Head Of Somerville Police Union On Leave After Assault Charge

SOMERVILLE, MA — The head of the Somerville police union was placed on unpaid leave after the Middlesex District Attorney's office charged him with assault this week. Officer Michael McGrath pepper-sprayed a person who was already in custody and posed no threat to him, the District Attorney's office said.

McGrath faces one count of one count of assault and battery by means of a dangerous weapon. A criminal complaint was filed against him in Somerville District Court.

The Somerville Police Employees Association identifies McGrath as its president on its website. The union did not respond to a Patch request for comment.

The Somerville Police Department initially placed McGrath on paid leave following the incident last October, saying he made "untruthful statements" to investigators, WBUR reported. He was placed on unpaid administrative leave after charges were brought this week.

"Our officers are entrusted with tremendous responsibilities, and our residents must be confident that every officer will perform those duties to the highest standards, using force only when necessary and according to Departmental training, policy, and the law," Mayor Joseph Curtatone said in a statement. "We have referred this case to the District Attorney, and we will continue to fully cooperate with their investigation."

McGrath is scheduled to be arraigned Nov. 13.