Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins Faces Federal Charges
Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins, a notable figure in Massachusetts Democratic politics, has recently found himself in hot water, facing federal corruption charges linked to extorting a cannabis company seeking to operate in Boston. Though Tompkins, 67, was released on a $200,000 bond after his arrest last Friday, he has yet to announce plans for resignation amid escalating scrutiny.
Tompkins rose to prominence in 2013 when he was appointed sheriff by then-Governor Deval Patrick, stepping into the role after Andrea Cabral vacated it. He has since been re-elected for two additional six-year terms, with his current tenure set to expire in 2028. Before taking on his law enforcement role, Tompkins served as a senior political advisor to U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren during her 2012 campaign and played pivotal roles in various political campaigns, including that of current Boston Mayor Michelle Wu.
Despite his influential network of friends within the Democratic Party, including prominent current and former officeholders, public support for Tompkins has been noticeably lacking since the indictment was made public. The silence among his political allies raises questions about their continued relationship as the outcome of his legal troubles remains uncertain.
With no straightforward method to remove him from office, Tompkins’ future as sheriff hangs in the balance as he prepares for an upcoming arraignment in Boston. As the situation evolves, political observers will be keenly watching for any shifts in the tide of support from the Democratic establishment he once held close ties with.
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