Boston Police Face Sanctions Over Missing Records in Fatal Chase Case

BOSTON, MA — The Boston Police Department (BPD) is facing potential sanctions as it fails to comply with a court order to release crucial records linked to an officer involved in a deadly high-speed chase. The chase resulted in the deaths of three teenagers driving a suspected stolen vehicle in January 2024.

Suffolk Superior Court Judge Katie Rayburn set a deadline of June 4 for the BPD to provide records related to Officer Triston Champagnie’s conduct. The judge warned last week that the department could face penalties if it continues to withhold information.

Attorney Zachary Cloud, who represents a Boston man indicted on firearms charges related to a separate incident involving Champagnie, has been pursuing these records since August 2024. Cloud has argued for the dismissal of his client’s case, citing the ongoing violations of the court’s order.

Rayburn denied that dismissal request, stating there was no evidence of egregious misconduct by police. However, she indicated that if the BPD does not comply, it could result in daily fines or the exclusion of evidence.

“We are eager for all the facts to be revealed regarding the internal affairs investigation,” Cloud said, highlighting the implications for his client’s case.

The BPD was instructed on December 3, 2024, to produce unredacted materials related to Champagnie’s previous complaints and investigations, including disciplinary actions. The department missed multiple deadlines to submit the requested documents.

Champagnie was involved in the January chase that led to the tragic deaths of three teens. Prosecutors have not filed criminal charges against him or his partner, Officer Matthew Farley, who were allegedly aware that they should terminate the pursuit.

Concerns over Champagnie’s actions have intensified, particularly after details emerged of his prior conduct during a traffic stop where a loaded firearm was discovered in a vehicle he stopped. Additionally, he was under investigation for alleged misconduct during the pursuit that led to the teenagers’ deaths.

“It’s particularly troubling that this all occurred without accountability,” Cloud criticized. “If the BPD handled Champagnie’s previous misconduct like they would any other officer, these tragic outcomes might have been prevented.”