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State Parks Whistleblower Says He Was Fired, But Had to 'Stop the Madness'

Exclusive: Former State Parks Employee Speaks Out

'I Had to Do What Was Right'

In an exclusive interview with the Boston Globe, a former Massachusetts state parks employee, who was fired in 2021, says he was retaliated against for speaking out about corruption and mismanagement within the agency.

The whistleblower, who has not been publicly identified, says he was fired after he raised concerns about a number of issues, including:

• Misuse of funds
• Lax oversight of contractors
• Environmental violations

The whistleblower says he was told by his superiors to “stop the madness” and “mind his own business.”

He says he refused to be silenced, and continued to raise concerns, which ultimately led to his firing.

'I Have No Regrets'

The whistleblower says he has no regrets about coming forward, even though it cost him his job.

“I had to do what was right,” he said. “I couldn't stand by and watch while the agency was being destroyed from within.”

The whistleblower's firing has sparked a wider investigation into corruption and mismanagement within the Massachusetts state parks system.

Investigation Underway

The Massachusetts Attorney General's Office is currently investigating the allegations raised by the whistleblower.

The investigation is ongoing, and no charges have been filed at this time.

Statement from State Parks Department

In a statement, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), which oversees state parks, said it is cooperating with the investigation.

The DCR said it is committed to “ensuring that all employees are treated fairly and that the agency operates with integrity.”

Importance of Whistleblowers

Whistleblowers play a vital role in exposing corruption and wrongdoing.

They often put their careers and reputations at risk to speak out, and they deserve our protection.

The case of the Massachusetts state parks whistleblower is a reminder that whistleblowers are essential to a healthy democracy.

Resources for Whistleblowers

If you are a whistleblower, there are resources available to help you.

The following organizations can provide support and assistance:

• The National Whistleblower Center
• The Government Accountability Project
• The Whistleblower Protection Program