HAVERHILL, Mass. —

Following two recent tragedies and a union letter questioning his leadership, a Massachusetts police chief was placed on leave this week.

Haverhill Mayor Melinda Barrett confirmed that Police Chief Robert Pistone's leave of absence began on Wednesday. Her statement did not provide an official explanation about why Pistone was on leave.

On Sunday, police union members in Haverhill and Lawrence posted a letter from an anonymous author on social media. It contained scathing criticism of Pistone's response to an officer's recent death.

"You stand in public about 'mental health,' but it's a show," the letter states. "Your words are theater. Behind closed doors you govern through intimidation and ego. You reward those who flatter you and punish anyone who speaks the trut

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