Massachusetts State Police sergeant, Gary Cederquist, was dishonorably discharged after being charged in a bribery scheme involving commercial driving tests. The Registry of Motor Vehicles downgraded licenses of 26 drivers who didn’t pass the tests. The scheme involved falsifying records and giving preferential treatment to drivers. The RMV confirmed no crashes were caused by these drivers.
Cederquist and five others, including current and retired troopers, face more than 70 charges related to the bribery scheme. They are accused of passing failing drivers in exchange for goods or services. The troopers communicated using code words like “golden.” The RMV revoked licenses but is cooperating with the investigation.
Despite the 2019 scandal involving Troop E troopers collecting overtime pay fraudulently, the recent bribery case adds to concerns about integrity in the state police. The system to certify commercial drivers is under scrutiny. The State Police Association expressed disappointment in the indictments and called for a thorough examination of the facts.
In response to the scandal, the state police have implemented reforms to the CDL unit, including requiring body cameras during exams and increasing supervisor visits. Colonel John Mawn Jr., the interim superintendent, condemned the alleged misconduct in a statement. The ongoing investigations aim to hold those accountable for their actions and ensure the values of honesty and integrity within the department are maintained.
Source
Photo credit www.nbcboston.com
