Massachusetts' governor paid $31,439 to a former aide after arrest

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey's office paid $31,439 to former aide LaMar Cook under a contract buyout, then said the payment was made in error and is seeking to recover it while legal proceedings and an investigation continue.

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey's office issued a $31,439 payment to LaMar Cook under a buyout clause in his contract after he was arrested in October. Cook was removed from his role in the Springfield office and is facing cocaine trafficking charges. The governor's office later said the payment was made in error and has taken steps to recover the funds. Officials announced they plan to file a legal complaint against the former employee next week. Key facts: - The payment of $31,439 was made under a contractual buyout clause to LaMar Cook, a former top aide. - The governor's office stated the payment was erroneous and said it has acted to retrieve the funds. - LaMar Cook was arrested in October on cocaine trafficking charges, pleaded not guilty, and was dismissed from his position. - The Governor's Office said it will file a legal complaint seeking recovery of the payment next week and the criminal investigation is ongoing. Summary: The disputed payment and the administration's reversal have prompted public scrutiny and questions about payroll and oversight processes. The office is pursuing recovery of the funds and intends to file a legal complaint next week. The criminal case against the former aide remains active and proceedings are underway.