Tewksbury Hospital Security Disarmed Amid Safety Fears

Last week, Tewksbury State Hospital's security officers had their non-lethal tactical equipment, such as pepper gel, batons, and handcuffs, removed. This policy change, enacted by the Department of Public Health, occurred mere months after the same team received training and the equipment. The increased security measures were initially implemented following an investigation that highlighted unsafe conditions and frequent calls for police assistance at the hospital.

Registered nurse Ryan Wilkins stated that the removal of these tools makes the environment incredibly unsafe and dangerous. He emphasized the security team's crucial role in responding rapidly to calls for help and intervening in behavioral situations, stressing the need for them to be adequately equipped.

Wilkins also noted that the decision by the Healey administration was made without consulting frontline workers, nurses, or support staff. State Representative David Robertson is among local leaders advocating for the state to reverse its decision, arguing that the previously implemented security measures were proven effective and should be retained. Most major Massachusetts hospitals equip their safety officers with similar defensive tools due to the risk of attacks on healthcare workers.