Need to get more information Healey declines to call for Sheriff Tompkinss resignation

Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins faces federal charges for extorting $50,000 from a cannabis executive seeking to open a dispensary in Boston. Governor Maura Healey, who previously endorsed Tompkins, has opted not to call for his resignation, stating she needs more information about the allegations. Prosecutors allege that Tompkins pressured the executive to buy shares in the cannabis company, allegedly disguising a refund of his investment as loan repayments. Healey highlighted the seriousness of the allegations and the importance of lawful conduct by elected officials. Attorney General Andrea Campbell, who could file a petition for Tompkins's removal, did not respond to inquiries.

The Supreme Judicial Court has broad authority to remove a sheriff, but a 1994 decision indicates the governor cannot suspend an indicted county sheriff. Tompkins has been sheriff since 2013 and was re-elected in 2022, solidifying his influence in Boston politics. His past infractions include civil penalties related to nepotism and misuse of his position.