Boston Police Department

The Boston Police Department (BPD), created in 1838, holds the primary responsibility for law enforcement and investigation within the city of Boston, Massachusetts. It is one of the oldest police departments in the United States. The BPD is also the 20th largest law enforcement agency in the country and the third largest in New England behind the Massachusetts State Police (2,100 officers) and the Massachusetts Department of Correction (4,000 officers).

History

The first night watch in Boston was established in 1635.Taylor, J. The Constabulary (2003)

In 1838 the Day Police was organized, having no connection with the Night Watch. The Day Police operated under the city marshal and had six appointed officers.

The Boston Police Department was formally founded in May 1854, at which point the Boston Watch and Day Police were disbanded, and...
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