The Town of Harwich is in the heart of Cape Cod Massachusetts comprised of seven picturesque villages, unique business areas, cranberry bogs, open spaces, large fresh water ponds, rivers, miles of bicycle trails, beaches, several harbors, and marinas.  With a year round population of approximately 12,652  which grows to over 40,000 during the summer months,  the Police Department is staffed to provide professional public safety services in this diverse environment.   

The Harwich Police Department is comprised of thirty-two full-time commissioned officers, seven civilian employees, animal control, and seven special officers all of which provide professional law enforcement services to this community.  The Department has several specialized groups to meet the needs of our citizens and visitors including the Traffic Unit, Bicycle Patrol Unit, and school resource officers.  A K-9 Unit and regionalized special response team are being researched as well.   

To protect the beaches, waterways, marinas, harbors, and their natural resources, which are important to this Town, a strong working relationship with the Harbormaster’s staff and the Police Department exists.  Joint training efforts and sharing of equipment are being increased to better facilitate this common priority.

The Harwich Police Department has developed and appreciates the value of a strong partnership with the community it serves.  Officers are encouraged through patrol, walking beats, neighborhood interdiction, bicycle patrol, crime prevention, citizen police academy, and school liaison to meet with citizens to open lines of communication.  The intent of this effort is to address public concerns and improve the quality of life in our Town.  Dignity, respect, honesty, and equity in justice form the philosophical and operational premise upon which this organization functions.  A quality work environment, opportunities for education, training, career development, participatory management, and open communications enhance this direction.

As Chief of the Harwich Police Department, I would like to welcome you to our website and hope you find the information useful. If you have any questions or need further clarification feel free to contact my office at 508.430.7541. Or E-Mail me at: wmason@harwichpolice.com 

Chief William Mason


The Harwich Police Department
183 Sisson Rd. Harwich MA 02673
Phone: 508.430.7541 | Fax: 508.432.2530 | Email: mharris@harwichpolice.com