Mass. Speaker Vows "Reform" Of Probation Dept.

BOSTON (AP) -- Massachusetts House Speaker Robert DeLeo is vowing to lead "reform efforts" for the Probation Department in the wake of a scathing report on the department's hiring practices.

DeLeo said he met with Gov. Deval Patrick on Tuesday and will file legislation to address the problems. He said the bill could include "a complete reorganization of the department's governance structure."

Patrick has argued the department should be combined with the parole board and brought under the control of the governor's office.

The report ordered by the Supreme Judicial Court alleged corrupt hiring and promotion practices at the department.

DeLeo also announced he's removing Rep. Thomas Petrolati of Ludlow -- who refused to cooperate with the investigation -- from a top House leadership post.