NORFOLK — The Norfolk Police Department has completed an independent investigation into allegations involving former Deputy Chief Michelle Palladini and former Sgt. Samuel Webb.
Chief James Barrett ordered the review after concerns were raised regarding the handling of a 2023 internal affairs investigation and subsequent allegations of misconduct. The Town of Norfolk retained the services of retired Carver Police Chief Arthur A. Parker Jr. of Billingsgate Associates LLC to conduct the investigation. This ensured that the final determination would be thorough, impartial and independent.
The investigation identified numerous violations of Department policies and procedures by both former employees. Among the findings were that an inappropriate personal relationship created significant conflicts of interest, compromised the integrity of a prior internal affairs investigation, and resulted in conduct inconsistent with the standards expected of Norfolk police officers.
The investigation also found that Webb engaged in additional misconduct unrelated to the relationship, including improper conduct toward subordinate employees and other policy violations.
Neither individual remains employed by the Norfolk Police Department. Chief Barrett has forwarded the investigative findings to the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission and has recommended that both former officers be decertified.
“Our residents must trust that the Norfolk Police Department operates at the highest levels of professionalism, honesty, and integrity. No employee is above accountability. When trust is broken, we must address it openly and thoroughly,” said Chief Barrett. “These allegations were incredibly serious, and I believed they deserved an impartial review. With the review complete, we have taken every action available to us, including referring the findings to the POST Commission.”
“The conduct outlined in the independent report is deeply troubling and falls far short of the standards the Town expects from its public employees, particularly those entrusted with leadership,” said Town Administrator Rob Garrity. “I appreciate Chief Barrett’s commitment to conducting an independent, thorough review and taking appropriate action. Transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining the public’s trust, and the Town of Norfolk remains committed to both.”
As this is a personnel matter, the Norfolk Police Department and Town of Norfolk will have no further comment.
(Click here for the redacted internal affairs investigation report.)
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