Crime

Chelsea police officer charged with domestic violence, placed on administrative leave

The officer pleaded not guilty in Chelsea District Court on Thursday.

July 3, 2025

1 minute to read

Police arrested an off-duty Chelsea police officer Thursday morning after an alleged domestic violence incident took place in the early morning hours.

Michael Villanueva, 33, pleaded not guilty in Chelsea District Court to charges of domestic assault and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, according to court documents.

Chelsea police officers responded to a disturbance report at around 1:34 a.m., according to a release from the department.

After interviewing people at the scene, officers arrested Villannueva, the department said.

The court released him on personal recognizance with the conditions that he make no contact and stay away from the victim and court-ordered location, surrender his firearms, and remain alcohol free.

The court set a pretrial date for Villanueva for August 15.

His lawyer did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Villannueva was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the criminal case and an internal investigation by the department’s Professional Standards Division, the department said.

“The Chelsea Police Department takes these matters seriously and is fully cooperating with the judicial process,” the release said.

The department said it will make no further comments as the investigation proceeds.