The search for a new leader for the Massachusetts State Police is underway, following the retirement of former Colonel Christopher Mason in February 2023. Several internal candidates, including interim Colonel John E. Mawn Jr., Deputy Superintendent John Pinkham, and Captain Kathryn Downey, have been named finalists, along with external candidates being considered by Attorney General Maura Healey.
The selection process is being conducted by a six-member committee appointed by the governor, focusing on professionalism, integrity, and competence in the new colonel. The agency has faced a series of scandals, including accusations of racial profiling, excessive force, and slow internal affairs investigations, leading to a need for a new leader to bring about significant change.
The State Police Association of Massachusetts union, representing about 2,000 troopers and sergeants, emphasizes the need for someone with strong institutional knowledge to lead the department. Critics argue that the agency requires a hard reset and a change in culture to rebuild public trust and improve accountability.
Recent scandals, including troopers being indicted for taking bribes to grant commercial driver’s licenses and inappropriate text messages by a trooper involved in the Karen Read trial, have added to the agency’s challenges. The next leader of the State Police will need to address these issues and work towards regaining public confidence and legitimacy in law enforcement operations.
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