Steven Tompkins, the 67-year-old Sheriff of Suffolk County, Massachusetts, has been arrested on federal extortion charges. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts alleges that Tompkins used his position to pressure a cannabis company executive into an improper investment deal.
According to the indictment, Sheriff Tompkins, who has led the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department since 2013, allegedly demanded a $50,000 stake in a Boston cannabis company at a discounted price. The company, which remains unnamed in court documents, reportedly needed Tompkins’ cooperation to fulfill state licensing requirements.
In 2019, prosecutors claim, Tompkins leveraged his department’s role in referring former inmates to work at the cannabis store—a requirement of the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission. The executive, fearing repercussions, allegedly acquiesced to Tompkins’ demands for discounted stock.
This case raises important questions about the abuse of power in public office. The FBI’s Boston Division characterizes the alleged actions as “clear-cut corruption under federal law.” If convicted, Tompkins could face up to 20 years in prison, supervised release, and substantial fines.
Both the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department and Tompkins’ attorney have declined to comment on these allegations. The evidence suggests that Tompkins will first appear in court in Florida before facing charges in Boston.
U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley emphasized the expectation for elected officials, particularly those in law enforcement, to maintain ethical standards and abide by the law. This case underscores the ongoing efforts to combat public corruption and uphold the integrity of democratic institutions.
This is a developing story, and we will continue to report on any new information as it becomes available.
