Update at 6:45 p.m. August 30: Great Barrington Town Manager Jennifer Tabakin tells WAMC the town is taking the matter seriously and is investigating the issues expressed in the report. A recent article by the online publication The Berkshire Edge details alleged drinking and driving incidents by Great Barrington police officers.The Berkshire Edge cites anonymous face-to-face interviews with sources close to members of the Great Barrington and neighboring Sheffield police departments. The Edge reports the sources say there is a pattern of excessive and frequent drinking, often followed by driving, among some Great Barrington officers. On August 20th a Sheffield police officer pulled over an off-duty Great Barrington officer for suspected drunk driving. A report was made and the officer was allowed to call for a ride without being tested or cited.
Great Barrington’s police chief and town manager did not respond to calls Tuesday. Selectboard Chair Sean Stanton tells WAMC the town and police department are investigating the issue. Stanton says he expects town hall to issue a statement in the next few days.
