As the start of a new school year approaches in Topsfield, the focus for families quickly turns to checklists—supplies, sports schedules, and adjusting to early mornings. But for the Topsfield Police Department, this time of year marks something even more important: community connection and safety.

At the helm of the department is Chief Neal Hovey, who leads a team of 19 sworn officers, an executive assistant, and a group of 17 Traffic Control Officers. “The members of the Topsfield Police Department genuinely care about the safety of our community and provide excellent customer service,” says Chief Hovey. He notes that the department’s mission is rooted in professionalism, compassion, and a commitment to building strong relationships within the community.

Notably, the Topsfield Police Department is one of just 121 accredited agencies in Massachusetts. “Accreditation signifies that the department demonstrated its commitment to police excellence by living up to a body of progressive standards,” Hovey says. The standards—340 in total—are based on national best practices and ensure that Topsfield’s approach to public safety reflects the highest levels of professionalism and integrity.

While the uniform may signal authority, Chief Hovey emphasizes that the Topsfield Police Department is deeply invested in being approachable and visible. Through programs like Coffee and Conversations with Police Officers, Movie Night on the Commons, Open House at the Police Department, and the Citizens Police Academy, the department actively seeks opportunities to engage with residents outside of emergency situations.

One of the department’s proudest new initiatives launched this past June: the inaugural Junior Police Academy. Eighteen local children enrolled in the one-week summer program designed by Topsfield officers themselves. “The program focuses primarily on respect, discipline, and team building,” says Hovey. “The goal is to create an environment where children can create lasting bonds between the police, the community, and each other.” The response from both families and staff was overwhelmingly positive, and plans for a second annual academy are already underway.

New to the team is Officer Sean Wlasuk, who joined in February after four years with the Kensington, New Hampshire, police department and three years with the Lynn Police Department. Also recently joining the team is Officer Keegan O’Donnell, who joined in February after four years with the Kensington, New Hampshire, police department and three years with the Lynn Police Department. Hovey notes that additions like Officer Wlasuk and Officer O'Donnell bring valuable experience and fresh perspective to Topsfield’s force.

Chief Hovey and his team know that safety isn't just about responding to emergencies—it's about working alongside families and schools to prevent them. “Community problems are often best addressed by working in partnership with citizens,” Hovey says. As such, the department encourages open communication and transparency as a foundation for safer neighborhoods.

The department’s approach to school safety is multi-layered, from traffic initiatives and visible patrols to educational outreach. As school buses return to the roads and sidewalks fill with young students, Hovey stresses the importance of shared responsibility. “Take extra care to look out for children in school zones, near playgrounds and parks, and in all residential areas,” he says.

Whether it's a casual conversation at a community event or a partnership with parents to support student safety, the message from Chief Hovey and the department is consistent: safety is a shared effort, and Topsfield is strongest when its residents and officers work together.

“Every member of our department is committed to building a community partnership that enhances the quality of life for our citizens,” Hovey says. “That includes protecting our youngest residents as they head back to school.”