Four MSP Academy Trainers Charged in Recruit's Death

Investigators say the trainers failed to properly supervise a fatal boxing session.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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An independent investigator has filed charges against four Massachusetts State Police Academy trainers in connection with the 2024 death of recruit Enrique Delgado-Garcia. The trainers, including a supervisor, are accused of 'wanton and reckless' acts that led to Delgado-Garcia's severe injuries and death following a boxing exercise.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about the oversight and safety protocols at the MSP Academy, especially around high-risk physical training exercises. It also raises questions about the state's responsibility to protect recruits during the training process.

The details

According to the investigator, David Meier, the four trainers - Sergeant Jennifer Penton, Trooper Edwin Rodriguez, Trooper David Montanez, and Trooper Casey LaMonte - failed to properly supervise the boxing sessions that led to Delgado-Garcia's death. Meier said the trainers committed a series of 'wanton and reckless' acts, and that Delgado-Garcia was injured during training on September 11 and 12 before dying on September 13.

  • Delgado-Garcia was injured during training on September 11 and 12, 2024.
  • Delgado-Garcia died on September 13, 2024.

The players

Enrique Delgado-Garcia

A 25-year-old Massachusetts State Police recruit who died following a boxing exercise at the academy in 2024.

David Meier

An independent investigator appointed to examine the circumstances around Delgado-Garcia's death.

Sergeant Jennifer Penton

An MSP training supervisor who is one of the four trainers facing charges.

Trooper Edwin Rodriguez

One of the three other MSP instructors facing charges in connection with Delgado-Garcia's death.

Trooper David Montanez

One of the three other MSP instructors facing charges in connection with Delgado-Garcia's death.

Trooper Casey LaMonte

One of the three other MSP instructors facing charges in connection with 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 and to his fellow trainees. Each of them interacted with Delgado-Garcia and his fellow trainees on a daily basis and each of them committed a series of wanton and reckless acts or omissions resulting in Enrique Delgado-Garcia's death.”

— David Meier, Independent Investigator (boston25news.com)

What’s next

The four trainers will be summoned to court at a later date to face charges of involuntary manslaughter and causing serious bodily injury to a person participating in a training program involving physical exercise. Sergeant Penton will also face a perjury charge.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for rigorous safety protocols and proper supervision during high-risk training exercises at the Massachusetts State Police Academy. It also underscores the state's responsibility to protect recruits and ensure their wellbeing during the training process.