ADAMS, Mass. — The town has parted ways with its police chief. 

 

K. Scott Kelley "is no longer employed by the Town of Adams," according to interim Town Administrator Holli Jayko. 

 

The Board of Selectmen voted on Sept. 8 to put the police chief on a paid leave of absence but town officials have declined to answer repeated questions about the nature of the absence other than to clarify it was not a "suspension."

 

His departure follows an executive session held by the Selectmen last Wednesday to discuss a personnel matter other than professional competence, including health or discipline, or dismissal. 

 

A request for further information on whether Kelley's leaving was through resignation or termination was not provided, or whether his contract had been paid out. 

 

"The Town does not comment on personnel matters and will have no further comment on this matter at this time," responded Selectmen Chair John Duval via email on Friday. 

 

Kelley, who moved here to take the post of chief in 2021, has reportedly sold his home. 

 

He had more than 25 years of experience in law enforcement when he was hired to replace the retired Richard Tarsa. He has worked in a variety of roles, from school resource officer to administrative and policy development, and within higher-education institutions.

 

Kelley was offered a second three-year contract in January 2024; this would have ended on Dec. 31, 2026. He was making about $115,000 a year.  

 

The Selectmen appointed Timothy Sorrell as acting police chief in October. Sorrell, a retired Lanesborough police chief, agreed to a three-month contract (with extensions) and a bi-weekly salary of approximately $4,000.