In a move aimed at fortifying the state's environmental defense, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has designated John Monaghan as the new Colonel for the Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP), as reported early today by Mass.gov. The MEP, an agency nestled within the Energy and Environmental Affairs, champions the charge to guard Massachusetts’ bountiful ecosystems and natural resources through enforcement, education, and outreach.
Colonel Christopher Mason has stepped down from his interim role leading the Massachusetts Environmental Police, a position he held since September 2024. According to a statement obtained by Mass.gov, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper expressed confidence in newly appointed Colonel John Monaghan, stating that his “extensive experience and leadership are exactly what we need at MEP.” Monaghan also shared his commitment to the role, emphasizing his intent to support the agency’s mission of environmental protection and public safety
Monaghan is no stranger to law enforcement or environmental stewardship. With over two and a half decades spent in the law enforcement field, Monaghan carries a diversified portfolio, most recently engaging in mental resilience coaching at the Boulder Crest Foundation’s Massachusetts division, where he helped first responders channel Post-Traumatic Stress into strengths through Post-Traumatic Growth, as per details shared by Mass.gov.
Monaghan previously held roles as a consultant with the Center for Policing Equity and as Director at All Aces Inc., where he worked on community engagement and co-response strategies. He holds a degree in Natural Resource Management from Sterling College and has also served as Chief of Police in New Hampshire. In a statement to Mass.gov, Monaghan said, “It has been an honor to close this chapter just as I began my career – serving in environmental protection.”
