On September 27, Newton Police Chief John Carmichael officially resigned from his role, at the end of a three-month leave of absence that began in May for personal reasons. In a letter to the Newton community, Carmichael noted that the purpose of that leave was related to his health, and in resigning he cited his desire to focus on his health, family, and new opportunities.
“After more than 35 years of a life in public service, I have made the personal decision to embark on the next chapter of my life and career,” Carmichael wrote. He reflected on his time in law enforcement, describing it as an honor and privilege to be part of what he called “the noblest profession.” He highlighted his accomplishments, which in Newton included creating community engagement programs, managing critical incidents, fostering mental wellness initiatives for officers, and creating co-response teams of officers and mental-health clinicians for crisis response.
Carmichael also extended his thanks to Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, Newton police personnel, and the Newton community. “I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be your police chief,” he stated, while also expressing appreciation for Acting Chief George McMains, who has stepped into the leadership role.
Carmichael came to Newton after more than a decade as Deputy Chief and Chief of the Walpole Police Department. Among the 19 police chiefs in Newton’s 150-year history, Carmichael is only the second chief to be appointed from outside the department. The first was Chief Jose Cordeiro, from New York City, who served Newton in 2002-2004.
Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, who appointed Carmichael in June 2021, praised his contributions to the department and the community. “I have great respect for Chief Carmichael and deep gratitude for his service to the Newton Police Department and our community,” she wrote in her newsletter to the Newton community. Fuller highlighted the positive impact Carmichael had on the department, noting his enhancement of community engagement and his commitment to the principles of 21st Century Policing.
In her statement, Mayor Fuller emphasized Carmichael’s focus on supporting both uniformed and civilian staff. “He worked on many fronts to support employee wellness and mental health,” Fuller wrote, noting his efforts to expand officer wellness programs and enhance facilities at police headquarters.
Carmichael led efforts to align the NPD’s policies with the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission, ensuring officers are certified and trained to uphold both state and national standards. Fuller credited him with helping Newton navigate complex challenges with a compassionate and respectful approach, underpinned by his deep respect for constitutional rights.
As the City begins the process of finding a new police chief, Mayor Fuller extended her gratitude to Acting Chief McMains for stepping up in an “effective, exemplary, and selfless” manner. On behalf of Newton, she wished Carmichael well in his future endeavors and thanked him for his service.