This week, Mayor Janey releasedsome of the files documenting the investigation into former Boston Police Union President Patrick Rose, who has been charged with 33 counts of sexual abuse of minors. One aspect of the investigation stuck out to us.
While the BPD’s own investigation concluded “there was enough evidence to believe Rose likely committed the crime and to bring criminal charges”, Boston Police didn’t fire Rose because the police union threatened to file a grievance. (WBUR).
Why Does it Matter?
Patrick Rose is neither the first nor last criminal cop in Boston to avoid justice. In fact, criminal activity (and subsequent coverups) within BPD is so pervasive that the Boston Globe has a recurring segment detailing it called “Behind the Shield”.
So how do Boston's finest skirt justice? It's partly because police always protect their own ("The Blue Wall of Silence"), and because elected officials protect them.
Boston Police and Politics
The police are a powerful political force in Boston. With over 2,100 cops in Boston alone, they hold substantial voting power. But their real power is their money,which comes in from across Massachusetts.
Former Mayor of Boston Marty Walsh received $456,548 in the last decade alone, 26% of which came from outside the city.
Walsh isn’t the only political leader to receive money from BPD. In fact, Boston City Councilors have received $114,276 in the same time period. Councilor Michael Flaherty received almost $40,000, and mayoral candidate Annissa Essaibi George received $26,700.
How you can help
As we mentioned last week, there is a mayoral election this fall. There's also a number of Boston City council elections. Review the candidates' policies on police contributions and donate to the ones that reject police money.
Learn More:
Check out Black Boston's Mayoral Candidate policy guide.