NEW YORK, NY — The New York State Police terminated a trooper on Feb. 19, 2026, after he pleaded guilty to federal charges of making false statements to federal investigators.
Michael O’Flaherty, an investigator assigned to Troop K, was fired following his guilty plea, according to a statement from the agency.
O’Flaherty was placed on administrative duties at the start of the investigation in fall 2022 and suspended following his arrest in November 2024.
The New York State Police cooperated with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and the Drug Enforcement Administration from the outset of the federal investigation.
The agency’s Professional Standards Bureau worked in coordination with federal authorities throughout the matter.
Superintendent Steven G. James said O’Flaherty’s actions were “a betrayal of the public trust and the oath he took as a member of the New York State Police.”
“Every member of our agency is entrusted with extraordinary responsibility,” James said.
“When someone abuses that responsibility, it undermines the confidence our communities place in us and compromises the work of the dedicated professionals who serve honorably every day.”
James said the agency will not tolerate conduct that violates the law, policies or ethical standards.
