Massachusetts state trooper arrested in Brimfield domestic violence incident

By John R. Ellement and Martine Powers, Globe Staff

A Massachusetts state trooper pleaded not guilty to domestic assault and battery today after he was arrested early this morning for allegedly abusing his wife in their Brimfield home.

Donald S. Pillsbury, 42, posted $250 cash bail after being booked at the Sturbridge barracks and appeared in Palmer District Court this afternoon, where he was told that he cannot drink alcohol, possess firearms, or commit any abuse will he awaits his trial.

He will next appear in court March 20 for a pre-trial conference.

Pillsbury has been on the state police force since 1994, and was assigned to the department's K-9 unit.

Authorities said in a statement that Pillsbury’s wife made a 911 call to the State Police communications center and that troopers were sent to Pillsbury’s Brimfield home from the Sturbridge barracks around 1:30 a.m. today.

Arriving troopers were met by Pillsbury’s wife who alleged she had been attacked by her husband. She was taken to Harrington Memorial Hospital in Southbridge for treatment and evaluation, State Police said.

This afternoon, State Police said Pillsbury’s wife, whom they did not identify by name, suffered “visible injuries.’’ Citing privacy concerns, State Police would not release any more information about her.

Following his arrest, State Police superior officers confiscated Pillsbury’s service pistol, badge, identification, and 25 other firearms, all of which were properly stored. He was immediately relieved of duty and his status will be the subject of an internal disciplinary hearing Friday.

Pillsbury’s actions also ran afoul of the department's policy against domestic violence, State Police spokesman David Procopio said in a statement.

“The department has no tolerance – zero – for any act of domestic abuse. The defendant’s actions, as alleged by the victim, are reprehensible,’’ Procopio said.

He added, “We will continue to investigate the incident thoroughly. In addition to the criminal prosecution, the State Police Internal Affairs Section has begun its own investigation, and the department will take appropriate action based on the results of those investigations.”