Massachusetts State Trooper relieved of duties after weekend arrest, officer pleads not guilty

A Massachusetts State Trooper has been relieved of his duties as he pleaded not guilty after a weekend arrest.

According to the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office, Michael Atton, 34, of Wrentham entered a plea of not guilty to one count of Assault and Battery on a Family or Household member at his Wrentham District Court arraignment today, following his arrest over the weekend by Wrentham Police.

Atton, who was represented by Attorney Daniel Moynihan at arraignment, had been free on $5,000 cash bail.

The Commonwealth moved to have Atton held without bail under the dangerous person statute. Judge Julieann Hernon heard that 58(a) motion this afternoon and did not find the defendant dangerous. He remains free on the posted bail; Judge Hernon ordered additional conditions of release to include that he stay away from and have no contact with the named victim, that he submit to mental health evaluation and engage in any aftercare, and take all medications as prescribed.

According to Dave Procopio of the Massachusetts State Police, upon being notified of his arrest, the Department immediately relieved him of duty pending an internal hearing to be held this week, and opened an internal investigation into the matter. The Trooper, per Department order, is unable to assume the duties and responsibilities of the State Police until further notice.

Atton is due back in Wrentham District Court July 29, 2021 for pre-trial conference.