Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins Resigns from Roxbury Community College Board Following Federal Indictment
BOSTON, Massachusetts — Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins has resigned from his role as Chair of the Roxbury Community College Board of Trustees after being indicted on federal extortion charges last week. The resignation, effective August 12, 2025, comes amid growing public and political pressure.
In his resignation letter to Governor Maura Healey, Tompkins wrote:
“Please accept this letter as my formal resignation… I have greatly appreciated serving as a Trustee of Roxbury Community College’s Board and as Chair of the Board of Trustees.”
Governor Healey praised the decision, saying Tompkins “has made the right decision by stepping down.” Vice Chair Israül Marrero will now serve as interim chair.
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Uncertainty Over Tompkins’ Role as Sheriff
While Tompkins has stepped away from the college board, it remains unclear whether he will also resign as Suffolk County Sheriff.
Earlier this week, Governor Healey called the allegations “serious,” stating:
“No one in elected positions should ever use or abuse their power in an unlawful way. I need more information before commenting further on his role as sheriff.”
Details of the Federal Indictment
Tompkins was arrested in Florida last Friday after a federal grand jury indicted him on two counts of extortion. Prosecutors allege he pressured a Boston-based cannabis company executive to pay $50,000 in exchange for assistance in doing business in the city.
The U.S. Justice Department claims the scheme involved purchasing an equity stake in the company, leveraging his position as sheriff for personal gain.
Political and Legal Fallout
The indictment has sparked public debate over ethics in public office and raised questions about oversight for elected law enforcement officials. If convicted, Tompkins could face significant fines and prison time.
For now, the focus remains on whether he will continue serving as Suffolk County Sheriff amid the ongoing legal battle.
Steven Tompkins resignation, Suffolk County Sheriff news, Roxbury Community College Board, federal extortion charges, Boston sheriff indictment
By Zamal Uddin
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