Boston, MA – A Massachusetts jury has ordered the state police to pay $6.8 million after determining that the agency discriminated against female and minority troopers for years. The decision stems from a long-running lawsuit that accused leadership of allowing an unfair and biased system for promotions and job assignments.
Allegations of Systemic Bias
The lawsuit, filed in 2016, claimed that top officials intentionally handpicked candidates for coveted roles before the jobs were even posted. According to the complaint, this practice resulted in a “pattern of discriminatory practices” that held back qualified women and people of color, while less qualified white male officers advanced more quickly.
A group of plaintiffs made up of current and former troopers — including women, Black officers, and Hispanic officers — alleged that they were repeatedly passed over for promotions. They said the promotions instead went to white male troopers who often had more serious disciplinary histories.
Testimony from Troopers
Throughout the case, the plaintiffs described a culture where only certain people were given a clear path upward. Their lawyer argued that the department’s practices created an environment where diversity could not thrive.
State Police Respond to the Verdict
Following the verdict, the Massachusetts State Police issued a statement saying it has updated its internal processes and is committed to a more inclusive department.
“We continue to implement promotional processes that align the Department with national best practices and strengthen our workforce,” the agency said, adding that it aims to build a force “at every rank that reflects the communities we serve.”
The department noted that it has changed the way candidates are evaluated and promoted, focusing on skills, experience, and alignment with core policing values.
Diversity Concerns Cited in the Lawsuit
According to data cited in the lawsuit, as of September 2018, only 5% of the state police force were women and just under 10% were minorities. The complaint argued that the state had “created, maintained, and enforced substantial headwinds” that prevented the force from becoming more diverse.
Additional Scandals Heighten Scrutiny
The agency has faced multiple scandals in recent years, further increasing public pressure for accountability and reform.
One major incident was the overtime fraud scandal, which implicated dozens of current and retired troopers. Another involved Michael Proctor, the lead investigator in the high-profile Karen Read case, who was fired after a disciplinary board found he sent sexist and explicit messages about Read to colleagues and family.
Corruption Case Earlier This Year
In a separate case, a former state police sergeant was found guilty earlier this year of accepting bribes — including a snowblower and driveway work — in exchange for giving drivers passing scores on commercial vehicle tests. This case further intensified concerns about corruption and oversight failures within the department.
Why the Verdict Matters
For many advocates, the jury’s decision represents a significant acknowledgment of long-standing concerns about inequity and accountability within one of the state’s most powerful law enforcement agencies. It also serves as a reminder that discriminatory practices can carry major legal and financial consequences.
Looking Forward
The Massachusetts State Police say they intend to continue updating their hiring and promotion systems. With the agency promising adherence to national standards and a renewed commitment to fairness, observers will be watching to see whether meaningful change follows.
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