The Canton community is united in grief following the passing of retired Police Chief Ken Berkowitz, a respected law enforcement leader, beloved community member, and cherished family man. Berkowitz died on Sunday, December 29, 2024, after a brave battle with cancer, leaving an indelible legacy of service, compassion, and leadership. His death has sent ripples of sorrow through Canton and beyond, as those who knew him reflect on a lifetime devoted to bettering the lives of others.
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Berkowitz graduated from Needham High School before embarking on a remarkable 32-year career in law enforcement. In 1992, he joined the Canton Police Department as a patrol officer, quickly distinguishing himself with his integrity, professionalism, and commitment to public safety. Over the next three decades, Berkowitz climbed the ranks, serving as sergeant and lieutenant before being appointed Canton’s 13th chief of police in 2005. His tenure as chief would be defined by innovative leadership, community-oriented policing, and a steadfast dedication to fostering trust and cooperation between the police department and the citizens it served.
Throughout his career, Berkowitz was celebrated not only for his skill as a law enforcement officer but also for his ability to connect with people on a personal level. Friends, colleagues, and residents remember him as a compassionate, principled individual who viewed his role as chief not merely as a job but as a calling. He believed deeply in the importance of collaboration and worked tirelessly to bridge gaps between law enforcement and the diverse communities of Canton.
Under Berkowitz’s leadership, the Canton Police Department became a model of community policing, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and proactive engagement with residents. He spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at addressing pressing social issues, including substance abuse prevention, youth outreach, and mental health support. His involvement with the Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA) was particularly impactful, as he worked alongside community leaders to combat the opioid epidemic and support individuals struggling with addiction.
Berkowitz also played a key role in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the department and the broader community. As a member of the Canton Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee (CDEI), he championed programs and policies aimed at creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for all residents. His commitment to these ideals earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and community members alike.
Beyond his local contributions, Berkowitz was an active participant in the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), where he collaborated with law enforcement leaders from around the world to advance best practices and address emerging challenges. He also served as president of the Metropolitan Law Enforcement Council (MetroLEC), a coalition of 45 police departments in the Greater Boston area. In this capacity, Berkowitz helped coordinate specialized services, including SWAT operations and crisis negotiation, ensuring that smaller departments had access to critical resources during emergencies.
One of Berkowitz’s most notable contributions came in the aftermath of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. As part of his work with MetroLEC, he played a key role in the Watertown manhunt that ultimately led to the capture of Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. Berkowitz’s calm leadership and strategic thinking during this high-pressure situation were widely praised and underscored his ability to rise to the occasion in moments of crisis.
In March 2024, after nearly two decades as Canton’s police chief, Berkowitz announced his decision to retire. In a heartfelt letter to Town Administrator Charlie Aspinwall, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve and his confidence in the department’s future. He officially stepped down on June 15, 2024, leaving behind a police force that had been transformed under his leadership. Even in retirement, Berkowitz remained deeply involved in the community, lending his time and expertise to various town committees and initiatives.
The news of Berkowitz’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across Canton and beyond. Town Administrator Charlie Aspinwall described him as “the epitome of a public servant,” praising his kindness, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the town he loved. “Ken Berkowitz exemplified what it means to lead with integrity and compassion,” Aspinwall said. “His impact on our community is immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
The Canton Police Department, where Berkowitz spent the entirety of his career, expressed profound sorrow at his loss. In a statement, the department described him as “a remarkable leader, mentor, and friend” whose contributions would be remembered for generations. Officers recalled his ability to bring out the best in those around him, whether through his mentorship of younger officers or his thoughtful approach to community concerns.
Plans for a memorial service to honor Berkowitz’s life and legacy are currently underway, with details to be announced in the coming days. The service is expected to draw a large gathering of family, friends, colleagues, and community members, all of whom have been touched by his life and work.
Berkowitz is survived by his family, who described him as a devoted husband and father whose love and support were the cornerstone of their lives. His passing is a profound loss not only for his loved ones but for the entire town of Canton, which he served with distinction for more than three decades.
As Canton mourns the loss of one of its most beloved leaders, many are taking comfort in the enduring legacy he leaves behind. From the lives he touched as a police officer to the lasting impact of his community initiatives, Berkowitz’s influence will continue to be felt for years to come. His passing serves as a reminder of the profound difference one individual can make through a lifetime of service, compassion, and dedication.
For the past 17 years, Berkowitz’s tenure as Canton’s police chief was marked by an unwavering commitment to the principles of justice, fairness, and respect. His leadership extended far beyond the boundaries of Canton, earning him recognition as a respected voice in the broader law enforcement community. Yet it was his personal connections, his willingness to listen, and his genuine care for others that defined his legacy.
As the town prepares to bid farewell to a leader who gave so much of himself to the community, the memories of his kindness, wisdom, and strength will continue to inspire. The Canton community, forever shaped by his influence, will carry forward his vision of a safer, stronger, and more inclusive future. Chief Ken Berkowitz’s passing is a profound loss, but his memory and the values he upheld will remain a guiding light for generations to come
