Lt. Matthew Simons Appointed Newburyport City Marshal

Matthew Simons Newburyports new City MarshalPhoto byNewburyport MA Police

NEWBURYPORT, MA - Mayor Sean Reardon has announced the appointment of Lt. Matthew Simons as the next City Marshal of Newburyport, pending confirmation by the City Council. Simons, a long-time member of the Newburyport Police Department, is set to succeed Marshal Mark Murray, who has served in the position since 2016.

Lt. Simons began his career with the Newburyport Police Department in 2002 and has held the role of Operations Lieutenant since 2016. His extensive credentials include a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a Master of Arts in Executive Leadership. In addition, he has participated in the FBI National Academy and completed the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association Trilogy. Simons also brings the experience of being a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, having been honorably discharged in 1999.

Mayor Reardon expressed his confidence in Lt. Simons’ ability to lead the department, saying, “We had excellent candidates for the position of City Marshal, and Lt. Simons rose to the top thanks to his experience, credentials, and vision for the Department. I look forward to seeing what he can accomplish as our next City Marshal.”

Lt. Simons was notably recognized in 2018 for his off-duty actions when he performed life-saving medical care on a motorist.

The selection process for the new City Marshal is mandated by city ordinance. A committee, chaired by former Essex County Sheriff Frank Cousins, reviewed applications and conducted interviews before forwarding four finalists to Mayor Reardon. The committee included city officials, public safety leaders, and community members, and the final candidates participated in a rigorous assessment center that simulated real-world scenarios for City Marshals.

The vacancy for City Marshal opened following the retirement of Marshal Mark Murray, who joined the Newburyport Police Department in 1993. Murray, who served as City Marshal for eight years, has remained in the role in an acting capacity since May 11 and will continue to do so until Lt. Simons’ confirmation by the City Council.

Mayor Reardon expressed gratitude for Murray’s extended service, stating, “Marshal Murray has been an exemplary leader, and we are thankful for his commitment to the City and his role in ensuring a smooth transition.”

The information for this article was sourced from the Newburyport Police Department.