An off-duty police officer from Chelsea Police Department was arrested early this morning after reports of a disturbance, the department announced on social media. The officer, identified as Michael Villanueva, 33, faces charges related to domestic assault and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:34 a.m., with officers responding to the scene in Chelsea. According to the department's post, after interviewing the involved parties, officers had probable cause to arrest Villanueva who was subsequently located, and arrested by Chelsea officers with the aid of the Everett Police Department. Villanueva, has been placed on administrative leave and is expected to face arraignment today at Chelsea District Court.
In their statement, the Chelsea Police Department stressed the gravity with which it regards such matters and confirmed its intent to ensure a thorough judicial process is followed. "The Chelsea Police Department takes these matters seriously and is fully cooperating with the judicial process," the statement read, emphasizing the department's commitment to professional standards.
Further details on the incident are under wraps as the case is ongoing. However, the Chelsea Police Department has promised cooperation and transparency, within the bounds of the legal process, "As the investigation proceeds, additional information may be released by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office," the social media post detailed, indicating the potential for more information to become available as the investigation develops. Officer Villanueva's status will be subject to the outcome of both the criminal case, and an internal probe by the department's Professional Standards Division.
