CANTON — Town Administrator Charles Doody and the Canton Select Board announce that the Town has received the final report from 5 Stones Intelligence regarding the independent audit of the Canton Police Department.
The 5 Stones Intelligence firm formally presented its findings to the Canton community during a public forum at Canton High School on Saturday, April 5.
The Town of Canton accepts the conclusions of the comprehensive audit, which found no evidence of corruption or evidence tampering within the Canton Police Department.
The audit also concluded that Police Chief Helena Rafferty and the command staff are doing a commendable job leading the department and maintaining public safety in the community. The audit team found Chief Rafferty’s approach and decision-making abilities to be effective and that she’s highly respected by department members and law enforcement colleagues.
“We are encouraged by the findings and grateful to 5 Stones Intelligence for their thorough and impartial work,” said Select Board Chair Michael Loughran. “This process was about transparency, accountability, and ensuring that the residents of Canton have full confidence in their police department. We are proud of our officers and leadership for their professionalism and service. I would also like to thank the Police Audit Committee for all the work they have done over the last year and a half.”
The residents of Canton commissioned the police audit and authorized up to $200,000 in funding during a November 2023 Special Town Meeting to comprehensively assess the department’s strengths and identify areas for improvement.
5 Stones Intelligence conducted a thorough review of the Police Department, including crime scene protocols, professional standards, accountability processes, organizational structure, and other operational aspects. This audit included a financial review of overtime expenditures, asset forfeiture expenditures, and police detail finances.
5 Stones Intelligence provided recommendations for changes in the department in several reviewed categories, including professional standards, civilian grievances and accountability, and crime scene protocols. In addition, increased funding for advanced training and additional staffing was recommended.
The Canton Police Department has already taken initial steps to address several of the recommendations and is committed to implementing additional reforms and training to strengthen its operations.
“Implementing these improvements is a top priority for the department, and many of the recommendations have already been put in place,” Chief Rafferty said. “Bringing the totality of recommendations to fruition will necessitate financial support from the town.”
The Select Board is committed to supporting and actively implementing the audit’s recommendations. The Board plans to work with Chief Rafferty, Finance Director William R. Scollins III, Town Administrator Doody, and additional stakeholders to analyze the audit and develop a strategic plan to implement the recommendations.
The Town of Canton thanks all residents who participated in the public forum and remains committed to transparency and excellence in public safety.
The full report is available on the Town of Canton website and can be accessed here.
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