Accused Cop Killer Goes on Trial This Week

Jury selection in the first-degree murder trial of Thomas Latanowich is slated to begin Monday in Barnstable Superior Court.  Latanowich is accused of killing Yarmouth Police Sgt. and New Bedford native Sean Gannon in April, 2018.

Police say it was Latanowich who opened fire on Sgt. Gannon and his police K-9, Nero while Gannon was serving an arrest warrant at a home in Marstons Mills.  Gannon died from his wounds, however Nero survived.

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During a standoff with police after the shooting, Latanowich allegedly texted a former girlfriend, "I killed a cop," and "I'm taking as many as I can," according to a police report. He surrendered a short time later.

The 33-year old Latanowich is facing nine counts, including first degree murder and being an armed career criminal.

Gannon was a well-respected officer within the Yarmouth Police Department.  He grew up in New Bedford and attended City schools.  Members of his family, including his mother, still live in the area.