Services announced after former Freetown police chief passes away unexpectedly

A former local police chief who served the community for several decades has died.

According to an obituary, 66-year-old Carlton Edward Abbott Jr., Esq., of East Freetown, passed away unexpectedly after a short illness on Monday.

Abbott began his journey in law enforcement back in 1979 as an auxiliary officer and steadily progressed through the ranks until his appointment as police chief in 1998. Throughout his tenure, Chief Abbott guided the department through challenging times such as recessions, budget crises, hurricanes, blizzards, floods, and pandemics.

Under Chief Abbott’s leadership, the Freetown Police Department achieved numerous milestones and advancements. Noteworthy accomplishments during his tenure include the implementation of a formalized promotional process, which included written exams and interviews, as well as being one of the early adopters of TASERS as a less lethal option. The department also benefited from the introduction of a cruiser leasing program, acquisition of new equipment, and implementation of updated technology.

Under Abbott’s tenure as chief, the Freetown Police Department earned police certification, accreditation, and re-accreditation through the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission. Furthermore, Chief Abbott oversaw the construction of a new police station, providing a modern facility for enhanced community safety.

Chief Abbott actively engaged with the Bristol County Chief of Police Association and served as one of the founding members of the Southeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council, where he held a position on the executive board. Additionally, Chief Abbott served as the President of the Southeastern Massachusetts Police Training Association, contributing to the training of hundreds of police officers through its reserve police academy and in-service programs. His contributions extended statewide as he served on the executive board of the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, influencing policy and shaping the future of law enforcement in the Commonwealth.

FPD stated that Chief Abbott graduated at the top of his police academy class in 1983. He holds an Associate’s Degree from Bristol Community College, a Bachelor’s Degree from Stonehill College, a Master’s Degree from Anna Maria College, and a Juris Doctorate from the Southern New England School of Law.

Visiting hours will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. On Thursday January 22, 2026, at South Coast Chapel Mortuary, 158 Middleboro Road, (Rt.18) East Freetown, MA 02717. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Freetown Police Association Charity Fund in memory of Carlton Abbott Jr.