A police officer from Auburn has been apprehended at his station and now faces charges associated with the solicitation of sex with a minor, following an online sting operation conducted in Berkshire County. Dominick Boschetto, who has served as an Auburn police officer for the past two years, is charged with engaging in sexual conduct with a minor under the age of 18 in exchange for payment, as well as enticing a child under the age of 16, as per court documents.
The arrest was carried out on Monday by officers from the Massachusetts State Police. The Auburn Police Department was informed of the warrant for Boschetto’s arrest earlier that day. Subsequently, he was placed on administrative leave in accordance with departmental policy, and an internal investigation commenced alongside the ongoing criminal investigation.
Auburn Police Chief Todd Lemon described the allegations against Boschetto as “reprehensible and deeply offensive,” emphasizing that the charges are unrelated to any actions undertaken while on duty. He assured the public of the department’s commitment to maintaining trust, stating that the conduct in question does not represent the dedication of the hard-working personnel within the department.
The Bottom Line
The arrest of Dominick Boschetto could potentially impact community trust in the Auburn Police Department, highlighting the importance of maintaining ethical standards among law enforcement officers. The swift administrative leave and dual investigations signify the department’s commitment to transparency and accountability. However, the incident may still leave a lasting impression on public perception.
For the citizens of Auburn, this development underscores the critical nature of trust between the public and law enforcement. While the department takes measures to address individual misconduct, ensuring continued community engagement and reassurance will be pivotal in rebuilding and preserving public confidence. This incident serves as a reminder of the expectations placed on law enforcement to uphold integrity and the consequences of failing to meet those standards.