O'CONNELL ANNOUNCES RETIRED TAUNTON POLICE OFFICERS STEVEN CROWNINSHIELD AND MATTHEW MCCAFFREY

AS GRAND MARSHALS OF 2025 CHRISTMAS PARADE

Taunton, MA - Mayor Shaunna O'Connell is pleased to announce that Retired Police Officer Steven CrowninshieldandRetired Police Sergeant Matthew McCaffrey have been selected as the Grand Marshals for the 2025 Taunton Christmas Parade, to be held onSunday, December 7, 2025. The parade will kick off at noon on Broadway and conclude at Taunton City Hall.

"Officer Crowninshield and Sergeant McCaffrey represent the very best of public service," said O'Connell. "Both dedicated their careers to keeping Taunton safe while building strong, meaningful relationships with the community. Their impact extends far beyond their years of service with the Police Department, and we are honored to recognize them as this year's Grand Marshals."

Retired Officer Steven Crowninshield

Officer Crowninshield proudly served the Taunton Police Department for 37 years, becoming a trusted and well-respected member of the community. Over the course of his career, he was deeply involved in youth and community outreach-including theCops and Kids Programand asaTaunton Area School to Career Mentor, where he helped support and guide Taunton students.

A founding member and longtime host of Roll Call, the Taunton Police information and community-engagement television program on TCAM, Crowninshield became a familiar and friendly presence to residents citywide. He also served as a Community Police Officer for the elderly, where he was especially beloved. He worked tirelessly to keep older residents informed, connected, and safe-earning admiration and appreciation throughout Taunton.

Officer Crowninshield additionally served as a state-certified Motorcycle Instructor, and on the Police Dive Team and SEMLEC Regional Dive Team, contributing his specialized skills to regional public safety operations.

Retired Sergeant Matthew McCaffrey

Retired Sergeant Matthew McCaffrey served 35 years with the Taunton Police Department, where he built a distinguished career marked by leadership, compassion, and outstanding service. He served many years as the Patrol Supervisor before moving on to the position of Detective Sergeant in the Licensing Division.

During his time as a Community Police Officer, McCaffrey worked closely with residents of Dewert Avenue to address quality-of-life issues and build stronger community connections. He also organized a youth basketball league for Dewert Avenue children-strengthening relationships and creating positive opportunities for local youth.

Sergeant McCaffrey additionally served as a Commander of both the Taunton Police Dive Team and the SEMLEC Regional Dive Team, where he oversaw countless recoveries throughout the region.

Beyond policing, he demonstrated his deep commitment to helping others by owning and operating sober living homes, supporting individuals recovering from substance use disorders.

Honoring Two Community Champions

AJ Marshall, Parks & Recreation Commissioner and Christmas Parade Chairperson, applauds the choice of Crowninshield and McCaffrey as Grand Marshals. "Officer Crowninshield and Sergeant McCaffrey dedicated their careers-and their lives-to serving others. They brought kindness, leadership, and heart to their roles both in and outside the Police Department. Their contributions to Taunton have made a lasting difference, and we are proud to celebrate them at this year's Christmas Parade," said Marshall.

The City invites residents and visitors to join in celebrating these two exemplary public servants during the 2025 Taunton Christmas Parade. For more information about the Parade and related festivities, please visit taunton-ma.gov or follow the City of Taunton Facebook page. ###