A former Massachusetts State Police sergeant has been convicted on multiple charges by a federal jury in Boston. Gary Cederquist, 59, was found guilty in connection with a bribery and extortion conspiracy that involved issuing false passing scores for Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) applicants. The applicants included those who had failed or did not take the CDL skills test. The verdict was announced by United States Attorney Leah B. Foley, who expressed dismay at law enforcement committing crimes that compromise public safety.
The investigation into Cederquist’s conduct revealed a disturbing abuse of power where he, along with his co-conspirators, arranged for at least three dozen applicants to receive passing scores, bypassing mandatory testing protocols. These actions spanned from February 2019 to January 2023. The former sergeant was not alone in his wrongdoing; he was charged along with three other MSP troopers and two civilians, all of whom have since accepted responsibility for their roles in the conspiracy. According to statements acquired by The Department of Justice, the co-defendants include former Trooper Calvin Butner, Perry Mendes, Joel Rogers, civilian Scott Camara, and Eric Mathison.
The case shone a light on a betrayal of public trust and highlighted the critical importance of maintaining integrity in positions of authority. Homeland Security Investigations New England Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol stated on U.S. Attorney's Office, "Today’s verdict confirms that Gary Cederquist abused his authority as a Massachusetts State Trooper to recklessly bypass long-established testing and safety parameters for commercial driver’s license applicants." Krol emphasized the disparity between Cederquist's actions and the expected conduct of state troopers who dutifully adhere to the standards of their uniform.
Cederquist's crimes were motivated by personal gain, with bribes ranging from free inventory from a water company to substantial home improvements. Principal Assistant Inspector General for Investigations at the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Elise Chawaga, remarked on the gravity of the case, affirming the commitment of her department to uphold motor carrier rules and regulations. She pointed out how crucial these regulations are for ensuring safety on our nation's roadways.
The seriousness of Cederquist's actions is also reflected in the potential sentences for the charges he faces. The counts include conspiracy to commit extortion, extortion, honest services mail fraud, falsification of records, and false statements, carrying maximum sentences of up to 20 years in prison for the most severe offenses. Sentencing is scheduled for July 24, as set by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani.
