In 1986, Frederick B. Macdonald retired from the Massachusetts State Police after 24 years of service. He retired as a Lieutenant from the Northampton Barracks where he was the Executive Officer for Troop B. A Graduate of Quinsigamond Community College, he also attended Clark University and Boston College while with the State Police. After his retirement, he worked first in the private sector. In 1992, he was asked and decided to run for the Sheriff of Franklin County. His bid was successful, and on January 6^th, 1993, Sheriff Macdonald was sworn into office.