A senior elected official from a major East Coast county has come under federal investigation following allegations related to a business agreement involving a Boston-based cannabis company.

The Sheriff of Suffolk County, Massachusetts — a position responsible for overseeing more than 1,000 employees — is currently facing legal proceedings connected to a potential conflict of interest.

According to federal documents, the sheriff’s office partnered with a cannabis company in an initiative aimed at supporting social equity by helping formerly incarcerated individuals gain employment. As part of this collaboration, a letter of support was issued to assist the company in obtaining a state license to operate.

However, authorities now allege that following this endorsement, there may have been efforts to secure a financial interest in the business, raising concerns about possible ethical violations.

The investigation is ongoing, and the official will have the opportunity to respond to the charges in court, in accordance with legal due process.

In a public statement, the U.S. Attorney emphasized the importance of integrity among public officials and reiterated a continued commitment to investigating matters involving potential misuse of public office.