Former Fall River police chief responds to allegations after termination

A former Fall River police chief who was let go this week has issued a response to the allegations.

Paul Gauvin, a 27-year-veteran of the FRPD, was officially terminated following a months-long investigation into alleged misconduct.

The investigation, which was conducted by Comprehensive Investigations and Consulting LLC, resulted in the release of a 90-page report that detailed 15 policy violations.

Some of the allegations included:

-a knife and a single bullet left behind in an empty desk drawer in Gauvin’s former office and current interim Chief Kelly Furtado’s office

-three firearms were found in Gauvin’s station locker that were not registered to him.

-alleged harassment and intimidation

Gauvin issued the following statement in response:

“It is with a heavy heart that I address the public today following my unjust dismissal as a civil service employee for the city of Fall River. The allegations levied against me regarding policy violations are completely unfounded. This investigation was a smear campaign dressed up as due process.

“Throughout my tenure, I have upheld the highest standards of integrity, transparency and service to this community. My commitment has always been to the public safety and the well-being of the people I swore to protect. It is disheartening to see my reputation tarnished by those who prioritize their own agendas over the truth.

“I am grateful for the incredible and steadfast support from my family, colleagues, and the many members of this community who know my true character. The truth will prevail.”

Gauvin joined the FRPD in 1997 and held various positions including head of the Uniform Division and Major Crimes Division before being appointed police chief in May of 2022. In August 2024, the Fall River Police Union issued a vote of no confidence. Mayor Paul Coogan and Gauvin announced a mutual agreement the following month for Gauvin to step down as chief and return to his prior rank of captain in the Major Crimes Division in May 2025 after using up his personal leave.

This week, Mayor Coogan confirmed Gauvin’s termination following the report and recommendations.

Coogan expressed shock at the findings, particularly the knife, bullet, and unregistered firearms, noting he considers Gauvin a friend.

The report was forwarded to the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office and the Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission.