Driver Sentenced In Death Of Massachusetts State Trooper Thomas Devlin

LOWELL, MA — The driver who police say hit a Massachusetts State Trooper during a traffic stop in a crash that ultimately led to his death was sentenced Monday.

Trooper Thomas Devlin, of Wilmington, died on Sept. 3, 2020, due to injuries he sustained after being hit by a driver during a traffic stop on Route 3 in Billerica in 2018.

A jury found the driver, Kevin Francis, of Haverhill, guilty of negligent operation of a motor vehicle. On Monday, Francis was sentenced to 18 months in jail, a 60-day loss of license, a $200 fine, a $250 head-injury treatment surcharge and he must complete a highway safety program.

"We hope the conviction and sentencing of the driver who struck Trooper Devlin -- as he did his duty to protect others -- brings Tom's family whatever comfort they may find," State Police Superintendent Col. Christopher Mason wrote in a statement.

Devlin was hit by a driver while conducting a routine traffic stop on Route 3 in Billerica, on July 26, 2018. The 58-year-old underwent six major surgeries for two years before he returned home to spend his final days with loved ones: his four children and his wife Nancy.

"Trooper Devlin's legacy is one of being a beacon of strength and love for his family, as a dependable and highly-respected colleague and a mentor to younger Troopers, and as a reminder of the dangers police officers face every day," Mason's statement read. "This case underscores the critical importance of the Move Over Law, and should remind drivers of the need to give space to first responders, tow drivers, highway workers, and others who are called to do important jobs on our roads."

Francis' defense attorney claims jail time is too harsh of a punishment, citing his client's clean record. "That is the bias, that is the prejudice, and that is what has permeated this case," attorney Michael Bowser said of Francis. "The treatment that he is receiving because it is a state trooper."

Officials say Devlin had a 35-year career with the Massachusetts State Police. "The man that left our home on July 26 of 2018 died that day," Devlin's wife Nancy said in court. "As painful as it was to say that, he died that day.

Devlin began his career at the Concord barracks in 1985, state police said.