Crime State Police trooper charged with kidnapping, domestic violence Joseph Ward allegedly shoved his then-girlfriend to the floor, charged at her with fists full of kitchen knives, and refused to let her leave their apartment. A Massachusetts State Police trooper casts a shadow on a backdrop during a press conference. Jessica Rinaldi / The Boston Globe, FileA Massachusetts State Police trooper has been relieved of duty after he was charged with kidnapping and assaulting his then-girlfriend. Advertisement:The woman was scheduled to work a midnight shift with the Barnstable Police Department, but Ward allegedly demanded she call in sick. A State Police spokesperson cited the agency’s zero-tolerance policy against domestic violence and said it is fully cooperating with the investigation.