UPDATE: Former Groton Police Officer Omar Connor has been officially decertified by the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission (POST) after serious allegations of sexual harassment involving high school and college students. This decision, confirmed on November 20, 2023, follows Connor’s dismissal from the Groton Police Department in 2023 due to unprofessional conduct that has been deemed a danger to the public.
The POST Commission’s ruling underscores the gravity of Connor’s actions, stating he engaged in “a pattern of unprofessional conduct that may escalate.” This alarming finding raises critical questions about trust and safety in educational environments, particularly as Connor served as a school resource officer at Groton-Dunstable Regional High School.
In a statement released by the Groton Police Department, officials emphasized the betrayal of trust that Connor’s actions represent. “He violated that trust by using his position to take advantage of those who he had influence over,” the police department asserted, commending the two young women who bravely reported his misconduct.
The allegations against Connor included using lewd language and making sexual advances towards students and educational staff. Following internal investigations, the Groton Police Department determined that Connor’s behavior was intolerable, leading to his termination. Despite being allowed to contest the allegations, Connor failed to appear at a crucial hearing, leading to a default ruling that affirmed the evidence against him.
“The allegations of the order to show cause should be deemed true,” stated attorney Amy Park during the hearing, arguing for Connor’s decertification. “He has failed to defend this matter.”
During a pretrial conference in June, Connor expressed resignation to the outcome, stating, “I know I’m not going to be getting my certification back.” Although he maintained his innocence, he acknowledged it was futile to fight the decision.
While no criminal charges have been filed against Connor, his decertification bars him from serving as a police officer in Massachusetts. Furthermore, his name will be added to the National Decertification Index, which serves as a resource for law enforcement agencies nationwide to check an officer’s disciplinary history.
Connor has 30 days to appeal the Commission’s decision in Superior Court, but the implications of this ruling are already being felt within the community. His swift fall from grace is notable; just two years ago, he was celebrated by the Groton Police Department as a mentor and role model for students.
The Groton Police Department’s Twitter account had previously praised “Officer O” for shaping the next generation of police officers, highlighting the stark contrast between his former reputation and the current situation.
As this story develops, the community is left grappling with the need for accountability and the importance of safeguarding students from those in positions of power. The POST Commission’s decision serves as a critical reminder of the responsibilities that come with public trust.
Stay updated as we follow this urgent story and its impact on the Groton community and beyond.
