Franklin Police Officers Luther and McVicar interview on MyFM in the Morning (audio)

During the Blizzard of ’26, Franklin Police Officers Luther and McVicar stepped up when their community needed them most. After receiving a call from an elderly couple dealing with serious illnesses, the officers responded — only to find the request was for something simple, yet essential: a carton of milk and help clearing their driveway.

Without hesitation, they delivered.

It’s a powerful reminder that being a first responder is about more than emergencies — it’s about showing up for your community in every way possible.

Hear the full story straight from Franklin’s finest in their interview on MyFM in the Morning:

https://soundcloud.com/myfm1013/myfm-in-the-morning-franklin

MyFM1013 · MyFM in the Morning - Franklin Officers Luther & McVicar

Franklin Police welcome Danielle Machado as our newest Co-Response Clinician

Danielle Machado

Please join us in welcoming Danielle Machado to the Franklin Police Department as our newest Co-Response Clinician!

Danielle brings a strong background in crisis response and extensive experience working alongside law enforcement. Most recently, she served as a Co-Response Clinician with the Northbridge and Douglas Police Departments, and frequently supported the Uxbridge and Blackstone Police Departments as well.

In addition to her co-response work, Danielle has experience with mobile crisis services and previously worked at Bradley Hospital, where she provided emergency behavioral health support throughout the community.

Danielle holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from William James College and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Bridgewater State University. She brings strong clinical skills, a positive attitude, and a genuine enthusiasm for getting to know and supporting the Franklin community.

We’re excited to have her join the team!

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GkEMAU4cs/

Danielle backfills an open position created by someone leaving.

Phishing Scam Warning from Franklin Police Dept

Phishing Scam Warning from Franklin Police Dept

"The Town of Franklin has been alerted to fraudulent emails and messages pretending to be from Town officials. These scams attempt to trick people into sending money or sharing sensitive information.

Please remember:

• The Town of Franklin will never request payment by wire transfer.
• Scammers may use the Town’s name, logo, or similar email addresses to appear legitimate.
• Messages may create urgency and ask you to click links, download attachments, or send payment.

What to do:

• Do not click suspicious links or attachments.
• Double-check the sender’s email address.
• If unsure, contact the Town department directly using information on the official Town website.

Stay vigilant and help spread the word."

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DVrgnTdiX3t/

Friendly reminder via Franklin Police: "If you don’t want your stuff stolen, lock it"

Overnight Vehicle Break-Ins 

Franklin PD has received numerous calls regarding car break-ins during the overnight hours. Before everyone pictures smashed windows and Hollywood-style burglars…   here’s the key detail:

Friendly reminder via Franklin Police:
"If you don’t want your stuff stolen, lock it"

None of the vehicles were forcibly broken into. 

Every single one was left unlocked.

These are what we call crimes of opportunity. Someone walks through neighborhoods pulling door handles. If the door opens, they help themselves to loose valuables like wallets, change, electronics, and that Dunkies gift card you got from Gramma for Christmas. 

To help everyone navigate this complicated issue, we’ve included a very advanced flow chart.

After extensive research, it reaches one very important conclusion: You should lock your car.

Because according to the chart…

If you don’t want your stuff stolen, lock it. 

We promise…  it works 100% of the time when used.

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/16FdUM8Nwx/

Franklin Police ready for good weather, provide a friendly reminder

"You guys… I looked ahead at the forecast and I see hope. Real, actual hope. March 10th is showing temps above 60… 61 to be exact. SIXTY-ONE. I immediately dug out my pool floatie because I am not wasting a single second of that tropical heat. If you see me floating down the street, mind your business. I’ve waited months for this moment. 

But I do come with another useful tip and trick that, unfortunately, I did not think I’d have to say… yet here we are. If there’s a 5-foot snowbank on one side of the road, and a 5-foot snowbank on the other side of the road, and the road is already tight… parking on both sides is not the move. It makes the road impassable and unfortunately emergency vehicles do not have a  flying feature yet.

So please don’t be that person. Help keep the roads passable so traffic (and plows, and emergency vehicles, and people trying to get to Dunkin’) can get through. Work with us so we can work with you.

Spring is coming. Don’t make us tow your car before we can all emotionally recover"

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CP6mVUYzG/

Franklin Police Dept: Token of Appreciation for officers in action

Today (02/24/26), an elderly couple battling serious illnesses contacted the Police Department after becoming trapped inside their home by approximately 18 inches of snow blocking both their doors. Unable to get out and in need of assistance, they called us for help.

Officer Luther and Officer McVicar responded and made contact with the homeowners. After ensuring both residents were safe, the officers helped coordinate a plow company to clear access to the home and provided information about our local food pantry should additional support be needed.

Before clearing the call, Officers Luther and McVicar learned the couple were running low on milk. Without hesitation, the officers went to the store and purchased a gallon to make sure they had what they needed until they could safely leave their home.

Policing is not just about responding to emergencies — it’s about serving our community with compassion, especially during challenging times.

Great job, Officer Luther and Officer McVicar. Your actions truly reflect the heart of this department.

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DVJ3anfk1bq/

Storm alert and safety prep via Franklin Police Dept.

via Franklin Police Dept

"We’re fine. Everything is fine. Things are going great… 

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT – WINTER STORM WARNING 

A significant winter storm is expected to impact our area beginning Sunday night and continuing into Monday. Conditions may deteriorate quickly, and residents are urged to prepare now.

Storm alert and safety prep via Franklin Police Dept.

What to Expect:

• Heavy snow developing Sunday night

• Strong, gusty winds

• Possible blizzard conditions

• Periods of whiteout visibility

• Dangerous to near-impossible travel

• Potential power outages due to heavy, wet snow and strong winds

Storm Timeline:

• Sunday (Daytime): Mostly cloudy; storm developing late
• Sunday Evening/Night: Snow becomes heavy; winds increasing
• Monday: Snow continues with strong winds; blizzard conditions possible before gradually tapering

What You Can Do Now:

 • Charge all electronic devices

 • Prepare for possible power outages

 • Avoid unnecessary travel Sunday night into Monday

 • Check on elderly neighbors and vulnerable residents

 • Remove vehicles from roadways to allow plows to operate safely

Parking ban information will be shared as soon as it becomes available.

Please plan ahead, stay informed, and prioritize safety."

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/1KXeHvNBHT/

Franklin Police Complete Annual Mental Health Training

Via Franklin Police Dept:

Franklin Police Complete Annual Mental Health Training

Today (2/12/26), the Department concluded its annual Mental Health Training, led by the head of our Co-Response Program, Clinician Kallie Montagano.

Officers received continued instruction on the Section 12 process and had the opportunity to hear from guest speakers representing Tri-Valley Elder Services, Foundations Group Recovery Centers, and the Department of Children and Families.

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/1A76QcE2Bm/

Franklin Police Update on motor vehicle stop on Monday, Feb 9

1.     On Monday, February 9, 2026, at approximately 11:43 AM, Franklin Police Officers responded to a business on East Central Street for a report of an erratic motor vehicle operator. It was reported that the operator of a sedan entered a business on East Central Street, caused a disturbance, and then left in the vehicle. As he left the business, he struck several vehicles in the parking lot. Shortly after being dispatched, a Franklin Police Officer located the sedan on East Central Street and conducted a motor vehicle stop. The vehicle and operator were known to the Franklin Police Department. The driver was identified as a 59-year-old Franklin resident.

Franklin Police Update on motor vehicle stop on Monday, Feb 9

2.     After initially stopping, the operator placed the vehicle in drive and led Officers on a short, low-speed pursuit down King Street. The operator continued toward the Interstate 495 ramps, where he briefly stopped again. Officers attempted to issue verbal commands for the operator to exit the vehicle; however, the operator accelerated at a high rate of speed and entered Interstate 495 South. Due to the excessive speeds and unsafe driving conditions, Officers terminated the pursuit and notified the Massachusetts State Police.

3.     Approximately 20 minutes later, the Metacomet Emergency Communications Center (MECC) notified Officers that the sedan was involved in a serious motor vehicle crash with a pickup truck in Mansfield. The crash resulted in the pickup truck operator being ejected from their vehicle. The pickup truck operator was transported to a hospital with serious injuries. The operator of the sedan was also transported to a hospital with serious injuries. Additional information regarding the crash can be found on the Mansfield Police Department’s Facebook page. Criminal charges related to the crash are expected to be filed by the Mansfield Police Department upon completion of their investigation.

4.     At this time, the Franklin Police Department intends to seek criminal complaints through the Wrentham District Court against the operator of the sedan for the following charges:

• · Leaving the Scene of an Accident
• · Failure to Stop for Police
• · Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle
• · Speeding
• · Marked Lanes Violation
• · Red Light Violation
• · Disorderly Conduct

Shared from -  https://www.facebook.com/share/1WSJ97YTPm/

Franklin MA: Storm Center Collection for Jan 25 - 26, 2026

This page will get updated with additions and/or changes as the storm situation evolves. 

11:45am 1/25/26

Senior Center robocall with announcement of closure on Monday, Jan 26 due to the storm and other storm related updates -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/01/town-of-franklin-senior-center-update.html

11:00am 1/25/26

Town of Franklin robocall with DPW Director Brutus Cantoreggi delivering the messages https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/01/town-of-franklin-robocall-with-dpw.html

With the Town and School buildings closed on Monday, the meetings scheduled for Monday are also canceled and to be rescheduled.

10:45am 1/25/26

• Franklin Public Schools are cancelled on Monday, January 26, 2026, due to the forecasted winter storm and its expected duration   https://www.franklinps.net/live-feed#11182762

10:30am  1/25/26

• BFCCPS announces school closed for Monday, 1/26/26  https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1ATnLZH5gj/
• Teddy Gallagher's Closed for today
• Children's Museum of Franklin announces they are closed on Monday, 1/26
• FPSC performance of Steel Magnolia cancelled for today, contact box office to get refund

From Massachusetts Emergency Mgt Assoc (MEMA)

"With temperatures across Massachusetts forecast to be dangerously cold on Friday night and Saturday, if you or someone you know needs shelter from the cold, you can call 2-1-1 or reach out to your local public safety officials to find the nearest warming center."

More extreme cold safety tips: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/extreme-cold-safety-tips

"With a significant winter storm forecast to bring 12+ inches of snow to much of Massachusetts on Sunday and Monday, it's time to prepare. 

• Plan ahead for possible power outages. Fully charge your cellphone, laptop and any essential electronic devices before the storm. 

• Ensure you have extra batteries for medical equipment and assistive devices. 

• Take stock of your emergency kit and ensure it includes seasonal supplies, such as extra winter clothing and blankets."

❄️❄️❄️

For more safety tips visit mass.gov/mema/snow

"As a significant winter storm approaches, individuals with disabilities may experience additional challenges especially for those who rely on mobility aids, personal assistance, or durable medical equipment.

Keep in mind these safety tips to plan for everyone's needs and always remember to check on your neighbors!"

Additional information can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/MEMA26afn

From Franklin Police Dept:

"Community Warming Center Open: St. Mary's Church of Milford and Pathway to a Better Life are coming together to keep our community safe during the upcoming extreme cold and snowfall.

• Opening: Friday, January 23rd at 4pm
• Closing: Monday, January 26th at loam

(May extend through Tuesday, January 27th at 10 am)

If you or someone you know needs warmth — Unhoused, Living in a vehicle, No heat, Frozen pipes Any cold-weather emergency call Lisa at 508-92"

Warming center link - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Bkhx3PwU5/

Parking ban reminder

"Repeat after me…

Milk, bread, and don’t park your car on the street when it’s expected to snow over a foot because the plows cannot properly clear the roads when you do that and your car will get ticketed and towed

Again

Milk, bread, and don’t park your car on the street when it’s expected to snow over a foot because the plows cannot properly clear the roads when you do that and your car will get ticketed and towed"

Parking ban link -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HmegqoafR/

From Franklin DPW: 

Winter Storm Parking Ban

01/25/2026 12:00 PM to 01/26/2026 12:00 PM

A winter storm parking ban is in effect from 12:00 noon on 01/25/2026 until 12:00 noon on 01/26/2026.

During this period, parking of any motor vehicle is prohibited:

- within the right-of-way of any public street or roadway open to the public, and

- on any municipality owned property.

Purpose:

- Ensure safe movement of police, fire, and emergency medical vehicles;

- Facilitate efficient snow and ice removal by the Public Works Department;

- Protect public safety during winter weather conditions.

Penalty:

- Violators will be fined $25 for each offense.

Please move vehicles before 12:00 PM on 01/25/2026 to avoid fines and to help emergency services and snow-removal operations.

How to avoid frozen pipes

"Disconnect outside hoses and turn the water off at the valve inside your home.

Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

Open kitchen & bathroom doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.

• When the weather is very cold outside. let the COLP WATCR ONLY drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.

If your pipe runs through the attic or crawl space, open the door to allow warmer air to now in.

• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By

temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures. you may incur a higher

heating bill. but you can prevent a much mote costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.

If you will be going to be away in cold weather, leave the heat on"

Frozen pipe alert link https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1aU13EppZz/

UPDATE! Curbside Trash/Recycling

"Due to the predicted large amount of snow to fall tomorrow Sunday January 25th and Monday January 26th, 2026, your scheduled trash and recycling pick up will be delayed one day.

So, Monday trash and recycling will be picked up on Tuesday.

Tuesday trash and recycling will be picked up on Wednesday

Wednesday trash and recycling will be picked up on Thursday

Thursday trash and recycling will be picked up on Friday

Friday trash and recycling will be picked up Saturday!"

Curbside schedule change for next week https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1bgpchiWBD/

Franklin MA: Storm Center Collection for Jan 25 - 26, 2026 

Closed or Early Closing for Sunday, January 25, 2026

• Franklin Historical Museum - Closed   https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BzBUk73mz/
• Children's Museum of Franklin - closing at 12:30 PM  https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16sthCnPYP/
• 
  

Franklin Police Chief Lynch says thanks to the Franklin community for "your patience, understanding and support "

For the past two days the Town of Franklin has hosted the funeral services for Stephen A. LaPorta, an Uxbridge Police Officer who passed away tragically on January 7, 2026 while responding to multiple motor vehicle crashes on Route 146.  Thousands of mourners were expected to attend the services throughout the two days and as you can imagine, the planning for the services for a police officer killed in the line of duty is an extraordinary undertaken. 

Franklin Police Chief Lynch says thanks to the Franklin community for "your patience, understanding and support "

The Franklin Police Department was honored to assist in providing a safe and organized venue so the LaPorta family, the Uxbridge Police Department, the greater Uxbridge community, friends, and law enforcement officers from throughout the country could pay their respects to a public safety hero who gave his life in service to others. 

This extraordinary undertaking would not have been possible without the support, understanding and flexibility of the entire Franklin community.  A long list of organizations, agencies and town departments were requested and graciously agreed to provide direct support or alter their operations and schedules to assist in this endeavor. The members of these various entities had to adjust to changed schedules or cancellations.  The entire community was affected by the road closures, detours and increased traffic.

On behalf of the LaPorta family, the Uxbridge Police Department, the greater Uxbridge community and the Franklin Police Department; I want to thank the Town of Franklin for your patience, understanding and support over these last two days. 

Thank You!

Thomas J. Lynch

Chief of Police

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HYexa5Gxa/

Franklin Police share info on road closures & timing for Weds/Thurs wake & funeral at St Mary's

The following information pertains to the upcoming wake and funeral services for Officer Stephen A. LaPorta. A significant police presence is expected in the vicinity of St. Mary’s Church and the Franklin Town Common during these services. Road closures and traffic detours will be in effect.

Residents and motorists are encouraged to seek alternate routes and avoid the area if possible. We recognize that these disruptions may be inconvenient, particularly for those who live nearby, and we sincerely appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation.

Your understanding and support will help ensure a dignified and respectful farewell for Officer LaPorta and his family.

Franklin Police share info on road closures & timing for Weds/Thurs wake & funeral at St Mary's

Wake:

• St. Mary’s Church, 1 Church Square, Franklin, MA, Wednesday, January 14th, from 2p-6p.  
• Church square and surrounding streets will be closed from approximately 11am - 7pm.  

Funeral:

• St. Mary’s Church, 1 Church Square, Franklin, MA, Thursday, January 15 at 11am.  
• Church square and surrounding streets will be closed from approximately 9am - 2pm.  

Road Closures:

• Church Square

• Beaver St from West Central St to Church Square

• Union St from School St to Church Square

• Daniel McCahill St. from Church Square to Senior Center

• Main St from School St to Highland St

• Pleasant St from Moore Ave/Hillside Rd to Church Square

• Crescent St, Garfield, Martin, and Queen will be limited access

Parking / Staging Areas:

• Public Parking: 

o Davis Thayer School, 109 W. Central Street, Franklin;

o Dean College Campus Center lot (located next to Davis Thayer on W. Central Street);

o Dean College Jones Lot off of School Street;

o Dean Hall Lot off of Emmons Street

Shuttle buses will be provided for those with difficulty walking.

• Police Staging (Officers will be bused to church):

o 55 Constitution Blvd, Franklin

o Wake staging opens at 10am.  Busing starts at 11am.  Police walk through is at 1:45 pm.

o Funeral staging opens at 7am.  Busing starts at 8 am.  

• Media Parking:

o Franklin Federated Church, 171 Main Street, Franklin

Download a copy of the Police press release as a reminder or to share

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fLbrc8XFVc-2rgphjId7PENwAGK6k0MW/view?usp=drive_link

Franklin Police with a New Year reminder (or two)

Franklin Police with a New Year reminder (or two)

"Here’s your friendly New Year reminder to…LOCK YOUR CARS!

If it's not already on your New Year's resolution list, make sure to add, “I will not have my car stolen!”"

Shared from ->   https://www.facebook.com/share/1Cd8YTQAes/

Franklin Police Facebook page ->   https://www.facebook.com/franklinmapolice

Storm brings power outages, downed trees; Clean up and restorations continue this morning

Our household and neighborhood had power restored at 4 AM Saturday morning, an outage of approx. 17 hours. At the peak of the outages, streets were blocked with downed trees. Police and Fire units were active in responding. 

"Good morning,

I wanted to provide an update on the power outage situation from overnight into this morning.

I did not want to send emails throughout the night; however, please be assured that we were actively monitoring conditions and remained in close contact with National Grid throughout the event.

As of approximately 4:30 AM, there were about 1,600 households without power. By 6:30 AM this morning, that number had been reduced to approximately 600 locations still without power. National Grid continues to work on restoring service to the remaining customers.

I hope these updates have been helpful to you as you field questions from residents. I understand that some residents were looking for more detailed information and exact restoration timelines. I want to stress that we share all information as soon as it is provided to us by National Grid.

To recap, although there were multiple individual power lines down within our community the primary cause of the widespread outage was damage that occurred outside of town. National Grid advised that the root cause was a failure of a power transfer loop at a substation. This substation failure impacted four communities. The large-scale outage was due to the substation issue, not individual line failures.

Throughout the night, our crews kept up with demand and responded to calls for service as power was restored. There were no major incidents reported overnight.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely as the morning progresses and provide updates as necessary.

Please feel free to reach out if you need any additional information."

Fire Chief & Emergency Management Manager Charles Allen

And 

"Good morning,

The Department of Public Works has crews out this morning continuing with debris cleanup around town.

The good news is that we did not need to salt the roads, which saved municipal funds.

Have a great week!"

Robert Cantoreggi

Director, Department of Public Works

The NationalGrid outage map as of 7:30 this morning

The NationalGrid outage map as of 7:30 this morning

Franklin Police: Deputy Chief James West Graduates from FBI National Academy

On December 12, 2025, Chief Thomas Lynch announced that Deputy Chief James West has graduated as a member of the 296th session of the FBI National Academy. The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, on December 11th, 2025. Deputy Chief West is the fourth officer in department history to complete this prestigious program. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

 

Deputy Chief James West

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 11 weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.

The 296th session consisted of two hundred and fifty-four law enforcement officers who graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. The 296th session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 24 countries, four military organizations, and two federal civilian organizations.

Deputy Chief West started his law enforcement career in Winthrop, MA in 1996 before transferring to the Franklin Police Department in 2001. He rose through the ranks and served as Sergeant, Lieutenant and currently holds the rank of Deputy Chief of Police. Deputy Chief West has also served on the Metropolitan Law Enforcement Council Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT) and served as an academy drill instructor for many years for the Massachusetts Municipal Police Training Committee.

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DSSw5z5iXS0/

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Saturday, December 13, 2025 ???

Saturday, December 13

9:00am Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)

9:00am Library Book Sale (Franklin Public Library)

9:00am St Mary's Women’s Faith Formation Meeting (St. Mary's Parish)

9:00am Winter Coat Giveaway (Franklin United Methodist Church)

10:00am A-Wreath-of-Franklin celebration (THE BLACK BOX)

10:00am Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

10:00am Pictures with Santa (Franklin Police Department)

10:30am Jamie Barrett (live music) (Franklin Public Library)

10:30am Pancakes & pajamas (Franklin Public Library)

1:00pm Library Books by the Bag Sale (Franklin Public Library)

4:00pm Holiday Stories & Sing-a-Long (Franklin United Methodist Church)

7:30pm Jamie Barrett (live music) (Morin's Hometown Bar & Grille, Attleboro)

8:00pm Karaoke at The Raillery (Raillery Public House)

For additional details on A Wreath of Franklin, please visit the event page ->   https://franklinartsculture.my.canva.site/wreath25-program-site

** NO  Town Meetings today   **

------------

Find the full Community event calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx
The School district calendar is found  https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar