Timothy Brennan, terminated in February as Hopkinton police sergeant, has a new job

MILFORD — Former Hopkinton police Sgt. Tim Brennan, who was terminated from that department in February after it was determined he knew about — but did not report — sexual assault allegations against now-retired Deputy Police Chief John "Jay" Porter, has a new job.

Brennan was sworn in on Monday as a Milford police officer.

"I had never known Officer Brennan, personally, ever, but I've known his work ethic, integrity and his commitment to excellent is bar none," Milford Police Chief Robert Tusino told the Daily News.

Brennan's termination in Hopkinton came as a result of a recommendation from Hopkinton Police Chief Joseph Bennett, who said the sergeant violated several department policies, including failing to report misconduct and failing to support a fearful victim. The Hopkinton Select Board voted 4-1 on Feb. 8 to accept Bennett's recommendation.

Brennan fired: Hopkinton sergeant accused of not reporting other officer's sexual assaults

The move was controversial, with Brennan vowing to challenge it and residents who supported him presenting a nonbinding resolution to Special Town Meeting in May that called for the Select Board to reappoint Brennan to his post. The resolution passed, 220-99.

Brennan was placed on leave last year after it came to light that Porter's alleged victim told Brennan of sexual assault allegations in 2017. The woman was an adult at the time. Brennan said he did not report the allegations because the woman told him she wouldn't corroborate the story.

Tusino backs Brennan's efforts in protecting Hopkinton victim

Tusino confirmed he was aware of what happened in Hopkinton but said that, although he doesn't know the "intricacies" of everything, from his view Brennan was trying to protect the victim.

"I think you should be commended for doing that, and in my humble opinion, that's what I think he did," the Milford chief said.

Brennan brings 30 years of experience to the department and will work as a patrolman, Tusino said. He will take part in department training for the next few weeks and then will work solo.

"I was very happy he wanted to be here, and I think he's happy to come here," said Tusino. "I think everyone is happy he's here — he's an amazing cop."

'Here to support him': In wake of Brennan firing, Hopkinton residents start recall efforts

Immediately after he was terminated in Hopkinton, Brennan said he would fight the decision through arbitration. It's unknown whether that's still the case. Neither Brennan's lawyer, Daniel Fogerty, nor the Town of Hopkinton's attorney, Bryan Bertram, could be reached for comment.

Bennett also could not be reached for comment.

Porter retired from the Hopkinton Police Department in April 2023, shortly before he was indicted on three counts of child rape. He has pleaded not guilty and his trial is scheduled to start in December.

Norman Miller can be reached at 508-626-3823 or nmiller@wickedlocal.com. For up-to-date public safety news, follow him on X @Norman_MillerMW or on Facebook at facebook.com/NormanMillerCrime.

This article originally appeared on The Milford Daily News: Former Hopkinton police Sgt. Brennan hired as Milford police officer