Trooper’s Shocking ASSAULT on Own Son

Person in handcuffs with hands behind back.

A Massachusetts State Police trooper who swore an oath to protect and serve stands accused of punching his own minor son in the face, then coaching the child to lie about it—a shocking betrayal of both parental duty and public trust.

Story Highlights

State Trooper Michael Gagnon charged with domestic assault and aggravated assault on child under 14
Alleged assault occurred in August 2025 but wasn’t reported until child disclosed it to therapist in November
Gagnon allegedly coached his son to fabricate an alternative explanation for the assault
Massachusetts POST Commission suspended Gagnon’s law enforcement license and confiscated his weapons
Case highlights concerning power dynamics and delayed disclosure in family court proceedings

Trooper Arrested After Child’s Therapeutic Disclosure

Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Gagnon faces serious criminal charges after allegedly punching his minor son in the face during a custody visit in late August 2025. The Plympton Police Department arrested Gagnon on November 25, charging him with domestic assault and battery and aggravated assault on a child under age 14. The incident only came to light months later when the child disclosed the assault to a therapist during treatment sessions.

Three-Month Cover-Up Raises Serious Questions

The assault allegedly occurred while Gagnon’s son was visiting during ongoing divorce proceedings, with the child’s mother previously noting behavioral problems including “tantrums” whenever visitation time approached. Court documents reveal Gagnon allegedly instructed his son to provide false information about how any injuries occurred, demonstrating a calculated attempt to obstruct justice. The Department of Children and Families received the report on November 24, 2025, after the child’s therapist fulfilled mandatory reporting requirements.

Swift Administrative Action Follows Criminal Charges

The Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission moved quickly to suspend Gagnon’s law enforcement license on December 3, 2025, confiscating his firearms and police cruiser. Gagnon, who earned $102,000 annually as a state trooper, posted $1,000 bail and was released pending his January 12, 2026 court date. Massachusetts State Police issued a statement declaring the department “stands firmly against all forms of domestic violence” and will monitor court proceedings as part of their ongoing personnel investigation.

Case Exposes Vulnerability of Children in Custody Disputes

This disturbing case highlights how power imbalances can silence young victims, particularly when the perpetrator holds both parental authority and law enforcement credentials. The three-month delay between the assault and disclosure underscores the child’s initial reluctance to report his father’s violence. If convicted, Gagnon faces potential imprisonment, permanent termination from law enforcement, and likely modification of custody arrangements—consequences that pale compared to the lasting trauma inflicted on his young son.

The case serves as a stark reminder that badges and oaths don’t guarantee moral character, and that our most vulnerable citizens—our children—deserve protection even from those entrusted with upholding the law. The swift action by regulatory bodies demonstrates appropriate accountability measures, but cannot undo the betrayal of trust that occurred when a father allegedly turned violent against his own child.