Judge rules cops must stay

A federal judge denied the request of several Somerville police officers to vacate their Washington Street headquarters August 11.

The request was part of a lawsuit filed by officers who said their work conditions are unsanitary and the cause of numerous health problems.

"The plaintiffs have asked this court to order governmental entities and public officials to ‘remove all occupants from the building located at 220 Washington Street.’ The relief sought by plaintiffs must be denied. Such an order would interfere with these entities discretionary duties," said Justice Leila R. Kern in her decision.

One of the plaintiffs, Sergeant John Aufiero, said the ruling would not change his goal of eventually moving the Police Department headquarters.

"This does not change anything. We are still committed to getting our officers out of the building. Of course, we would like to get them out sooner rather than later, but we will move ahead. The next step is to get that building tested and see what exactly is in that location and if it is dangerous to work there," he said.