Announcement from the Office of Mayor Melinda Barrett regarding Stephen Doherty
Announcement from the Office of Melinda Barrett, Mayor of Haverhill
Haverhill, MA – July 28, 2026 – The City of Haverhill and Deputy Chief of Police, Stephen J. Doherty, have entered into a separation of employment agreement effective July 17, 2026. The agreement keeps Mr. Doherty on paid administrative leave, with benefits, until the separation date of March 27, 2027, at which time he will resign or retire from the force in good standing.
The agreement also includes several provisions including payment of contractual benefits due to Deputy Chief Doherty as well as a release by both parties from any claims or disputes therefore avoiding any future litigation.
Melinda Barrett, Mayor of the City of Haverhill said, “This agreement is an important step forward in resolving management matters within the police department. With Chief Tracy’s appointment as permanent Police Chief last month, we can now finalize the department’s leadership team and continue with the excellent progress and stability the department has achieved over the past eight-plus months.
Funds to cover the contractual obligations (vacation leave, sick leave buy back, time due balance and personal leave accruals), which total just over $116,000, will come from the City’s reserve account. Doherty’s salary and benefits for the balance of time that he is on paid administrative leave will be paid from the police department salary line.
Memorandum of Agreement and Release of Claims COH And Stephen Doherty 7. 2026
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