Marblehead Ramps Up Police Chief Search Process

MARBLEHEAD, MA — A dedication to community-based policing, de-escalation strategies and transparency are three traits Marblehead is looking for in candidates to replace retiring police chief Robert Picariello.

Picariello said in September he intended to retire after 35 years with the department — the last 14 as police chief — in July 2021.

The town's job description said it is looking for someone "committed to collaborative leadership" who will work with town leadership to improve the quality of life for all residents and "be able to balance a respect for the long history and tradition of the Marblehead community with a willingness to bring a fresh perspective to the role."

An emphasis on community-based policing, commitment to positive interactions between police and civic and cultural groups and the ability to uphold the town's use-of-force, victim's and witness's assistance and evidence control protocols is required.

The town states: "The selected applicant must take an active role in community conversations around diversity and be ready to listen openly and with empathy to community member experiences."

The new police chief will also be charged with growing and fostering relationships with community groups such as the Anti-Defamation League, Task Force Against Discrimination, Racial Justice Team, Team Harmony and other groups.

Transparency and open communication with town leadership, the media and the community is also listed as "critical." The Marblehead Police Chief will also be charged with embracing the state's police reform legislation and prioritize "de-escalation and disengagement techniques with officers who are in the line of duty."

The next chief will be responsible for updating the Marblehead Police Chief Strategic Plan to lay out the department's specific goals and priorities and objectives over the next five years.

Those interested in the position can find out more details here.

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(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)