Former New Bedford Officer Named Carver Police Chief

CARVER (WBSM) — A former New Bedford Police officer who joined the Carver Police Department in 2017 has now become Chief of Police in that town.

Matthew Rayner officially took over the reins of the Carver Police Department Thursday, following the retirement of former Chief Marc Duphily on Wednesday, March 11.

Carver Select Board Chose Rayner as Next Carver Police Chief

Rayner had been selected by the Carver Select Board in September 2024 to become the next chief after completing an assessment center and interview process, according to a release.

“I’m honored by the opportunity to serve the Town of Carver as its Chief of Police,” Rayner said. “I’m grateful to the Select Board for their confidence in me, and I want to thank Chief Duphily for his leadership and service to this department and community. I look forward to continuing the department’s work to keep Carver safe and strengthening our connection with residents and the community.”

Rayner Spent 17 Years With New Bedford Police

Before joining the Carver Police Department in 2017, Rayner served for 17 years with the New Bedford Police Department, working as a patrol officer, patrol sergeant and detective sergeant in the Family Services Unit. He also helped establish the NBPD’s Juvenile Police Academy in 2008, and assisted in developing protocols for the Child Advocacy Center of Bristol County.

Career Progression Within the Carver Police Department

After joining the Carver Police Department, Rayner worked all three patrol shifts and handled serious investigations, including sexual assault and domestic violence cases. He was promoted to sergeant in April 2021. He became Administrative Sergeant in November 2025.

Military Background in the U.S. Air Force

Rayner also served in the U.S. Air Force from 1996 to 2000 as a security forces K-9 handler specializing in explosive detection, and was also assigned to support the U.S. Secret Service, providing explosive detection for security details for the President of the United States and other dignitaries.

Rayner has been married to his wife, Elizabeth, for 28 years. They have two adult sons, Andrew and Brian.