The Freetown Police Department is mourning the sudden loss of retired Chief Carlton E. Abbott Jr.

Abbott passed away unexpectedly on Monday after a brief illness, according to his obituary. He was 66 years old.

Abbott graduated from the police academy in 1983 and “at the top” of his class. He also earned several degrees, including a master’s at Anna Maria College and a juris doctorate from Southern New England School of Law.

He first started working for the department as an auxiliary officer in 1979 and steadily rose through the ranks, eventually earning his appointment to police chief in 1998.

See more at wpri.com.