LAWRENCE — A Lawrence police detective died after he was placed on administrative leave in connection with an investigation into possible financial irregularities within the department’s Police Relief Fund (i.e. “the Relief”), according to a statement issued Tuesday.
Detective Thomas Cuddy, who served as treasurer of the non-profit, officer-managed fund, was placed on administrative leave following the discovery of unspecified “irregularities surrounding the management of the Relief account(s),” Lawrence Police Chief Maurice Aguiler wrote in a June 24 press release.
“The Lawrence Police Department is pursuing a forensic financial audit of the Relief fund,” Aguiler stated. “This audit will be conducted thoroughly and impartially by an independent party, ensuring that all aspects are examined with the utmost care.”
According to The Lawrence Police Department, “The Relief is a voluntary, post-tax, nonprofit fund that is both contributed to and managed by participating police officers.”
Cuddy died on June 17, 2025. The circumstances of his death were not disclosed in Aguiler’s statement.
“As many of you are aware, Detective Cuddy passed away recently, and I urge everyone to reserve speculation until the audit is completed and all facts are brought to light,” Aguiler wrote. “Speculation surrounding these circumstances serves no purpose and only adds to the pain of those who are grieving.”
Aguiler asked the public to support Cuddy’s family, stating, “At this time, it is important to respect the memory of Detective Cuddy and the feelings of his family, and I ask that our community come together to support the family during this time and allow them the dignity and privacy they deserve.”
The chief emphasized the department’s commitment to “integrity, transparency and accountability,” and said the community will be kept fully informed once the audit concludes.