Massachusetts Attorney General and Governor Issue Statement on Suffolk County Sheriff Stephen Tompkins

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell and Governor Maura Healey have issued a joint statement regarding Suffolk County Sheriff Stephen Tompkins, who has agreed to step away from his position until the federal case against him is resolved. The allegations against Tompkins are serious, and the state officials have emphasized the importance of maintaining trust in the integrity of the criminal justice system. The Special Sheriff, Mark Lawhorne, will fill the role until the case is resolved.

Key Takeaways:

• Suffolk County Sheriff Stephen Tompkins has agreed to step away from his position until the federal case against him is resolved.
• The role of Sheriff Tompkins will be filled by the Special Sheriff, Mark Lawhorne, consistent with state law.
• Governor Maura Healey has emphasized the importance of maintaining trust in the integrity of the criminal justice system, stating that the people of Massachusetts need to be able to trust in the integrity of the system.
• Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has stated that this is the right step for the Sheriff's Office and the public, as it avoids prolonged proceedings before the Supreme Judicial Court.
• Since taking office, Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll's top priority has been building a Massachusetts that's affordable, competitive, and equitable for every family, worker, and business.
• The Attorney General is the chief lawyer and law enforcement officer of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Statistics:

• Over 1,000 employees work under the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office.
• Hundreds of inmates are managed by the Sheriff's Office.
• The Sheriff's Office oversees essential programs for public safety and rehabilitation.

Sources:

• Massachusetts Attorney General's Office
• Governor Maura Healey's Office
• Suffolk County Sheriff's Office
• Massachusetts.gov