Four members of the Massachusetts State Police Academy staff, including one supervisor, were relieved of duty and had their certifications suspended after being charged in connection with the death of a trainee in 2024. Sgt. Jennifer Penton, Trooper Edwin Rodriguez, Trooper David Montanez and Trooper Casey LaMonte were all charged on Monday with involuntary manslaughter and causing serious bodily injury to a person participating in a training program. Penton was also charged with perjury, related to statements given to the grand jury.
Investigation Findings
The charges stem from the death of Enrique Delgado-Garcia, 25, of Worcester, who died on September 13, 2024, a day after sustaining injuries during a boxing exercise at the Massachusetts State Police Academy in New Braintree. Attorney General Andrea Campbell and attorney David Meier announced the charges after a nine-month investigation.
According to the independent investigator, the boxing exercise was unauthorized, unapproved, and unsupervised. The four individuals charged did not fulfill their legal duty to protect the trainees, and committed “wanton and reckless” acts. Each individual owed a duty of care to Delgado-Garcia and his fellow trainees.
Delgado-Garcia was part of the 90th Recruit Training Troop and was set to graduate less than a month after the incident. Instead, he was administered the oath of office and pinned with his badge in a hospital ceremony. “Enrique should be alive today,” Campbell stated.
What’s Next?
The four individuals have been relieved of duty while the legal process unfolds. They are expected to be summoned to court. A duty status hearing will determine whether the troopers will be retained on full duty, placed on restricted duty, or suspended with or without pay. The outcome of the criminal charges could have significant implications for the Massachusetts State Police Academy’s training protocols.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges are the four individuals facing?
Troopers Edwin Rodriguez, David Montanez, and Casey LaMonte face charges of involuntary manslaughter and causing serious bodily injury. Sergeant Jennifer Penton faces those same charges, along with a charge of perjury.
When did Enrique Delgado-Garcia die?
Enrique Delgado-Garcia died on September 13, 2024, at a hospital, a day after being injured during a boxing exercise at the Massachusetts State Police Academy.
What happened to the four members of the State Police Academy staff?
Sgt. Jennifer Penton, Trooper Edwin Rodriguez, Trooper David Montanez and Trooper Casey LaMonte were relieved of duty and had their certifications suspended.
As this case progresses, what role will scrutiny of training practices play in ensuring the safety of future recruits?
