(Additional photographs below.)
Meaghan Paré was formally sworn in Tuesday as deputy chief of the Haverhill Police Department, saying she does not take her new responsibility lightly.
Haverhill City Clerk Kaitlin M. Wright Esposito administered the oath of office to Paré in the Theodore A. Pelosi Jr. Council Chambers in City Hall, filled with fellow officers, family, friends, department heads and other officials. After being sworn in, Paré pointedly thanked Mayor Melinda E. Barrett, Police Chief Wayne J. Tracy, members of the City Council, the men and women of the police department and her family, starting with the mayor.
“As I step into this new role, I hope to emulate that same dedication and passion—always putting the people we serve first and giving this job everything I have,” she said.
She pledged support for officers she called the “meat and potatoes” of the department, joking, “And being Irish, you know how much I love my meat and potatoes.” Paré also took time to stand with her husband, retired Massachusetts State Police Major Scott Paré and father, Kevin M. Buckley. She had served as acting deputy police chief since last October.
Tracy said he and Paré joined the force at the same time, 23 or 24 years ago, and reassured rank and file officers she understands their needs. “She’s a cop’s cop. She did the job. She made the arrests. She worked every day. I say that so you understand she’s been in your shoes and she understands what it’s like out there.”
Barrett also addressed officers who now serve under a new police administration.
“Now we can make sure you are healthy and safe also—emotionally, physically, mentally. This is the right team, I believe with all my heart, that this is the right place to be and go forward,” she said.
Sgt. Ryan J. Barbera takes the oath of office. (WHAV News photograph.)
Haverhill Police Patrolman’s Association President Conor Clark noted that under Tracy and Paré recruitment numbers are up. “Individuals want to come here. Guys aren’t afraid to do the job. They know that we have the backing of administration.”
Ryan J. Barbera, who joined the department as a patrolman in 2018, was also sworn in as sergeant. Tracy said Barbera meets all of the qualifications to undertake his new duties. “I have full confidence that you will be able to help us build a culture that we’re trying to build here. Congratulations!”
Ward 5 Councilor Shaun P. Toohey represented the City Council during the ceremonies.
Haverhill Deputy Police Chief Meaghan Paré takes the oath of office as Police Chief Wayne J. Tracy looks on. (WHAV News photograph.)
From left, Ward 5 City Councilor Shaun P. Toohey, Mayor Melinda E. Barrett, Deputy Police Chief Meaghan Paré and Police Chief Wayne J. Tracy. (WHAV News photograph.)