Gov: OT scandal not a factor in Bennett’s exit
Turco sworn in as successor
Gov. Charlie Baker denied that the state police overtime scandal played a role in Daniel Bennett’s abrupt departure from his position as secretary of public safety.
“I think it’s really important for people to remember that it was under Secretary Bennett’s leadership that the investigation that ultimately unraveled the incredible circumstances and allegations of fraud was led by him and by his office,” Baker told reporters yesterday during a press conference.
Bennett, who was appointed in January 2015, didn’t quite complete his tenure, which included the Troopergate scandal — in which five state troopers have already pleaded guilty to overtime fraud and about 40 others were referred to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Attorney General for possible criminal prosecution.
Bennett said he is now considering “a number of opportunities in the private sector,” for his next career move.
Baker ceremoniously swore in Thomas Turco yesterday as the new secretary of the executive office of public safety and security. Turco was officially sworn in Wednesday, Baker said.
Turco donated $500 to the governor’s campaign in 2014, according to data from the Office of Campaign and Political Finance.
“I am incredibly humbled and grateful for this opportunity Gov. Baker and Lt Gov. (Karyn) Polito provided me,” Turco said. “I look forward to working with legislators, members of the judiciary, local law enforcement, agency heads and members of this administration to keep Massachusetts a safe place to live, work and raise a family.”
Acting Commissioner Carol A. Mici, who moved up from assistant deputy Commissioner, has taken over Turco’s previous role as the commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Correction.
“He’s a natural fit for this new post, especially since he partnered with Dan on some of the toughest and most important projects we’ve worked on within the secretariat,” Baker said.
Baker touted Bennett’s leadership, calling him a “driving force” in some of their most “notable accomplishments,” pointing to the turnaround at Bridgewater State Hospital, law enforcement efforts to combat the opioid crisis and reforms within the state police.
“Dan has helped us tackle some of the most difficult challenges that we’ve faced,” Baker said. “I want to thank Dan for his public service. The Lt. Gov. and I have been gratified by the opportunity we’ve had to work with him.”
Bennett spoke of the Bridgewater State Hospital project as well, in which the state partnered with Correct Care Solutions in 2017 to improve the quality of care for people with serious mental illness.
“There were some great things done in public safety, and the most important to me was Bridgewater,” Bennett said. “The people at the state hospital have a different life now.”