Francis Goode, Jr., a lieutenant in the Chelmsford Police Department, was indicted on March 16, 2024, for tampering with official records and intimidating a witness. The indictment follows an incident involving Michael Caprigno, a North Reading officer, who was arrested for operating under the influence. Goode allegedly instructed officers to dismiss more serious charges against Caprigno due to his law enforcement position. Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan emphasized accountability for all, underscoring that law enforcement should not evade legal responsibilities.
"Employment as a member of law enforcement does not include being allowed to escape responsibility for breaking the law as a professional courtesy," Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said in a statement.
The offenses which underlie today's indictments stand in direct contradiction to the very oath which police officers are sworn to uphold. We must ensure that everyone is held to accountability equally, regardless of their occupation.
According to prosecutors, the charges stem from an incident that began on March 16, 2024 when North Reading Michael Caprigno, 42, was pulled over in Chelmsford after he nearly struck a patrol officer head-on.
Goode is accused of subsequently instructing the arresting officer to write Caprigno a citation for a marked lanes violation, take no additional steps with the arrest, and not discuss the arrest with anyone else.
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