Police Chief Search Committee reopening recruitment for Somerville’s next Chief of Police

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville’s Police Chief Search Committee are announcing that the city’s search for the next Chief of the Somerville Police Department (SPD) will continue. 

After the initial round of interviews recently completed did not result in a successful hire, the process is reopening. The Police Chief Search Committee will continue working with GovHR– an industry-leading expert in executive recruitment – on a rigorous nationwide search for candidates. Acting SPD Chief Charlie Femino will continue to lead the Somerville Police Department until a suitable candidate is found. 

The City will continue to prioritize stakeholder engagement as it continues the search for the best candidates for Somerville’s unique needs as a municipality and community. More updates will be shared about engagement opportunities and the hiring process as next steps are pursued.

Background on Somerville’s Police Chief Search Process

Somerville Chief of Police David Fallon retired from the Somerville Police force in December 2020 after 21 years of service. Chief Charles Femino accepted the role of Acting Chief at that time taking on pandemic public safety emergency response duties as well as the ongoing work of the department. 

Somerville established a Police Chief Search Committee, consisting of constituents, subject matter experts, local elected officials, and City staff, to lead the community driven search. In February 2023, the City selected GovHR to lead the nationwide search to identify candidates with the requisite experience and principles to lead SPD. The firm has over 30 years of experience recruiting for leadership positions in the public-sector and shares Somerville’s commitment to equity, diversity, and accessibility. GovHR has successfully recruited for almost 80 Chief of Police roles in 14 states.  

To learn more about the City of Somerville’s Police Chief search, please visit somervillema.gov/policechief.