Suffolk Sheriff Indicted for Cannabis Stock Extortion

Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins was arrested in Florida after being indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of extortion for allegedly abusing his position to pressure a Boston-based cannabis company into selling him $50,000 of pre-IPO stock. Authorities say Tompkins, after benefiting from an initial increase in the stock's value, demanded a full refund when the value dropped, despite having already profited. Prosecutors allege the company complied out of fear that Tompkins could jeopardize their business partnership and dispensary licensing. The indictment has prompted widespread criticism and renewed calls for higher ethical standards among public officials. If convicted, Tompkins faces up to 20 years in prison. Officials have underscored their commitment to addressing public corruption in Suffolk County.