This Mass. police department has had three different chiefs in just three days

The Haverhill Police Department appointed a new acting chief on Friday, only a day after appointing Stephen Doherty to the position.

The decision came after Haverhill Mayor Melinda Barrett had a “lengthy and detailed discussion” with police union representatives where she learned “new information,” she explained in a Saturday statement.

“Effective immediately, I placed Acting Chief Stephen Doherty on paid administrative leave and appointed Capt. Wayne Tracy as Acting Chief,” Barrett said. “I believe these changes are in the best interests of both the department and the community.”

Doherty was appointed on Thursday as acting chief following former Police Chief Robert Pistone’s retirement, which occurred hours after he was placed on leave due to a no-confidence vote by city police unions.

Haverhill Police Department has been rocked in recent weeks by the death of Officer Katelyn Tully, whom Doherty referenced by name in a statement released after his appointment.

“I recognize that this tragedy, combined with the daily challenges of policing in today’s world, has placed enormous strain on our officers. Many are hurting, tired and asking for help,” Doherty said.

The police department has also come under scrutiny following the death of Francis Gigliotti, 43, in July, who died while officers restrained him. The medical examiner’s office ruled Gigilotti’s death a homicide, and his family called for criminal prosecution.

After Gigliotti’s death, Pistone placed seven officers on leave, including Tully, her father, John Tully, told The Eagle Tribune.

“She died from a stress heart attack, is what we’re assuming right now,” Retired Lawrence Police officer John Tully told the paper.

An independent investigation into departmental operations is expected to begin on Thursday and will include “full support and participation” from police department members, Barret said in her statement.