MA Police Union Head Embezzled Money To See Mistress: Feds

UPDATE: Ex MA State Police Union Boss Convicted In Racketeering Case

WORCESTER, MA — The former president of the Massachusetts State Police Association and a Beacon Hill lobbyist were arrested Wednesday morning and face federal conspiracy, wire fraud and obstruction charges. U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling said former State Police Association President Dana Pullman and Beacon Hill lobbyist Anne Lynch defrauded at least two companies working with the state, accepted thousands of dollars in kickbacks and bribes, and "lined their pockets with association funds."

Both Pullman and Lynch were arrested Wednesday morning. Pullman was arrested in his Worcester home, according to the FBI. Pullman had been with the union for 30 years. Lynch was arrested in her home in Hull. Lynch’s lobbying firm represented the State Police Association in exchange for monthly retainer payments.

Between 2012 and 2018, the pair conspired to defraud both the State Police Association and the commonwealth, Lelling said. In 2014, a $22 million settlement resulted in Lynch's firm being overcompensated for work on the case to the tune of $350,000. In return, Lynch gave Pullman a kickback of $20,000, Lelling said.

Pullman's share of the money between the fraud and bribes totaled at least $75,000, officials said. He was also charged with embezzling funds from the union for personal use. Lelling said along with accepting bribes and kickbacks, Pullman used the state police debit card on purchases that included $9,000 in flowers, lavish meals, iTunes gift cards, and trips to Miami to meet his mistress.

"Pullman essentially took money from the pockets of fellow state police," Lelling said. Pullman was also accused of encouraging members of the union board to fill false expense reports.

Pulleman "strongly denies each and every one of the allegations in today's criminal complaint," his attorney said.

Both Pullman and Lynch were accused of trying to obstruct the federal investigation into the misuse of funds. Since Pullman is a representative for state police, Lelling reflected on the turbulent year for the institution. Pullman resigned in September amid the state police overtime investigation that led the the arrests of several troopers.

"I realize it has been a rough few years for the rank and file of the Massachusetts State Police," Lelling said, "This kind of corruption just adds to their burden."

Pullman took over as State Police Association President in 2012. He was a trooper prior to that. Lelling said the investigation is not over and more arrests could follow.

The charges of fraud and conspiracy each provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss — whichever is greater. The charge of obstruction of justice provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine