Report: Police Chief suffers minor stroke
Published on December 13th, 2006
STONEHAM, MA - In an unexpected and startling turn of events, Stoneham Police Chief Herb Moore reportedly suffered a minor stroke Monday night and was being hospitalized at Mass General Hospital, according to multiple sources around Stoneham.
By all accounts, Moore was resting comfortably in the hospital as of press time and was shooting for making a full recovery and a return to the police ranks.
"He wasn't feeling well Monday night, he's in the hospital now and we'll just have to wait and see how things go over the next few days...but obviously all of our thoughts and prayers are with Herb and his family and we wish him a speedy recovery," said Town Administrator Ron Florino. "For right now, we have some capable Lieutenants in Rick McCarthy and Jim McIntyre that can handle things while Herbie is out and we'll obviously know more as the week goes on."
The 57-year-old Moore, a longtime member of the Stoneham Police Department and an affable, smiling face around the town of Stoneham, had been permanently named to the Stoneham Police Chief post in September after an acrimonious contract dispute between the town and former Chief Greg O'Keefe, and had been dealing with some difficult budget decisions involving layoffs and budget cuts - but had been dealing well with the newfound responsibilities and problems.
"Herb is such a good, energetic guy and you could never really tell whether things were good and bad at the department," said Florino, who planned on visiting Moore in the hospital Wednesday afternoon.
Moore served as the interim chief for two months leading up to being named to the permanent post, as he beat out a pair of other candidates for the 10-month appointment and - by all accounts - was doing an excellent job heading the department.
"I was shocked when I heard about the chief, and we're all hoping for a speedy return to health and the police force for Herb Moore," said Selectman John DePinto.
Subscribe and get Home Delivery of The Independent
Save 36% off the newstand price — that's like 18 FREE issues!