BPD commissioner wont face state review, despite push from Karen Reads attorney

The Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission confirmed that Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox will not undergo disciplinary review for his comments regarding the Karen Read case. This decision follows criticism from Read's attorney Alan Jackson, who accused Cox of dishonesty concerning his interactions with former Officer Kelly Dever. During her testimony, Dever stated she spoke with Cox before appearing in court, maintaining he did not try to sway her statements. Jackson's demand for a review stressed concerns about Cox's credibility and called for his inclusion on a prosecutors' Brady list, which tracks law enforcement officials with questioned integrity. The Commission clarified its current policies do not apply to civilian executives like Cox, who do not perform police duties.

However, it is actively reconsidering how to regulate civilian oversight of law enforcement. Cox, eager to distance himself from the case, remarked on the tragedy of losing a department member while asserting the matter is unrelated to police operations. His comments reflect a broader desire to protect the integrity of the police department amid ongoing scrutiny.