Trooper Michael Proctor, the lead investigator in the Karen Read case, has been suspended without pay following an internal hearing by the Massachusetts State Police. Proctor’s conduct during the trial led to personal texts being revealed where he used degrading language regarding the defendant, leading to criticism and an internal review. The mistrial declared on July 1 prompted Proctor to be placed on leave.
The State Police held a duty status hearing for Proctor, where a board recommended his suspension without pay. Interim State Police Colonel John Mawn accepted the recommendation, citing the need to regain public trust following the misconduct displayed in the trial. The state is currently looking for a new colonel amid various scandals within the agency.
Proctor, who was also under internal review following a federal investigation into the O’Keefe homicide, earned $184,397 in the last year, according to state records. During the trial, Proctor’s texts were revealed in which he made derogatory comments about Read, leading to widespread criticism.
The State Police internal affairs investigation into Proctor is ongoing and may result in charges adjudicated by a State Police Trial Board. Proctor apologized for his comments during the trial, stating they do not detract from the integrity of the investigations.
Overall, Proctor’s suspension without pay marks a significant development in the aftermath of the mistrial in the Read case, highlighting the importance of upholding professional conduct within law enforcement agencies.
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