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Boston Globe
22-05-2025
- Boston Globe
Globe sues 5 Mass. police departments in effort to shine light on shadowy world of confidential informants
Advertisement In an effort to shine a brighter light on this murky underworld, the Globe last week filed lawsuits against five of the state's largest police agencies, seeking to force broader disclosure. The lawsuits were lodged against the police departments of Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and New Bedford, as well as Massachusetts State Police, the state's largest law enforcement agency. All failed to comply with public records requests from the Globe. 'The public has the right to know how often its police departments build cases upon unidentified informants, what the practices are for using and protecting these informants, and ensuring this shadowy system is serving justice,' the Globe's editor, Nancy Barnes, said in a released statement. A recent Globe Spotlight Team series, Related : Advertisement Massachusetts, unlike some states, doesn't have a single law on the books governing the use of confidential informants. And the Bay State has been the site of numerous scandals involving CIs over the decades — ranging from the FBI's years-long protection of the ruthless South Boston gangster and informant James 'Whitey' Bulger to the 2013 demise of University of Massachusetts Amherst student Eric Sinacori, who died of a heroin overdose after police pressed him into service as a CI. The lawsuits against the police departments in Springfield, Worcester, and New Bedford, as well as the State Police, are similar: They accuse each agency of violating the public records law by 'wrongfully refusing to comply with' a request for documents that would show the scope and cost of each agency's network of confidential informants. Each of the suits asks a Superior Court judge to order the release of the records, free of charge, and to award attorney's fees. The Globe's suit against the Boston Police Department is broader than those filed against the other agencies, seeking records related to several search warrants as well as information about informants. It asks a judge not only to order the department to provide the Globe with the requested records and attorneys' fees, but also to issue an injunction against the department and the city over what the Globe's lawyers, Jonathan Albano and Samuel Thomas, call their 'serial violation of the Public Records Law.' Advertisement Boston police headquarters in Boston on June 9, 2021. Craig F. Walker/Globe Staff Not only did Boston police officials decline to provide any of the records sought by the Globe, they also ignored subsequent orders from the state's Supervisor of Public Records directing the department to comply. Sergeant Detective John Boyle, a Boston police spokesman, told the Globe the request could not be satisfied because the BPD lacks a central database that can be searched for such records. The Globe repeatedly pointed out that the department's regulations say they do have such a database, which is cited in the BPD's policy manual. Boston police also refused to provide records related to the late Michael A. White, a drug dealer and suspected informant for the BPD who played a key role in a In refusing to provide those records, Boston police said that confirming or denying that White — who died in 2002 — was an informant would reveal exempt information, as well as violate the privacy rights of White's 'family members or close personal associates.' The Globe's complaint noted that Boston police failed 'to cite any excuse for its serial noncompliance' with records law. The newspaper's attorneys wrote that absent an injunction, the department 'will regard itself as free to continue its serial violation' of the law. While about one in four police departments in Massachusetts simply didn't respond to the Globe's informant-related inquiries, another group of agencies provided only minimal information. Twenty-one police departments, including eight of the 10 largest in Massachusetts, refused to divulge almost anything about their CI programs — such as how many registered informants they have and how much they have paid them. Advertisement Of the nearly 340 departments Mostly, these are smaller agencies, including a number of university police departments. But there are some larger ones as well, including the police department in Brockton — one of the state's 10 biggest cities — and Revere, which makes regular use of CIs, according to the survey. Over the last five years, Revere has had 37 registered informants working for its police department. Revere was one of seven departments, along with those in Boylston, Hanson, Stoneham, Wellfleet, Webster, and Sterling, that reported using CIs but having no written policy on their use. Of the agencies that responded, the one with the most active informants was the Quincy Police Department, which reported 212. Next was Norwood, which reported 106 active informants. Together, those two municipalities accounted for more than a third of the total number of CIs that Massachusetts police departments have acknowledged using — a fact that underscores how incomplete the data provided to the Globe is. Likewise, the towns and cities that responded to the Globe collectively reported paying informants more than $300,000 over the five years ending Dec. 31, 2023. But more than half of that sum — $161,146 — was paid out by just four departments: Fitchburg, Gardner, Leominster, and the MetroWest Drug Task Force, a consortium led by Framingham police. The payments for those departments worked out to an average of about $890 per informant. Read the lawsuits filed by the Globe Dugan Arnett and Andrew Ryan of the Globe staff contributed to this report. Gordon Russell can be reached at
Time Business News
29-04-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Creating a New Identity: Navigating the Complex Realities in 2025
VANCOUVER, British Columbia – In an age dominated by digital footprints, surveillance databases, and biometric identifiers, creating a new identity has evolved from simple name changes to an intricate, high-risk undertaking. Amicus International Consulting, a global leader in privacy and identity solutions, explores the complex realities and legal pathways of constructing a sustainable, legitimate new identity. The New Fabric of Identity Today's identity extends far beyond a name or physical appearance. It encompasses an expansive web of government records, financial histories, social security numbers, online activities, and biometric data. Individuals seeking a new start must understand that modern identity is thoroughly documented and interconnected. Legally changing one's name through court proceedings is relatively straightforward. Altering one's appearance via plastic surgery is possible. However, these superficial changes fail to address deeper, systemic connections—such as birth records, tax histories, and digital footprints—that tie individuals to their past. An employee at Amicus International Consulting emphasized, 'It's no longer enough to change how you look or what you're called. Your data is your identity—and that data is everywhere.' The Fundamental Challenges Several key components make crafting a truly new identity nearly impossible without expert guidance: Birth Certificate : The foundational document of nationality, age, and parentage. : The foundational document of nationality, age, and parentage. Social Security Number (SSN) : In the United States, the SSN ties together banking, taxes, employment, and legal documents. It is not legally changeable except under extraordinary circumstances. : In the United States, the SSN ties together banking, taxes, employment, and legal documents. It is not legally changeable except under extraordinary circumstances. Financial Records : Credit card transactions, bank accounts, and tax filings leave digital trails that persist even after a name change. : Credit card transactions, bank accounts, and tax filings leave digital trails that persist even after a name change. Employment History : Verified work records can undermine new identities during background checks. : Verified work records can undermine new identities during background checks. Digital Footprints: Social media profiles, emails, browsing histories, and loyalty card programs contribute to an indelible digital presence. Each element is embedded in multiple databases, making unauthorized identity changes impractical and potentially criminal. Case Study: James 'Whitey' Bulger James 'Whitey' Bulger, one of Boston's most notorious crime bosses, famously evaded capture for 16 years by assuming multiple false identities. Bulger acquired legitimate documents from homeless individuals and built credible new lives in various locations across the United States. However, despite his tactical brilliance, Bulger's ultimate downfall resulted from a single slip-up: a neighbour recognized him, leading to his arrest. His case underlines a harsh truth—even meticulously constructed false identities can crumble under casual scrutiny. The Dark Web: A Mirage of Easy Solutions Underground networks and dark web vendors promise 'new identities' featuring passports, driver's licenses, and birth certificates. Markets in Bangkok, Thailand, and Eastern Europe are notorious for manufacturing impressively authentic-looking documentation. However, these documents rarely survive database verification. Today's law enforcement and border security agencies use centralized data systems and biometric verification. When scanned, forged documents fail to match existing digital records or biometric templates. An Amicus International Consulting representative noted, 'Buying a fake passport is like buying a counterfeit dollar bill—you might fool a few people temporarily, but official scrutiny will expose it instantly.' Case Study: Ramon Abbas aka 'Hushpuppi' Nigerian social media influencer Ramon Abbas, known as Hushpuppi, lived lavishly under fabricated identities while conducting online fraud schemes worth millions. Despite his careful planning, authorities tracked him via digital footprints, particularly his social media activity, and arrested him in Dubai in 2020. This case highlights how no luxury or false documentation can shield an individual from exposure when digital trails are neglected. Real Alternatives: Legal and Ethical Solutions Amicus International Consulting advocates legal, sustainable approaches for individuals seeking privacy and new beginnings. Some viable options include: Legal Name Changes : Individuals can petition the court for a name change and update identification documents. While it does not erase records, it legally establishes a fresh identity. : Individuals can petition the court for a name change and update identification documents. While it does not erase records, it legally establishes a fresh identity. Residency and Citizenship by Investment : Certain countries, including Grenada, Malta, and St. Kitts and Nevis, offer second passports to individuals making significant financial investments, providing new legal identities under legitimate, internationally recognized programs. : Certain countries, including Grenada, Malta, and St. Kitts and Nevis, offer second passports to individuals making significant financial investments, providing new legal identities under legitimate, internationally recognized programs. Strategic Relocation : Moving to regions with less data-sharing cooperation can help reduce exposure to old records. : Moving to regions with less data-sharing cooperation can help reduce exposure to old records. Expert Consulting: Legally navigating identity reconstruction requires experienced, knowledgeable advisors who understand international law, immigration regulations, and privacy rights. Case Study: Frank Abagnale Jr. The story of Frank Abagnale Jr., popularized in the movie Catch Me If You Can , remains a classic example of identity manipulation. As a teenager, Abagnale successfully posed as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer by forging documents and credentials. Ultimately, Abagnale was caught. After serving prison, he rebuilt his life legally, later working with the FBI to help prevent fraud. His life underscores a critical reality: deception eventually fails, but legitimate reinvention through legal means offers long-term stability. Psychological Impacts of Living Under a New Identity The strain of maintaining a false identity can lead to severe psychological issues. Individuals must constantly monitor conversations, remember fabricated backstories, and fear exposure daily. Over time, this level of vigilance leads to isolation, anxiety, and depression. An Amicus International Consulting professional explains, 'True peace of mind comes from building a lawful, verifiable new life, not living in constant fear of discovery.' Ethical and Legal Considerations Creating a new identity outside legal frameworks often involves fraud, forgery, or misrepresentation, exposing individuals to criminal charges. Penalties for identity fraud are severe, including heavy fines and lengthy prison sentences in jurisdictions like the United States, Canada, and the European Union. Amicus International Consulting focuses exclusively on legal solutions that protect clients' rights while respecting international law. Their strategies include court-ordered name changes, obtaining legitimate second passports, and advising on digital privacy practices. Building a New Identity: A Step-by-Step Approach For those considering starting fresh, Amicus International Consulting outlines a lawful pathway: Legal Name Change: File for a court-approved name change in your jurisdiction. Update Official Documents: Apply for new government-issued IDS, such as passports and driver's licenses. Second Citizenship: If privacy is critical, apply for legitimate citizenship-by-investment programs offering new nationalities. Relocation Strategy: Move to a jurisdiction with favourable privacy laws. Digital Hygiene: Secure personal data online, use encrypted communications, and limit social media exposure. Each step must be carefully documented and executed to avoid inconsistencies that could trigger scrutiny. The Futility of Faking It: Reality Check In the modern era, attempting to 'buy' a new identity through illegitimate means is largely futile. Biometric databases, financial monitoring, and global data-sharing agreements ensure that fraudulent identities are swiftly exposed. Amicus International Consulting firmly advises against illegal activities. Instead, they offer structured, ethical solutions for individuals facing personal safety threats, political persecution, or other legitimate privacy concerns. Conclusion: A New Beginning, Built on Solid Ground The romantic vision of simply 'disappearing' into a new life is a myth in 2025. Modern technology ensures that almost all footprints are traceable. Creating a sustainable, secure new identity demands legality, careful planning, and expert guidance. Amicus International Consulting remains committed to helping clients achieve peace of mind through legal identity management solutions. Amicus International Consulting empowers clients to reclaim their freedom without fear of future exposure through lawful name changes, second citizenships, relocation strategies, and expert privacy consulting. For those ready to turn a new page in life, the right path begins with knowledge, legality, and trusted expertise. 📞 Contact Information Phone: +1 (604) 200-5402Email: info@ Website:
