North Andover Police Chief Placed on Paid Leave

Chief Charles Gray requested leave amid no-confidence vote by police unions

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:56am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police badge or handcuffs against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A police investigation into allegations of misconduct by the North Andover police chief exposes deep divisions within the department.Boston Today

The police chief of North Andover, Massachusetts, Charles Gray, has been placed on paid administrative leave at his own request while the town conducts an independent investigation into issues raised in a no-confidence vote by the local police unions. The unions cited a 'toxic culture of vindictiveness and professional stagnation' under Gray's leadership, as well as his failure to provide body-worn cameras for officers despite their support for the technology.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing tensions between police leadership and rank-and-file officers, as well as the importance of transparency and accountability measures like body-worn cameras in building public trust in law enforcement. The investigation could have significant implications for Gray's future as police chief.

The details

In a letter to the North Andover Select Board, Gray acknowledged the no-confidence votes and said he has requested the town conduct a 'full and independent investigation into the allegations.' He suggested he be placed on leave to 'avoid even an appearance of influencing the investigation.' Gray expressed confidence that the probe will 'exonerate me of the allegations made and will confirm the appropriateness of my conduct and decision-making.'

  • On April 16, 2026, the North Andover police unions issued a no-confidence vote in Chief Charles Gray's leadership.
  • On April 17, 2026, Gray requested to be placed on paid administrative leave while the town investigates the unions' allegations.

The players

Charles Gray

The police chief of North Andover, Massachusetts, who has been placed on paid administrative leave at his own request amid a no-confidence vote by the local police unions.

North Andover Police Unions

The local police unions in North Andover that issued a no-confidence vote in Chief Charles Gray's leadership, citing a 'toxic culture of vindictiveness and professional stagnation' under his tenure.

North Andover Select Board

The governing body of North Andover that will oversee the independent investigation into the allegations against Police Chief Charles Gray.

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What they’re saying

“We can no longer remain silent while operating under a toxic culture of vindictiveness and professional stagnation. This vote is not about wages, benefits or other traditional labor issues – it is the unavoidable consequence of years of failed leadership, no leadership, and outright inaction.”

— North Andover Police Unions

“I have the utmost confidence that a thorough and impartial investigation will exonerate me of the allegations made and will confirm the appropriateness of my conduct and decision-making.”

— Charles Gray, Police Chief

What’s next

The North Andover Select Board will oversee the independent investigation into the allegations against Police Chief Charles Gray, with the results expected to be announced within the next 60 days.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between police leadership and rank-and-file officers, as well as the importance of transparency and accountability measures like body-worn cameras in maintaining public trust in law enforcement. The outcome of the investigation into Chief Gray's conduct could have significant implications for his future leadership of the North Andover Police Department.