After being sworn in on February 1, 2021, White was placed on leave two days later, as the city conducted an investigation into a 1999 allegation of domestic violence against his wife and teenage daughter.
[7][1] In August 2018, Boston police commissioner William G. Gross promoted White to superintendent and named him chief of staff.
These allegations resulted in a judge issuing a restraining order on May 5, 1999, that forced White to vacate his home, stay away from his wife and children, and surrender his service weapon.
[12] In a news conference later that day, Janey stated that White was still on administrative leave, awaiting outcome of the court action.
[21] On June 7, 2021, Acting Mayor Janey fired White from his position as police commissioner, ending a five-month period of limbo while independent investigations and legal challenges were conducted.
[3] In 2021, White filed suit against the City of Boston and former mayor Janey on multiple grounds, including defamation, violation of his right to privacy, and lack of due process.