The Town of Franklin and the Franklin Police Department are pleased to announce that Deputy Police Chief James West has been appointed Franklin’s next Chief of Police. West will assume the position effective Nov. 6, 2026, following the retirement of current Police Chief Thomas Lynch.
West has served with the Franklin Police Department for more than 25 years, joining the department in 2001. He has served in a variety of roles throughout his time in Franklin, including police officer, sergeant, lieutenant and, since 2021, deputy chief. In his current position, West assists with the day-to-day operations of the department and oversees responsibilities including accreditation, media relations, internal affairs and training. He has also helped develop and manage several department programs and initiatives.
“I am truly honored and humbled by the opportunity to lead the Franklin Police Department,” said West. “This department and this community has been an important part of my life for many years, and I do not take the responsibility that comes with this position lightly. I want to thank the Town Council and Town Administrator Jamie Hellen for their confidence in me. I would also like to thank Chief Lynch for his leadership, mentorship and for building the foundation at the FPD. I look forward to continuing that work alongside the men and women of our department.”
West brings extensive law enforcement training and leadership experience. He is a certified instructor with the Massachusetts Municipal Police Training Committee and previously served on the Metro-LEC SWAT & Tactical Response Team. In 2025, West completed the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
Before joining the Franklin Police Department, West served as a police officer with the Winthrop Police Department and as a special police officer for the City of Boston. He began his law enforcement career with the U.S. Customs Service Explorer program at Logan Airport. West also served in the United States Army Reserve before being honorably discharged.
West has received numerous honors for his service and leadership, including the Medal of Valor and Combat Cross from Metro-LEC SWAT, the Franklin Police Department Life Saving Award and the William H. Spurgeon III Leadership Award.
West holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Southern New Hampshire University and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Nichols College.
“Jimmy has dedicated more than two decades to serving the Franklin community, and his experience, leadership and deep understanding of the Police Department make him an excellent choice to serve as our next chief,” said Town Council Chair Robert Dellorco. “The Town Council is confident that he will build on the strong foundation of the department while continuing to prioritize the safety and well-being of our community. We look forward to supporting him as he takes on this important role.”
“After 25 years of working alongside Deputy Chief James West, I know firsthand the character, dedication and leadership he brings to this department and our community,” said Chief Lynch. “I have complete confidence that Jimmy will lead with compassion, courage and integrity, and be an outstanding Chief of Police. He understands the people we serve, the men and women of this department and the responsibility that comes with this position. Knowing him as both a colleague and a friend, I can think of no one better to carry this department forward.”
The Town thanks Chief Lynch for more than 30 years of service and leadership to the Franklin community and looks forward to recognizing his contributions as he concludes his tenure later this fall.
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