Chelmsford lieutenant pleads not guilty to record tampering

Chelmsford Police Lieutenant Francis Goode Jr., 54, pleaded not guilty to multiple charges on Thursday. These charges are related to an incident that occurred last year involving the arrest of a sheriff's department employee. Goode appeared in Middlesex Superior Court in Woburn. He faces charges of tampering with a record, intimidation of a witness, and violation of public employee conduct standards. The incident began on March 16, 2024, when a Chelmsford officer pulled over Michael Caprigno, a Suffolk County jail sergeant, for suspected drunk driving. Prosecutors allege that Caprigno showed signs of intoxication and became hostile during his arrest. He allegedly identified himself as a Suffolk County sheriff’s employee and verbally abused the arresting officers. After Caprigno was taken to the station, Goode reportedly ordered that he be released and that the arrest records be altered. Assistant District Attorney Mary O'Neill stated that Goode made changes to the records himself to hide the arrest. Following the incident, Chelmsford Police Chief Colin Spence was informed in December and placed Goode on administrative leave on December 3. An outside firm was hired to investigate. Goode was released on personal recognizance but is not allowed to contact Caprigno or the officers involved. His attorney claims there is disagreement about what happened and emphasizes Goode's long service and commendations in the police force. Caprigno has also been indicted on charges related to being under the influence of alcohol. Goode’s next hearing is set for April 10, and the story is still developing.