Four Massachusetts State Police Officials Indicted in Recruit's Death

Supervisor and instructors charged with involuntary manslaughter and causing serious bodily injury during training exercise

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A supervisor and three instructors with the Massachusetts State Police Academy's defensive tactics unit have been indicted in connection with the death of a 25-year-old recruit, Enrique Delgado-Garcia, following a boxing match during training. The officials are being charged with involuntary manslaughter and causing serious bodily injury to a person participating in a training program.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about the safety and oversight of police training programs, as well as the need for accountability when tragedies occur. The independent investigation found a series of 'wanton and reckless acts and omissions' by the officials that led to Delgado-Garcia's death, raising questions about the culture and practices within the Massachusetts State Police Academy.

The details

According to the investigation, Delgado-Garcia first sustained a concussion during 'unauthorized, unapproved and unsafe' sparring sessions at the academy. The next day, he suffered 'multiple blunt force injuries to the head and massive brain bleeding' after academy staff failed to stop a training boxing match that resulted in his death.

  • Enrique Delgado-Garcia, 25, died at a hospital on September 13, 2024, a day after becoming unresponsive during a defensive tactics exercise.
  • The independent investigation was launched by the Massachusetts Attorney General's office.

The players

Enrique Delgado-Garcia

A 25-year-old recruit with the Massachusetts State Police who died following a boxing match during training.

Sgt. Jennifer Penton

The supervisor of the Massachusetts State Police Academy's defensive tactics unit who has been indicted on charges of involuntary manslaughter, causing serious bodily injury, and perjury.

Troopers Edwin Rodriguez, David Montanez and Casey LaMonte

Instructors with the Massachusetts State Police Academy's defensive tactics unit who have been indicted on charges of involuntary manslaughter and causing serious bodily injury.

David Meier

The independent investigator appointed by the Massachusetts Attorney General to look into Delgado-Garcia's death.

Andrea Campbell

The Massachusetts Attorney General who ordered the independent investigation into Delgado-Garcia's death.

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What they’re saying

“Each of these individuals owed a duty of care to Enrique Delgado-Garcia. Each of them committed a series of wanton and reckless acts and omissions that resulted in Enrique Delgado-Garcia's death.”

— David Meier, Independent Investigator

“Regardless of their background, all cadets at the police academy must be safe and protected. Creating a safe environment is vital to ensuring that our public institutions reflect the communities they serve. The grieving Delgado-Garcia family deserves justice, and this tragedy must lead to meaningful reforms.”

— Iván Espinoza-Madrigal, Executive Director, Lawyers for Civil Rights

“The family is relieved there has been progress in the case from the beginning. Today is a big day. The family is relieved that they are starting to see light at the end of tunnel in terms of accountability here.”

— Mike Wilcox, Attorney for Delgado-Garcia Family

What’s next

A date for the arraignment of the indicted officials will be set in the future.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for strong oversight, safety protocols, and accountability within police training programs to protect recruits and ensure public trust in law enforcement. The independent investigation and indictments signal an important step towards justice for the Delgado-Garcia family and reforms to prevent future tragedies.