A Domestic Dispute Over Laundry
Sean Guntram Whitaker, a 47-year-old Salem police officer currently going through a divorce, pleaded not guilty in Salem District Court to a felony count of assault and battery on a disabled person or someone over 60, according to legal filings.
Officers responded to Whitaker’s home late Monday morning following reports of a domestic dispute, court records show. The confrontation allegedly stemmed from a disagreement over laundry in the family home, where Whitaker, his soon-to-be ex-wife, their three children, and his 73-year-old mother-in-law all reside.
Contradictory Accounts from the Scene
According to a police report, Whitaker stated that he had placed his clothes in the dryer before hearing his mother-in-law take them out. He went downstairs to confront her and attempted to grab the laundry back, telling her “no.” Whitaker told police that the 73-year-old woman, who is originally from eastern Europe, began punching him in the stomach. He reported sustaining no injuries and insisted he “never put a hand on her.”
The mother-in-law offered a different account to responding officers through a translator. She stated that Whitaker became angry when she removed his clothes from the dryer to make room for his children’s clothing. According to her statement in the police report, Whitaker pushed her, causing her to fall backward and strike her elbow and wrist. She denied hitting her son-in-law.
Mother-In-Law Seeks Treatment for Forearm Injury
First responders observed an apparent bump on the upper forearm of the mother-in-law, who was wearing an ice pack on her arm when police arrived. She subsequently visited a local hospital for medical treatment. The officer’s soon-to-be ex-wife arrived at the home while officers were on the scene and was briefed on the incident.
Arraignment and Strict Conditions of Release
Following his arraignment on Monday, Whitaker was released on personal recognizance. Orders require him to stay away from his mother-in-law, surrender all firearms, and relinquish his license to carry. A court-appointed lawyer represented him during the arraignment and indicated he would retain private counsel.
State Board Suspends Whitaker's Law Enforcement Certification
The state’s police oversight board suspended Whitaker’s law enforcement certification on Wednesday, a common step when criminal charges are filed against an officer. Under state law, Massachusetts police officers must maintain an active state certification to work.
Upcoming Court Proceedings
The next court hearing in the case is scheduled for November 25.
