Boston Police Sergeant Arraigned on Disturbing Charges Involving a Minor

A longtime member of the Boston Police Department is facing serious charges involving the alleged sexual abuse of a minor. According to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, 58-year-old Paul Downey of West Roxbury was arraigned Monday afternoon in Boston Municipal Court.

Downey, a sergeant who’s been with BPD since 1991, was charged with four counts of aggravated rape of a minor, two counts of sexual conduct with a child under 18, and two counts of electronic enticement of a child for sexual activity.

During the brief court appearance, Downey stood facing away from the room, and no details of the case were read aloud because a defense attorney was absent. A not guilty plea was entered on his behalf, and he’s currently being held without bail until a follow-up hearing is scheduled for Tuesday.

Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox responded to the arraignment with a statement, calling the charges “very troubling” and noting that Downey has been placed on administrative leave. Cox also expressed confidence in the ongoing investigation by the Massachusetts State Police and the Suffolk County DA’s Office.

As of now, no additional information has been made public.