Ex-Trooper Pleads Guilty in CDL Bribery Scandal

Former Massachusetts State Police trooper Perry Mendes pleaded guilty to conspiracy and falsification charges in a CDL bribery scheme. Mendes, along with former trooper Calvin Butner and civilian Eric Mathison, admitted to granting passing scores to at least 17 CDL applicants between 2019 and 2023, often in exchange for gifts or bribes like bottled beverages. Code words such as 'golden handshake' were used to identify favored applicants, some of whom did not take required tests. The alleged ringleader, ex-Sgt. Gary Cederquist, is currently on trial, and several others have pleaded guilty or face charges. The scandal has resulted in the suspension and retirement of certain officers and exposed broader corruption within the CDL licensing process. Mendes is scheduled for sentencing on July 15, 2025.