New Bedford Police Fire Two Officers Over Camera Misuse
The department terminated an officer and a sergeant for using surveillance technology for personal gain.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Law Enforcement
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The New Bedford Police Department fired Officer Emily Pacheco and Sgt. James Martinelli following an internal investigation. Police Chief Jason Thody determined the pair abused Flock Safety license plate reader technology to pursue personal interests.
Why it matters
The disciplinary action addresses the unauthorized use of surveillance tools by law enforcement. It follows a department-wide audit designed to ensure that technology intended for public safety is not leveraged for private benefit.
New Bedford Police Chief Jason Thody officially terminated two officers following hearings regarding their misuse of technology. The department recently finalized the first comprehensive audit phase of its Flock Safety camera system.
The players
Jason Thody
He serves as the Police Chief for the New Bedford Police Department and oversaw the investigation into camera misuse.
Jon Mitchell
He is the Mayor of New Bedford and announced the firing of the officers involved in the technology scandal.
Emily Pacheco
She was an officer with the New Bedford Police Department who was terminated for violating department regulations.
James Martinelli
He was a sergeant with the New Bedford Police Department who was fired for abusing surveillance technology for personal gain.
The details
The terminations came after an internal investigation confirmed that the officers violated department regulations by misusing Flock camera equipment. Mayor Jon Mitchell confirmed the disciplinary measures taken against the two veteran department members.
Timeline
Thursday, October 22, 2026: Mayor Jon Mitchell announced the terminations of the two officers.
Legal Context
These terminations follow strict internal protocols governing the use of surveillance technology by law enforcement agencies. The incident marks a departure from standard conduct policies, highlighting the department's emphasis on accountability for private use of public assets.
The firing of these officers underscores the city's commitment to ensuring that sensitive license plate data is protected from abuse. Residents can expect continued oversight as the department implements findings from its recent Flock Safety camera audit.
The takeaway
Maintaining public trust requires that police officers strictly adhere to guidelines governing the use of surveillance technology. Misuse of such equipment by staff can lead to immediate termination and investigations into professional conduct.
Further reading
For more information on department standards, visit the Law Enforcement section.
Live Poll
Do you trust your local police department to use surveillance technology ethically and legally?
