This story has been updated to include video reaction from Mayor Paul Coogan
Mayor Paul Coogan and Police Chief Paul Gauvin have mutually agreed for Gauvin to step down as chief and return to his previous rank as captain. Mayor Coogan says Chief Gauvin will return his command of the Major Crimes Division in January.
Earlier this month the chief received a vote of no confidence from two police unions on the heels of a lawsuit filed by Fall River Police Captain Gil Costa who alleges Chief Gauvin and the city retaliated against him for internal affairs investigations that he says led him to be passed over for promotions.
Chief Gauvin was appointed in 2022 and will work under the terms of his current contract which expires next May. The mayor says he has begun the process of finding new leadership within the police department.
“It has been an honor to serve the City of Fall River in this capacity,” said Gauvin in a news release from the mayor’s office. “However, after much reflection, I believe it’s time for change. I am proud of the progress we’ve made, but I recognize that it’s important to focus more on my family at this stage of my career.”
Mayor Coogan says he has been in contact with the Fall River Police Superior Officers Association and the Fall River Patrolman’s Association regarding the change in leadership. He remains grateful for the work Chief Gauvin accomplished leading the department.
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The Fall River Reporter first reported news of this possible move last evening.
