Massachusetts State Police Colonel Discusses Agency Scandals and Future Plans
FRAMINGHAM, Mass. — Nearly a year into his tenure, Colonel Geoffrey Noble of the Massachusetts State Police addressed pressing concerns during a candid interview with NewsCenter 5’s Ben Simmoneau. The agency has faced significant scrutiny, particularly following the firing of Trooper Michael Proctor, the lead investigator in the controversial Karen Read murder case. Proctor is accused of prematurely naming Read as a suspect without a thorough review of the evidence, leading to questions about the integrity of ongoing investigations.
"His actions compromised a large portion of public trust within this department," Noble acknowledged. He emphasized the importance of rebuilding that trust, noting that while Proctor’s actions reflect on an individual level, they impact the broader perception of the agency as a whole.
Noble, who is the first colonel appointed from outside the Massachusetts police ranks, has implemented a strategic plan dubbed the "Excellence Initiative.” This plan aims to enhance police services by placing more supervisors on patrol and restructuring command ranks.
Additionally, concerns surrounding safety at the State Police Academy were raised following the tragic death of Trooper recruit Enrique Delgado-Garcia during a training exercise. Noble stated that, although an independent investigation is ongoing, the agency is committed to ensuring a safe training environment and is open to external oversight.
When asked about resistance to his changes, Noble noted that while any organizational transformation may encounter hesitance, he has not faced specific opposition to his vision for reform. "I focus my time on being forward-thinking," he said, reaffirming his commitment to addressing challenges and enhancing the agency’s reputation.
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