Salem Police Chief Resigns Amid Clash With Town Officials

SALEM, NH — Salem Police Chief Paul Donovan, who served since 2001, announced his resignation after clashing with town officials. A recent town audit detailed apparent issues with the police department, ranging from Town Manager Chris 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 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."

Donovan announced his retirement in a news release.

"The Town and I have agreed to resolve our differences, and move forward," Donovan said. He said he will leave Dec. 31.

"We have brought the department to the highest level of professionalism and provided outstanding service to our community," Donovan added. "We have made incredible strides together, and the Town of Salem and its citizens have benefited greatly."

The Salem Board of Selectmen is expected to name an interim chief in the coming weeks. The board is also working with Dillon to appoint a civilian police administrator to address issues cited in the audit.

"The men and women that work for the police department are dedicated and hardworking," Dillon said in a statement. "I have met with them and they recognize improvements need to be made and will work with the civilian administrator to address the recommendations identified in the report."

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