# Massachusetts AG Secures Guilty Plea in Methuen Police Hiring Fraud

The Massachusetts Attorney General's Office secured a guilty plea from former Methuen Police Chief Joseph Solomon for multiple violations of civil service laws, perjury, and procurement fraud related to unlawfully promoting unqualified officers to full-time positions. This enforcement action underscores the critical importance of integrity and compliance in public sector hiring and procurement processes, particularly within law enforcement agencies.

- This case highlights risks associated with circumventing civil service regulations in public hiring, which can lead to legal consequences and undermine public trust.
- Procurement and HR professionals in government agencies should reinforce adherence to civil service laws and transparent hiring practices to mitigate fraud risks.
- Organizations involved in public sector staffing and contracting may face increased scrutiny and should ensure compliance with applicable laws and ethical standards.
- This development signals a continued focus by state-level legal authorities on accountability in public procurement and personnel management, emphasizing the need for robust internal controls.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Public Safety
**Topics:** Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** September 19, 2026

### Government Entities
- Massachusetts Attorney General's Office (AGO)
- Essex County District Attorney's Office
- City of Methuen

### Key Quotes
> Massachusetts communities rely on their police chiefs to make the best decisions for the safety and security of residents. Former Chief Solomon broke that trust by misusing his authority to elevate unqualified officers, putting residents27 wellbeing at risk.
> — Andrea Joy Campbell, Attorney General

> My office will never tolerate criminal behavior from those entrusted to enforce the law. This plea ensures accountability and offers the citizens of Methuen an opportunity to have their faith in the system restored.
> — Paul F. Tucker, Essex County District Attorney

> We27re grateful to Attorney General Andrea Campbell for her partnership in insisting on jail time for Joseph Solomon. This was a widespread criminal conspiracy and today represents an important step toward accountability and justice for the citizens of Methuen.
> — D.J. Beauregard, Mayor of Methuen

### Sources
- [AG Campbell Secures Guilty Plea From Former Methuen Police Chief For Civil Service Law Violations And Perjury | Mass.gov](https://www.mass.gov/news/ag-campbell-secures-guilty-plea-from-former-methuen-police-chief-for-civil-service-law-violations-and-perjury) - MA