Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins has resigned from his position as Chair of the Roxbury Community College Board of Trustees, effective August 12, 2025. In a formal letter to Governor Maura Healey, Tompkins expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, while confirming his decision to step down from the role he has held for years.
The resignation comes shortly after Tompkins’s arrest in Florida and indictment by a federal grand jury on two counts of extortion under color of official right. His departure was welcomed by Governor Healey, who described it as the right decision and announced that Vice-Chair Israul Marrero would immediately assume the role of Interim Chair.
Serious Allegations and Legal Stakes
Federal prosecutors allege that Tompkins exploited his official position to demand $50,000 worth of pre-IPO stock from a Boston cannabis company executive, in exchange for using his influence to secure favorable licensing and business partnerships. The company had reportedly collaborated with the Suffolk County sheriff’s office on vocational training programs for recently released individuals, which prosecutors say gave Tompkins significant leverage.
According to court filings, when the stock value dropped, Tompkins allegedly demanded repayment of his investment. FBI officials characterized the conduct as a blatant abuse of public office for personal financial gain. If convicted, Tompkins faces up to 20 years in federal prison…