James McPherson Jr., a 29-year veteran of the Danvers Fire Department, will reportedly serve as acting chief in light of the June 27 arrest of Chief Kevin Farrell over a domestic incident, according to a Saturday Salem News report.

The 49-year-old Farrell was arraigned in late June for assault and intimidation of a witness following an incident in Groveland involving his estranged wife.

A June 28 article from Danvers Patch noted that Farrell had no criminal record prior to the incident, and that the town had been aware of his marital difficulties but also had full confidence in his ability to perform as chief.