Last modified: Saturday, November 10, 2007 12:38 AM EST Fran O'Leary heads up the North Attleboro/Plainville Chamber of Commerce. (Staff photo by MARK STOCKWELL) Assault case against ex-chief moved BY DAVID LINTON SUN CHRONICLE STAFF ATTLEBORO - The criminal domestic case against retired Attleboro Police Chief Roland Sabourin has been transferred to Fall River District Court to avoid the appearance of conflict of interest with local court officials. Attleboro District Court Judge Gregory L. Phillips said he asked that the case be transferred to dispel any potential for an appearance of conflict. Sabourin, 59, is a longtime city police chief and police officer for 32 years who is familiar with local court officials and employees. The transfer was approved by the state Trial Court administration, but no date for a continuance in Fall River has been determined, court officials said. Sabourin, who retired in 2002, was arrested Sept. 26 on charges of assault, resisting arrest and uttering threats stemming from an argument with his wife at their South Attleboro home. Treatment completed He pleaded innocent and was ordered to under alcohol treatment at a private rehabilitation center on Cape Cod, which his lawyer, Robert Ovoian of Attleboro, said Sabourin has successfully completed. As a condition of his release, Sabourin must also regularly report to the probation department and undergo random drug and alcohol tests. His wife, Sara, obtained a restraining order after the alleged incident, claimed a history of physical and mental abuse, as well as alcohol abuse by her husband. Before leaving court Friday, Sabourin said, "I'm anxious for redemption and my hope is that I can reconcile this with my wife." Sabourin is accused of coming home drunk and threatening to kill his wife during an argument. He allegedly struggled with a police officer while the officer tried to handcuff him, according to court records.