Latest news with #GeoffreyNoble
CBS News
19 hours ago
- Politics
- CBS News
How Geoffrey Noble plans to reshape Massachusetts State Police amid controversies
FRAMINGHAM – Nearly one year into his tenure as the head of Massachusetts' largest police force, State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble is sitting down with WBZ's Kristina Rex to talk about the department's image and reforms he feels are necessary to restore public confidence. Noble, a Rhode Island native, was a state trooper in New Jersey for much of his career, including 17 years investigating deaths. He was named Massachusetts' new state police colonel in September 2024 after a large external search by Governor Healey. Noble took the job knowing that the state police had just come off of a major overtime scandal, the death of a recruit during academy training, and the first Karen Read trial. "I worked my entire career and many times I got to work alongside the Massachusetts State Police and the women and men of the Massachusetts State Police in in an operational capacity and through all those experiences I developed a profound respect for the Massachusetts State Police for the institution of the Massachusetts State Police and for what it represents," Noble said. "Overseeing what was occurring and in the shortfalls and the scandals that had happened – that was not the Massachusetts State Police. That was not representative of the Massachusetts State Police that I had gotten to know personally over the years." Noble believes the people of Massachusetts are so frustrated by state police failures because they see the potential for the agency. "This belief in the Massachusetts State Police and the excellence that it should represent, and this slippage that has occurred – that resonates with the community equally as it resonates with me so that's why I'm here," he explained. "We all agree that the Massachusetts State Police needs to be held accountable. The public agrees with that and our troopers, I can assure you, agree with that." Noble was the final decision maker for the firing of former state police Trooper Michael Proctor, who was fired for inappropriate text messages about Karen Read and his handling of the investigation into John O'Keefe's death. "That's a decision that's got my name on it and I stand behind that decision," he said. Proctor is currently appealing his termination. "Our mission needs to be laser focused on finding the truth, period, hard stop," Noble said. "That's what the mission of a detective is, is to uncover the truth regardless of what direction that it takes you and to follow the facts and evidence of your investigation and to do so with integrity, confidentiality and with the professionalism that we expect." When asked whether he felt Proctor led the investigation into O'Keefe's death in pursuit of the truth, Noble said, "a reminder to our core mission [of finding truth] is appropriate here." There have been systemic changes in response to Proctor's firing. Recently, the first group of 500 troopers who investigate serious crimes attended a mandatory continuing education training – one that Noble says will be the first of many. "Any trooper that's assigned to a specialized unit will be required to undergo advanced training to keep up with the changing dynamics or the environment but also be adaptive," Noble said. Proctor was the only trooper fired for his handling of the case, but Troopers Brian Tully and Yuriy Bukhenik were both relocated out of the Norfolk County District Attorney's office. "Ultimately the transfer of troopers lies with me," Noble explained. "It was felt across multiple levels that we needed to make some changes. Putting new commanders and new supervisors in key positions, particularly in Norfolk County, I firmly believe was a decision in the best interest of the Commonwealth." Still. Noble recognizes that the investigation done by state police likely contributed to the outcome of the case. Investigators and prosecutors wholeheartedly believe, they have indicated, that Karen Read was responsible for the death of John O'Keefe. Read was acquitted of all major charges in June. "Do you feel as though state police's performance in that investigation contributed to the lack of conviction at the end of the day?" WBZ's Kristina Rex asked. "Absolutely," Noble replied. "The investigative body has to look through that and to say, 'why? Did we not give the jurors enough information…was our investigation lacking?'" "I think we, the state police, have to look in the mirror and say 'yeah what could we have done better,'" he explained. When asked if the investigation into the death of John O'Keefe was formally closed or whether there would be more investigation, Noble said that decision was in the hands of Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrissey. WBZ asked the DA's office the same question – to which a spokesperson replied, referencing special prosecutor Hank Brennan's post trial statement, in which Brennan states, "After an independent and thorough review of all the evidence, I concluded that the evidence led to one person, and only one person," meaning Karen Read. Asked if he feels confident that if a similar situation like the death of John O'Keefe were to happen now, if his troopers would behave differently, Noble replied, "I have every bit of confidence sitting here today that if we have an investigation that we're called to today regardless of the scope regardless of the complexity that we…[can] ensure that our investigations right now are being done to excellent standards right now." Immediately before Noble started his tenure as Colonel, a state police recruit died during a boxing training exercise at the academy. Enrique Delgado Garcia's death sparked outrage and protests about safety practices in police training. His family has demanded answers. An independent attorney has been appointed to investigate the state police academy training, and Garcia's death. "By design, Massachusetts State Police is walled off from that investigation," Noble said, explaining that he knows no further details than the public regarding the investigation into Garcia's death. Noble said he thinks appointing a special investigator was the right move. "We, like so many others – the community, the family – we want the same answers," he said. "We are eager to hear the results of the investigation." In addition, police experts from across the country are currently observing state police training, with the plan to write a full report that Noble promises will be shared with the public when it is completed. Still, he says the department is working to improve its training on its own in the meantime. External police chiefs and experts from across the country have been welcomed in to watch training, and will issue a report that Noble promises will be shown to the public when it is ready. "Our resolve and our commitment to ensure that we do everything in our power to not have that [happen] again is never ending," Noble said. Another area of criticism for the colonel has been the death of Sandra Birchmore, a pregnant Canton woman whose death was ruled a suicide when it was investigated by state police. Later, federal investigators intervened and have since arrested former Stoughton police officer Matthew Farwell. They've charged him with murdering Birchmore and staging her death like a suicide. "Where and why did state police drop the ball there?" Rex asked Noble. "That investigation certainly is ongoing right now so I can't comment specifically on that investigation," he said, but he corrected the perception that having federal investigators intervene necessarily reflects failure. "We welcome another agency coming in and looking at an investigation," he said. "I think there's a little bit of misinformation out there that there is on whether it's that particular case to others we welcome [federal intervention]. There's no space between us [and the feds]; we want the same thing," Noble said. In response to the fallout from several public scandals, state police online recruiting efforts have been met with harsh backlash. The department currently has around 2,400 sworn and 650 unsworn officers, plus two ongoing academies of trainees, Noble said. He described staffing as "healthy," but said the department is working to recruit due to expected retirements of senior staff. With big events like FIFA coming to the state in 2026, he anticipates the agency will need to ramp up staffing – hence, the online recruiting. But every post draws widespread backlash. "I can't believe state police have to recruit," one post read. "It used to be one of the best jobs in the Commonwealth; now it's a punchline." "My response to that is: engage with us, talk to us," Noble said. "Through these messages and through our recruiting campaign we are formally opening that door to say: learn about us; challenge us." "I think that anytime we see an erosion of public trust, anytime a police department has an incident that calls into question the integrity of the institution or the individual troopers, absolutely there is an impact on recruiting," Noble said. In June 2025, Colonel Noble announced what he's named "The Excellence Initiative," which "underscores the Department's unwavering commitment to upholding its values of integrity and professionalism, ensuring operational excellence and accountability, fostering community engagement and public trust," according to his announcement. The initiative is a top-down approach to try to bring the state police back to its expected standards, he explained. "We're not running away from the tough questions and that's not just me saying that, that's the entire department," Noble said. His message to the public? "We take their expectations profoundly…The people of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts expect and deserve that their Mass. State Police are the best in the business, are out there achieving and executing the job of policing to the highest standards and they should expect that."
Boston Globe
02-07-2025
- Boston Globe
Ahead of annual Fourth of July fireworks show, officials say ‘be vigilant — but not fearful'
Advertisement Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble said state police will deploy a 'comprehensive, multi-layered security plan.' Specialized units and canines will be around the site, while the marine unit and air wing will patrol from the water and the air. Like in Ted Docks, of FBI Boston, said his office is not tracking specific threats in response to recent 'However, we must remain vigilant and mindful of the significance of this holiday,' he said. 'Boston will continue to be a symbolic target due to our many patriotic and historical landmarks.' Advertisement Docks added that the FBI Boston Joint Terrorism Task Force will actively scrub available intelligence, and integrate itself with state and local law enforcement partners around the Esplanade. 'Everyone here has tried to strike the right balance between an appropriate security posture and the ability for everyone to have a fun day,' Docks said. Officials encouraged visitors to report any suspicious activity. When people speak up, it decreases the chance of mass acts of violence, Docks said. 'We want you to be vigilant — but not fearful,' he said. Officials are also urging people to take advantage of public transit. Transit Police Chief Kenneth Green said alcohol consumption while on the MBTA 'will not be tolerated.' Kwon said to 'leave the fireworks to the professionals,' given that Massachusetts law prohibits the possession, use, and sale of fireworks without a permit and certification. Officials encouraged visitors to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and keep track of personal belongings. 'Really try to tank up. Pregame a bit with water,' said James Hooley, the Chief of Boston Emergency Medial Services. Advertisement Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular The live concert — featuring the famous Boston Pops orchestra — will be at the Hatch Shell and start Friday at 7 p.m. Fireworks start at 9:40 p.m. The free event is based on a first-come, first-served basis. The event will be broadcast live on WHDH-TV (Channel 7) from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., and broadcast nationally on The CW Networks at 9 p.m. Boston Harborfest The three-day event features an opening ceremony in Downtown Crossing, historical reenactments, and live musical performances. On Wednesday at 9:15 p.m., fireworks will be launched at Boston's Long Wharf, with viewing points along the Inner harbor. Independence Day Parade On Friday at 9 a.m., a parade will kick off from City Hall Plaza and proceed along Tremont Street with a brief stop at the Granary Burying Ground to honor historic figures. The event is free and open to the public. Jessica Ma can be reached at
CBS News
19-06-2025
- CBS News
Head of Massachusetts State Police responds to Karen Read verdict
The latest on the Karen Read verdict as the town of Canton looks to move on The latest on the Karen Read verdict as the town of Canton looks to move on The latest on the Karen Read verdict as the town of Canton looks to move on Massachusetts State Police Col. Geoffrey Noble said that in the aftermath of the Karen Read case, the department will continue to work on improvements in oversight and accountability. On Wednesday, Read was acquitted of second-degree murder, manslaughter while operating under the influence of alcohol, and leaving the scene of bodily injury in the 2022 death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O'Keefe. Read was found guilty of operating under the influence (OUI). Several members of the Massachusetts State Police were disciplined in recent months for their conduct during Read's case. That included Michael Proctor, the lead investigator who was fired after Read's first trial. Noble issued a statement about the verdict on Thursday. "The Massachusetts State Police extends its sincere condolences to the loved ones of Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe," Noble said. "The events of the last three years have challenged our Department to thoroughly review our actions and take concrete steps to deliver advanced investigative training, ensure appropriate oversight, and enhance accountability. Under my direction as Colonel, the State Police has, and will continue to, improve in these regards. Our focus remains on delivering excellent police services that reflect the value of professionalism and maintain public trust." Massachusetts State Police said that since Noble joined the department in October 2024, he has implemented new training for members assigned in investigative roles. That includes training on courtroom testimony and new policies surrounding social media and personal phone use. Proctor was fired in part for messages he sent about Read on his personal phone. Additional trainings were added surrounding case management and reporting, as well as the DNA process, police said.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Yahoo
Sobriety checkpoint by Mass. State Police in Hampden County Friday the 13th
CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – State Police will be conducting a sobriety checkpoint this Friday in Hampden County to help prevent under-the-influence driving. Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble states the checkpoint will be held somewhere in Hampden County between Friday, June 13th, into Saturday, June 14th. Trooper seriously injured in hit-and-run on Mass. Pike in Chicopee The checkpoints are an effort to help educate drivers and bring awareness to detecting a motorist driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. State Police say they will be done during various hours and the selection of vehicles will not be arbitrary. Signs will also inform drivers of an upcoming checkpoint to reduce fear and anxiety. During the sobriety checkpoints held in Hampden and Norfolk Counties on the last weekend of March, troopers arrested 14 drivers who were charged with operating under the influence. In addition, three people were arrested for other criminal offenses, 12 criminal summonses issued, 79 tickets for speeding, 18 seatbelt violations, six cell phone violations, and several firearms were recovered from a driver charged with OUI. The sobriety checkpoints are funded through a grant by the Office of Grants and Research of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security. WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Yahoo
WMass trooper injured in hit-and-run crash while on duty ‘in good spirits'
SPRINGFIELD — A Massachusetts state trooper injured in an hit-and-run collision overnight suffered serious injuries that are not considered life-threatening. 'I can tell you he's in good spirits,' State Police Col. Geoffrey Noble told reporters on Tuesday. 'He's in for a long recovery.' The trooper, who has not yet been identified, had pulled over a tractor-trailer early Tuesday morning and was struck by another motorist on the side of the Massachusetts Turnpike near the Chicopee exit, Noble said. 'He was on the way home after finishing his shift, but state troopers are never off-duty while they're in a marked cruiser,' Noble said, standing outside Baystate Medical Center with some of the clinicians who treated the injured trooper. The driver took off from the crash scene, according to law enforcement officials. 'This was a hit-and-run. The operator did not remain at the scene,' Noble said. The driver was arrested around noon Tuesday, but they have yet to be identified. An arraignment has been scheduled in Chicopee District Court on Wednesday morning. The injured trooper had been with the state police for less than a year, but had been a member of law enforcement for a decade. Noble declined to discuss the charges the driver may face, nor would he go into more detail about the trooper's injuries. The incident happened just after 2:20 a.m., close to Exit 51 on the westbound side of Interstate 90, state police said earlier on Tuesday. The crash is under investigation by Massachusetts State Police and troopers assigned to the Hampden County District Attorney's Office. Anyone with information on the crash is urged to call 413-505-5993 to speak with state police detectives with the district attorney's office. Noble said the crash that injured the trooper puts a fine point on the importance of careful driving. He also emphasized the importance of the 'Move Over' law in this state, requiring drivers to move over a lane if they spot first responders pulled over on the side of the road. 'We want to ensure that you drive in a safe manner and drive in a sober manner,' Noble said. MassLive's Irene Rotondo contributed to this report. Springfield grants $3.5M for 19 preservation projects, rejects 1 housing request Amherst Cinema presents free short film festival in celebration of Juneteenth Springfield, Longmeadow PDs warn of scams with officers demanding Bitcoin, other payments 400 hungry WMass families fed with donation effort by Price Rite, partners Read the original article on MassLive.
