Coppinger defends spending amid scrutiny

BOSTON — Essex County Sheriff Kevin Coppinger is pushing back on allegations by Beacon Hill’s legislative leaders that overspending is widespread in sheriffs’ offices, saying state mandates are driving up his operating costs.

Coppinger, a six-term Democrat, said his office is “fiscally prudent and responsible” with its finances and “continues to produce positive outcomes and successes which increases public safety in our communities.”