TEWKSBURY — The following is a statement from Tewksbury Police Chief Ryan Columbus regarding public safety at Tewksbury State Hospital:
“I am pleased that less-lethal tools, including handcuffs, pepper gel and batons, have been restored for use at Tewksbury State Hospital. This is an important step toward improving safety for staff, first responders, patients, and the surrounding community.
I want to thank Secretary of Public Safety Gina Kwon for her leadership and continued commitment to ensuring that public safety remains a priority throughout this process. Her efforts and willingness to engage in these discussions are appreciated.
While this restoration is a positive development, there is still significant work that must be done to ensure the safety of everyone involved at the facility. Public safety cannot be treated as an afterthought in an environment as complex and potentially dangerous as Tewksbury State Hospital.
On a regular basis, prisoner transport vehicles are dropping off and picking up individuals at the hospital who are involved in the criminal justice system. The Commonwealth cannot ignore or minimize this reality. Transparency and honest discussions about the risks associated with the facility are necessary to develop effective safety policies.
Additionally, there are still areas in the hospital where the Department of Mental Health is not permitting the use of these less-lethal tools. These concerns will continue to be part of ongoing discussions as we work toward policies that properly balance therapeutic goals with the safety and security needs of staff, public safety personnel, patients, and the community.
Our focus remains on ensuring that no one is placed in unnecessary danger and that public safety is given the consideration it deserves.”
