The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office has determined that, based on a Use of Force Report coupled with an investigation completed by the Berkshire State Police Detective Unit, the use of force in the January 27th Adams officer involved shooting was justified. Based on preliminary investigations, Adams Police Corporal Baker acted within Massachusetts General Law and Adams Police Department’s Use of Force Policy when he discharged his service weapon.
The investigation included:
• 911 calls placed by Phillip White;
• Corporal Baker’s body worn camera video;
• Three additional responding police officers’ body worn camera videos;
• Monitored and reviewed an interview of Corporal Baker conducted by the Berkshire State Police Detective Unit;
• Radio transmissions from Berkshire Regional Emergency Communications Center
• Northern Berkshire EMS run sheets;
• Reports from the Adams Police Department involving Phillip White;
• Crime scene photos of the inside of the 31 Commercial Street residence and outside where the incident occurred;
• Site visit to the inside of the 31 Commercial Street residence and outside where the incident occurred;
• Massachusetts General Law;
• Adam’s Police Department policies related to the incident.
On January 27th, Corporal Baker responded to 31 Commercial Street for a report of a stabbing. When he arrived, the officer saw a male in the shadows but could not see his hands. The officer ordered the male (later determined to be Mr. White) to show his hands, but he did not comply. Shortly after, Mr. White began to quickly approach the officer. The officer observed that Mr. White had a “shiny type weapon” in his hand that had sharp edges and appeared to have blood on it. When the officer observed the weapon, he drew his firearm. The officer determined that Mr. White posed an immediate threat and discharged his firearm, firing one round at Mr. White. He was not struck by the bullet. Mr. White briefly got to knees, began to get up again, and then returned to his knees. Ultimately, officers were able to bring Mr. White into custody without further incident.
On January 28th, Philip White was arraigned in Northern Berkshire District Court for one charge of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in connection with the January 27th incident.
There is an outstanding investigation into the Hinsdale officer involved shooting that took place on January 7th. The Berkshire District Attorney Office is awaiting the Massachusetts State Police Ballistics Report and a Use of Force Investigation.
District Attorney Shugrue stated, “The investigation into the Hinsdale officer involved shooting is much more complex as it resulted in the death of a person. I expect to receive the outstanding reports within the next 14 to 21 days. Bringing this investigation to a conclusion is a priority and I will immediately review and release the investigations findings when I receive the full report.”