Longtime Freetown Police Chief Carlton Abbott Passes Away at 66

FREETOWN (WBSM) — Longtime Freetown Police Chief Carlton E. Abbott Jr. has died.

Abbott, 66, passed away unexpectedly on January 19 after a brief illness.

Leadership as Police Chief

Abbott served Freetown as police chief for nearly 25 years, leading the department into a new era of professionalism, including becoming one of the first departments to adopt the use of Tasers as a less lethal option, implementing new technology and equipment, and overseeing the construction of the new police headquarters.

Education and Professional Affiliations

Born in Norwood, Abbott graduated at the top of his police academy class in 1983. He also had 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 Doctor from the Southern New England School of Law.

He was one of the founding members of the Southeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (SEMLEC), and held a position on its executive board. Abbott also served as President of the Southeastern Massachusetts Police Training Association, and on the executive board of the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association.

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A Career in Freetown Law Enforcement

Abbott began his career with the Freetown Police Department in 1979 as an auxiliary officer, and worked his way up through the ranks until he was appointed chief in 1998. He retired in 2023 after over 40 years of service to the department, succeeded by current Chief Scott M. Rose.

According to his obituary, Abbott is survived by his wife of 40 years, Arletta, and three daughters: Rachel Abbott and her partner, Eric Gregoire; Lindsey Abbott and her fiancé Christopher LaGrutta; and Monique Abbott. He also leaves behind a grandson, Landon.

He is also survived by his siblings, Steven Abbott and his wife, Susan; Donald Abbott and his wife, Lisa; Patricia Costa; and Anita Abbott, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Visiting Hours

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