BREAKING: Former Groton Police Officer Omar Connor has had his law enforcement certification revoked following serious allegations of sexual harassment involving students and educational staff. This decisive action was confirmed by the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission (POST) on November 20, 2023, marking a significant development in the case that saw Connor fired in 2023.
The POST Commission found “clear and convincing evidence” that Connor engaged in a “pattern of unprofessional conduct,” deeming him “not fit for duty” and a danger to the public. The ramifications of this decision extend beyond his immediate dismissal, as Connor’s actions as a school resource officer at Groton-Dunstable Regional High School have shattered the trust placed in him by the community.
In a statement released by the Groton Police Department, officials emphasized that Connor was expected to serve as a role model for students. “He violated that trust by using his position to take advantage of those who he had influence over,” they stated, expressing gratitude to the young women who reported his misconduct. This emphasizes the critical importance of accountability in law enforcement, especially within educational settings.
The POST Commission’s ruling follows a series of internal investigations that revealed Connor’s use of lewd language and inappropriate advances towards students, including one incident that occurred inside the school building. Despite having multiple opportunities to contest the allegations, Connor failed to appear at a scheduled hearing in September 2025, leading to a default ruling against him.
Attorney Amy Park, representing the POST Commission, argued during the hearing that Connor’s non-response and lack of communication warranted his decertification. “He has failed to defend this matter,” Park stated, underscoring the gravity of the allegations. Notably, Connor did not face criminal charges related to the allegations, but his decertification prevents him from serving as a police officer in Massachusetts. His name will also be added to the National Decertification Index, a vital resource for law enforcement agencies nationwide to verify an officer’s disciplinary history.
Connor, who had served over 12 years with the Groton Police and had previously been recognized as a mentor for students, expressed during earlier hearings his resignation to the outcome. “I know I’m not going to be getting my certification back,” he stated, maintaining his innocence while acknowledging the inevitability of the decision.
The Groton community is reeling from the fall of a former officer once praised for his commitment to youth mentorship. In a March 2022 social media post, the Groton Police Department lauded Connor as a role model, a stark contrast to the current situation that exposes grave misconduct.
As of now, Connor has 30 days to appeal the Commission’s decision in Superior Court, but the implications of his decertification resonate deeply within the Groton community. The situation serves as a poignant reminder of the vital responsibility law enforcement officers hold in safeguarding trust and integrity, particularly within schools.
This developing story highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and accountability in public service roles. Residents and stakeholders are urged to stay informed as this case unfolds, with potential implications for Connor’s future and the broader implications for law enforcement standards.
Stay tuned for updates on this urgent matter as more details emerge.
