UPDATE: Former Groton Police Officer Omar Connor has been officially decertified by the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission (POST) following serious allegations of sexual harassment involving students and educational staff. This urgent decision was made public on November 20, 2023, and marks a significant downfall for Connor, who previously served as a school resource officer at Groton-Dunstable Regional High School.
The POST Commission’s ruling underscores a disturbing pattern of misconduct. Officials stated they found “clear and convincing evidence” that Connor is “not fit for duty as an officer and is dangerous to the public.” This announcement comes just months after Connor was fired in 2023 for using inappropriate language and making unwanted advances toward students, including a high school girl inside the school premises.
In a statement released by the Groton Police Department, they emphasized the betrayal of trust, stating, “He violated that trust by using his position to take advantage of those who he had influence over.” The department expressed gratitude to the young women who reported the incidents, highlighting the importance of accountability.
The POST Commission’s investigation revealed numerous complaints against Connor, illustrating a troubling history of unprofessional conduct. While he had opportunities to contest the allegations, Connor failed to appear at a critical hearing in September 2025, leading to a ruling that effectively waived his right to challenge the evidence against him. During the proceedings, attorney Amy Park asserted that Connor’s lack of communication demonstrated his unwillingness to defend himself, arguing for his decertification.
Connor’s previous reputation as a dedicated officer has drastically shifted. In March 2022, he was publicly praised as a role model for students. Now, he faces a future where he cannot serve as a police officer in Massachusetts. Although his decertification prevents him from working in the state, it does not legally stop him from seeking law enforcement positions elsewhere. However, his name will be added to the National Decertification Index, a crucial resource for agencies to vet an officer’s disciplinary history.
Connor’s case not only highlights the need for accountability in law enforcement but also raises questions about the systems in place to protect students and communities. With no criminal charges filed against him, the legal ramifications are limited, but the impact of his actions reverberates throughout the Groton community, prompting conversations about trust and safety in educational environments.
As the situation develops, Connor has 30 days to appeal the POST Commission’s decision in Superior Court. The outcome of this appeal will be closely monitored, as it holds implications for both Connor and the broader law enforcement community.
For updates on this unfolding story, follow Aaron Curtis on X @aselahcurtis or on Bluesky @aaronscurtis.bsky.social.
