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8h ago

Judge Halts Quincy's Saint Statues at Public Safety HQ After Denying City's Dismissal Bid

The judge said the plan likely communicates religious favoritism under the state constitution, potentially deterring some residents from seeking police or fire services.

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Overview

  • Norfolk Superior Court Judge William F. Sullivan granted a preliminary injunction blocking installation and rejected the city's motion to dismiss the lawsuit.
  • The 10-foot bronze figures of Saints Michael and Florian, commissioned in 2023 for roughly $800,000–$850,000, were slated for the new public safety headquarters entrance.
  • Multifaith residents represented by the ACLU, joined by groups including the Freedom From Religion Foundation, argue the display violates Article 3 of the Massachusetts Constitution.
  • Mayor Tom Koch defends the statues as tributes to first responders, says they are not promoting religion, and plans to appeal; police and firefighters’ unions have supported the city.
  • City solicitor James Timmons told the court the Italy-sculpted statues were expected in Eastern Massachusetts near late October, but they cannot be installed while the case proceeds.