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Watchdog Faults Bridgewater Town Manager for Leadership Failures in Norfolk

Bridgewater has hired outside counsel to review OIG findings that could prompt Norfolk to seek a refund for improperly paid time off.

Overview

  • The Massachusetts Office of the Inspector General released a report accusing Justin Casanova‑Davis of failing to supervise Norfolk’s public works director and allowing misuse of municipal resources.
  • The OIG concluded Casanova‑Davis abused vacation and sick‑time rules to increase his final payout, estimating at least $5,000 in improper pay from his Norfolk departure.
  • Investigators documented specific misconduct by former DPW director Blair Crane, including improper reimbursement requests for personal clothing and directing DPW crews to make private deliveries.
  • Bridgewater’s Town Council met in executive session and on Aug. 11 voted to retain outside legal counsel to review the report while Casanova‑Davis has not responded to requests for comment.
  • Norfolk officials will discuss the OIG’s recommendation that the town seek a refund at a Select Board meeting on Aug. 17, and Bridgewater residents say the report deepens concerns about local oversight after a late‑2025 water‑service emergency.