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Douglas Sterniolo sworn in as Acton police chief; vows to prioritize wellness and community partnerships
Summary
Douglas Sterniolo was sworn in as chief of the Acton Police Department in a ceremony where town leaders highlighted his 26-year career, accreditation work and training background. Sterniolo said he will prioritize first-responder wellness, expanded training and stronger community ties.
Douglas Sterniolo was sworn in as chief of the Acton Police Department at a town ceremony in Acton, Massachusetts.
Lieutenant Chris Hodges opened the event and described the swearing-in as "a promise, a formal public commitment to serve and protect the Acton community with integrity, courage, and compassion," thanking local public-safety partners and Sterniolo's family for attending.
Town Manager John Manjurati, who appointed Sterniolo a few weeks earlier, praised his record in Acton. "Doug began his career here in Acton in 2000," Manjurati said, describing Sterniolo's service in patrol, as a sergeant, lieutenant, detective lieutenant, deputy chief and interim chief. Manjurati also credited Sterniolo with guiding the department through accreditation work and championing officer wellness programs.
Deputy Town Manager Tom Begian administered the oath of office. After repeating the oath responses, Sterniolo accepted the role formally and then had his badge pinned by his wife.
In remarks after the oath, Sterniolo thanked the town manager, the select board, colleagues and family, and reflected on his career. He described a commitment to modernize policing within the department, strengthen community partnerships and expand training and support for staff. "I want to prioritize first responder wellness, very big priority for me," Sterniolo said, adding that he supports proactive policing and improved training.
Sterniolo noted training credentials including attendance at the FBI National Academy and involvement with department wellness efforts now called ACE. He said those experiences inform his approach to officer wellness and to building trust across generations of officers and the community.
He also recounted early steps in his public-safety career, including time at the Boxborough Fire Department and the influence of family members in emergency services.
The ceremony closed with congratulations from officials and applause from the assembled colleagues and community partners. Sterniolo said he looks forward to leading the department and working with town staff and residents to meet the challenges of modern public safety.
