Crime & Safety

Brookline Town Administrator Calls Chief's Choice 'Disappointing'

Brookline Police Chief Andrew Lipson told the Select Board on Friday he is resigning from the position.

Brookline Police Chief Andrew Lipson told the Select Board on Friday he is resigning from the position.
Brookline Police Chief Andrew Lipson told the Select Board on Friday he is resigning from the position. (Jenna Fisher/Patch)

BROOKLINE, MA β€” Brookline Town Administrator Mel Kleckner called Andrew Lipson's decision to resign as the town's police chief "unexpected and disappointing news" in a statement released on Saturday.

Kleckner released the statement one day after Lipson sent a letter to Kleckner and the Select Board informing them of his intention to resign effective Sept. 1.

In the letter, Lipson said he hopes to return to his previous position as deputy superintendent.

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"This was unexpected and disappointing news, but we must accept Mr. Lipson’s decision about what he believes is best," Kleckner said. "I am grateful for his contributions as chief of police and have no doubt he will continue to advocate for positive change in policing going forward."

In his resignation letter, Lipson said: "I feel fortunate to have served in this capacity in the town I grew up in and as part of a community that is capable of doing so many good things. However, it is untenable to remain in this position."

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