegation of misconduct against a department head, without first speaking to Chief King, town staff or any Select Board member, or seeking to verify the facts, is not an appropriate or responsible way to raise concerns. Publicly leveling unvetted accusations at a televised meeting does not foster cooperation; it undermines trust, damages working relationships and does a disservice to the public.
I share the community’s concern about underage drinking and social hosting. These issues deserve focused, coordinated and informed action. That is why I have been actively gathering information, speaking with town staff and reviewing the facts. That work is ongoing and will continue in a professional and respectful manner.
I also want to be clear about this: I welcome dialogue. I welcome ideas and constructive engagement from any board member, resident or stakeholder who wants to collaborate to improve youth safety. But meaningful collaboration requires reaching out, asking questions and working together in good faith, not making public accusations based on incomplete or inaccurate information.
Marblehead is best served when we address difficult issues with clarity, cooperation and respect for one another’s roles. The safety and well-being of our young people, and the integrity of our public institutions, are far too important for anything less.
Dan Fox
W Cottage Street
The letter-writer is the chairman of the Marblehead Select Board.
