Dighton Police Officers Local 306

06/04/2026

It is with deep sadness that the Dighton Police Officers Local 306 acknowledges the passing of retired Sergeant James Lavigne.

Sergeant Lavigne dedicated many years of service to the Town of Dighton and the Dighton Police Department, serving his community with professionalism, integrity, and commitment. Throughout his career, he made a lasting impact on the department and helped shape the officers who followed in his footsteps.

On behalf of the members of Dighton Police Officers Local 306, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Sergeant Lavigne’s family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

His service and contributions to our community will not be forgotten.

Celebrate the life of James LaVigne and join others in sharing memories, stories, and condolences.

05/28/2026

Yesterday during the 8-4 shift, Patrolman Lopes initiated a motor vehicle stop in the area of 420 Somerset Ave after a vehicle was found to be unregistered and uninsured, and the operator was determined to have a suspended license. Upon speaking with the operator( male party from
Brockton) Ptlm. Lopes observed behavior and statements that led officers to believe the operator may have been impaired.

Ptlm. Swartz arrived on scene to assist and advised the operator that the vehicle would be towed. The operator became non-compliant, refused the tow, rolled up the vehicle’s window, placed the vehicle in drive, and fled the scene nearly striking Ptlm. Swartz in the process.

A pursuit ensued, and officers attempted to stop and box in the vehicle near the old Town Hall. The operator was able to reverse, evade officers who were outside of their cruisers giving commands to stop, and then accelerated the vehicle toward officers in an attempt to flee. The pursuit continued into Berkley with assistance from the Berkley Police Department.

The pursuit was terminated after the operator entered Route 24 North; however, the Massachusetts State Police continued the pursuit until the Belmont Street exit. Hours later, MSP located both the vehicle and operator and placed the individual into custody before transferring him back to our custody.

The operator is facing numerous charges, including:

* Unregistered Motor Vehicle
* Uninsured Motor Vehicle
* Operating with a Suspended License
* Failure to Stop for Police
* Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle
* Marked Lanes Violation
* Assault and Battery on a Police Officer
* Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (Motor Vehicle) x2
* Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon

As always, the operator is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

What is concerning is that bail was later reduced, and the individual was released on personal recognizance with an order to appear in Taunton District Court this morning — despite the serious nature of the allegations and the danger this incident posed to officers and the public.

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, the members of the Dighton Local 306 pause to remember the brave men and women who never made it home.

Today is not just about flags, cookouts, or the start of summer. It is about honoring those who gave everything for this country - the service members who sacrificed their lives so the rest of us could live ours in freedom. Behind every name etched into history is a family forever changed, friends left grieving, and a legacy of courage that deserves to be remembered.

We ask everyone today to take a moment of silence, reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day, and never forget the cost of the freedoms we often take for granted.

To our fallen heroes: your sacrifice will never be forgotten. We remember you today and every day. 🇺🇸

05/20/2026

🚔🚨COMMUNITY ALERT: When is the Town of Dighton going to wake up?🚨🚔

The members of the Dighton Local 306 want residents to understand the serious staffing crisis facing our department.

We are currently operating with only 4 patrol officers and 3 sergeants, while also dealing with 3 injured officers. Our officers are working extended hours and covering shifts just to maintain basic patrol coverage.

This is a major public safety issue. Despite repeatedly raising concerns, Town Officials continue to tell us there is “no money” to hire additional officers or properly staff the department. This issue needs to be addressed before a preventable tragedy occurs.

Our officers remain committed to serving this community, but the lack of support from town leadership is putting both officers and residents at risk. Public safety should be a priority, not an afterthought.

05/20/2026

The DPO 306 regrets to announce that due to current staffing challenges within the Police Department, along with 3 Officers currently out recovering from injuries sustained while on duty, we unfortunately have to cancel the planned softball game against the Dighton Fire Department scheduled for May 31, 2026.

We appreciate the continued support from our community and from our brothers and sisters at the Dighton Fire Department. We hope to reschedule this event in the future when staffing and circumstances allow.

Please keep our injured Officers in your thoughts as they recover.

Thank you for your understanding.

05/14/2026

🚔⚾️ DIGHTON PD vs. DIGHTON FD ⚾️🚒

Who’s taking home bragging rights this year? Come out and support your local Police and Fire Departments as they face off in a friendly softball showdown during the Cow Chip Festival!

📅 Sunday, May 31⏰ 1:00 PM📍 Cow Chip Festival

Bring the family, cheer on your hometown heroes, and enjoy a great day filled with laughs, competition, and community spirit.

04/20/2026

On behalf of the officers of the Dighton Police Officers Local 306, we extend our deepest sympathies to Tree Costa and her family during this difficult time.

Celebrate the life of Roseanne Costa and join others in sharing memories, stories, and condolences.

01/29/2026

We had an awesome time with Mrs. Perry’s & Mrs. C’s 1st grade class today! We appreciate the invite and hope to be back for the “pool party”! Hopefully the students did a good job of hiding the “bird bucks” that we confiscated to hand out to them!

12/29/2025

As President of DPO Local 306, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to our members.

Recently, several of our officers stepped up in a way that truly reflects the heart of this union and the values we stand for. On their own time, and with their own money, they worked quietly and selflessly to make sure a local family in need didn’t have to struggle this Christmas.

This wasn’t done for recognition or praise, and that’s exactly why it means so much. It was done because that’s who you are—people who care deeply about the community you serve and about doing the right thing when no one is watching.

I struggled with whether to post this because the goal is never the spotlight. But I felt it was important for our members to know that your efforts did not go unnoticed and that your union is proud of you.

Thank you for representing DPO Local 306 & Dighton PD with compassion, generosity, and selflessness. This is what service truly looks like, and I am honored to stand alongside each of you.

Stay safe, and thank you for all that you do—for each other and for our community.

Sincerely your President,
Sgt. Nicholas Barros

12/25/2025

🎄🔥 Thank You, The Butt Hutt BBQ! 🔥🎄

A huge thank you to Butt Hut BBQ for stopping by and treating our officers to an incredible Christmas BBQ! Your generosity, support, and amazing food truly meant a lot—especially during the busy holiday season.

We’re grateful for community partners like you who take the time to support those who serve. Wishing the entire Butt Hut BBQ team a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🎅🎁

-Dighton Police Officers Local 306