Dedham, MA Police Sergeant James Quigley, Dies After Brave Cancer Battle While Still Serving His Community

The Dedham Police Department is mourning the passing of Sergeant James Quigley, an active duty officer who lost his courageous battle with cancer. Sergeant Quigley passed away surrounded by the grief of a community he spent nearly a decade protecting and serving with unwavering commitment.

James Quigley joined the Dedham Police Department on August 31, 2015. From the very beginning of his career, he showed a dedication to the badge that set him apart from the rest.

After more than two years in uniformed patrol, his skills and work ethic caught the attention of department leadership and earned him a position as a detective. In that role, he handled complex, long running investigations that demanded advanced training, sharp instincts and a deep sense of responsibility.

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His contributions did not go unnoticed. On August 22, 2022, Sergeant Quigley was promoted to the rank of Police Sergeant, a recognition of everything he had given to the department and the people of Dedham.

Following his promotion, he was assigned to the Dedham District Court, where he worked closely with the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office and court personnel. In this capacity, he became a steady and trusted presence in the courtroom, helping guide cases through the justice system with professionalism and care.

Perhaps one of the most meaningful parts of his work was his advocacy for domestic violence victims. Sergeant Quigley not only showed up for victims in court, he led the effort to create a program designed specifically to help law enforcement officers support those victims.

It was a reflection of the kind of person he was, someone who saw a gap and worked to close it, not because he was told to, but because it was the right thing to do.

What made Sergeant Quigley remarkable was not just his professional record but the way those around him described his character. Colleagues remembered him as a quiet leader, someone who led through the quality of his work rather than the volume of his voice. He was known for being approachable, warm and consistently professional whether he was at the station, the courthouse or running into a coworker in a parking garage.

A resident of Dedham recalled the time Sergeant Quigley stopped to talk with her children while they were riding bikes on the street, complimented them on wearing proper safety gear and showed them his own bike. It was a small moment, but it was exactly the kind of officer and person he was.

Throughout his illness, Sergeant Quigley continued to report to work and serve his community. His colleagues described his presence during that time as an example of strength and dedication that inspired everyone around him.

He was proud of his family’s tradition of police service, and even more so, he was deeply devoted to his own family.

The Dedham Police Department, the Dedham Firefighters Local 1735, court staff and the broader community have expressed profound sadness at his passing. Sergeant James Quigley leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity and genuine human kindness. He will not be forgotten.

Rest in Peace, Sergeant James Quigley.