Mass State Troopers Arrested: What Happened?
by Alaguvelan M
Updated Jan 31, 2024
Mass State Troopers Arrested
In a troubling development, some Massachusetts State Troopers have been arrested due to a bribery scandal involving commercial driver's licenses (CDLs). CDLs are special licenses required to drive large vehicles like trucks and buses.
The troopers are accused of taking bribes to give passing scores to applicants, even if they didn't perform well in the CDL test. This scandal has raised concerns about corruption within the state police force and the need for stricter oversight.
The individuals involved, including Sergeant Gary Cederquist and Trooper Joel Rogers, are facing serious charges like extortion and fraud. They allegedly accepted gifts, such as driveway repaving and a snowblower, in exchange for passing unqualified drivers.
This has brought further embarrassment to the Massachusetts State Police, which has faced other scandals in recent years. The police force's interim superintendent, Col. John Mawn Jr., strongly condemned the alleged misconduct, emphasizing that such actions go against the values expected from troopers.
The scandal has prompted reforms within the CDL Unit, including the use of body cameras during exams to ensure transparency and accountability. This incident has highlighted the importance of maintaining the integrity of licensing processes, especially when it comes to driving large and potentially dangerous vehicles.
The arrests also underscore the need for ongoing efforts to address corruption and uphold public trust within law enforcement agencies.
Mass State Troopers Arrested - FAQs
The charges include extortion, fraud, and falsifying records as part of an alleged bribery scheme related to commercial driver's licenses (CDLs).
The conspiracy dates back five years, allowing unqualified applicants to receive guaranteed passing scores on their CDL tests in exchange for various goods or services.
The troopers are accused of accepting free goods, such as driveway repaving, snow blowers, and landscaping work, in exchange for passing applicants who may not have performed well on the CDL test.
Following the federal investigation, the State Police implemented reforms in the Commercial Driver Licensing Unit, including requiring troopers to wear body cameras during CDL exams.
The investigation identified more than two dozen drivers who may have received CDLs fraudulently, and their names have been referred to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.