Local News
“Mr. Thompson appears to be preparing himself for some type of conflict. His behavior is far outside that of a typical owner of firearms.”
A Boston fire lieutenant is facing slew of weapon and drug charges despite a previous order to surrender his weapons after his wife filed a restraining order and police searched his home.
Joshua Thompson, 38, is charged with more than 40 charges related to weapons, including improper storage of large capacity firearms, as well as charges of trafficking methamphetamine and violating an order to surrender his weapons.
Despite being required to surrender all of his weapons earlier this summer, Milton police found five unregistered assault rifles, five unregistered handguns, 2,000 rounds of ammunition, 76 magazines, four ballistic vests, and tourniquets at Thompson’s home, a police report filed in Quincy District Court said.
The weapons were allegedly staged at entry points to the house, police noted.
“The location of the firearms, ballistic vests and tourniquets at multiple entry points is cause for concern beyond just improper storage, Mr. Thompson appears to be preparing himself for some type of conflict,” a Milton police detective wrote. “His behavior is far outside that of a typical owner of firearms.”
Thompson’s lawyer Peter Pasciucco confirmed his employment as a lieutenant with the department, and the Boston Fire Department did not return a request for comment. Thompson is also a war veteran, Pasciucco added.
Thompson was ordered to turn over all firearms to comply with a harassment prevention order in June, but, as of July 11, three firearms were unaccounted for, police said. He was also notified in writing that his license to carry had been revoked.
Thompson’s wife contacted police about a restraining order Monday, Aug. 18, alleging Thompson had not allowed her to leave the home. Previous allegations of “disturbing behaviors” include that he had used a knife to stab the car tires while the kids were in the car, yanked the wheel of the car while his wife was driving, and texted threats to his wife, and was physically violent with her, the police report said.
Police served a restraining order to Thompson at his home the next day, where he told police had already surrendered all firearms, ammunition, and licenses. With a search warrant, police searched his home, where officers allegedly found several weapons and drugs. Thomspon was arrested, the report said.
Police also said they found 100 tablets of Adderall, which tested positive for methamphetamine, and police allege he had the intent to distribute based on the quantity.
“We appreciate the seriousness of the charges and look forward to defending the case in court. Fortunately, Josh comes from a great family and has an extensive support network,” Pasciucco said.
Along with his wife, another woman was named as someone in danger if Thomspon were to be released. She submitted an affidavit in support of the restraining order.
“Joshua Thompson is unhinged and unstable. His anger blocking my driveway really scared me,” her affidavit said, according to the police report. “Desperate people do crazy things and he is showing warning signs and I am not taking any more chances. I need him to stay away from me and my family.”
Pasciucco confirmed the Boston Fire Department’s Employee Assistance Program helped find a spot for Thompson at a treatment facility specifically for first responders and veterans.
“That is where he should be,” Pasciucco said. “Josh has no prior record and has no history of violence. He’s dedicated his life to helping others, not hurting them.”
Thompson pleaded not guilty to all charges and has been held in Norfolk County Superior Court following a dangerousness hearing.
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