SHERBORN — A jury awarded former Sherborn Police Chief Richard Thompson $1.2 million, finding former Town Administrator David Williams liable for intentionally and maliciously interfering with Thompson's contractual relationship with the town. The jury cleared the Town of Sherborn and Lt. David Bento of wrongdoing.

Thompson was fired by the Sherborn Select Board in 2020, which cited harassment, abuse of power, and creating a climate of fear within the police department as reasons for his termination. His employment contract had been scheduled to run through June 2022.

Thompson filed a lawsuit against the town, Williams, and Bento. The suit alleged Williams and Bento conspired to have Thompson removed, including using a female officer to file complaints against him. Thompson claimed tensions began after he raised concerns about a former Select Board member's potential conflict of interest.

On June 17, following a three-week trial, the jury awarded Thompson $200,000 in back pay, $500,000 for future lost earnings, and $50,000 for reputational harm. The remaining portion of the award was designated for interest.

Thompson said, "After six years of what has been an incredibly stressful and challenging time for my family and me, I have been vindicated by fourteen Jurors who listened to three weeks of evidence and testimony."

Joseph Sulman, Thompson's attorney, said the former chief was unable to secure another law enforcement position after his termination due to the allegations surrounding his dismissal.

Attorney Tom DiGani, who represents Williams, Bento, and the town, said, "We are pleased with the jury's verdicts in favor of the Town of Sherborn and Lieutenant David Bento." He added, "We respectfully disagree with the decision as to David Williams and are exploring all post-trial options at this time."