Westborough, Mass. – The town’s police chief, Todd Minardi, is currently on paid administrative leave while the Westborough Police Department conducts an internal investigation into an incident that occurred early this weekend.
Incident details
Shrewsbury police officers were responding to a well‑being check on a man who had been sleeping in his car in a parking lot. While on the scene, they discovered an unmarked police cruiser parked outside a liquor store on Route 9. Inside the vehicle was Chief Minardi, who an officer described as “hammered drunk.”
The officer noted several physical signs of intoxication: “His eyes were red, bloodshot, and glassy. His speech was slow, slurred, and a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was coming from his breath.” Two empty bottles of vodka were also found in the cruiser.
Chief’s account
According to the police report, the chief’s wife had reported him missing for two days. When officers arrived, Minardi told them he was on vacation and that the vehicle’s keys had not been in the ignition since he arrived. The initial call had been for a different individual who had been sleeping in a car since Thursday; that car was turned off and not running.
Medical response and leave
After the officers spoke with Minardi, he was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. The town’s police department subsequently placed him on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of its investigation.
Next steps
Westborough officials have not released a timeline for the investigation or indicated any potential disciplinary actions beyond the current leave status. The department’s internal affairs unit will review the police report, officer statements, and any additional evidence to determine whether departmental policies were violated.
Community members and local leaders have expressed concern about the incident, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public trust in law‑enforcement. The town’s mayor and city council have pledged to keep residents informed as the investigation proceeds.
Background
Chief Minardi has served with the Westborough Police Department for several years, overseeing day‑to‑day operations and community‑policing initiatives. The department, like many municipal agencies, operates under the oversight of the town’s Board of Selectmen and the Police Commission.
Police departments across the state have faced increased scrutiny in recent years, and incidents involving senior officers often prompt calls for transparency and accountability. Westborough’s handling of this matter will be watched closely by neighboring communities and state officials.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
