The following is the text of a memo dated March 6 from Westbrook City Administrator Jerre Bryant to Westbrook Police Chief Paul McCarthy.
Through the course of our investigation of the January 18, 2006 incident at the Public Safety Building involving Fire Lieutenant Jarrett, we have reviewed the investigation and arrest of Lt. Jarrett by the Westbrook Police Department. Our review strongly suggests that the arrest was misguided. The time expended by two of the department’s top officers on this matter was a misuse of our resources on a matter which should have been handled administratively and not criminally. It appears your two top officers consulted with you on a regular basis throughout the investigation. Your failure to re-direct their activities toward a more appropriate and productive use of their time constitutes a failure to properly supervise and manage the department and its personnel. You have been counseled previously regarding the need for more definitive and assertive leadership of the department. This necessitates this written reprimand.
You are a quality individual, a respected career law enforcement official and an influential community leader. However, the effective management of the Westbrook Police Department necessitates an engaged, decisive and assertive leader. We have accepted that during your early tenure as Chief of the department, the protracted labor contract dispute made it more difficult for you to fully assert your leadership of department personnel. That period has now ended with two contract settlements for departmental employees. You now must become the more affirmative leader your department needs.
The Administration is eager to work with you and provide whatever support is necessary for your effective management and leadership of the Westbrook Police Department.
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