John Richards (Salem witch trials)

John Richards (died April 2, 1694)[1] was a colonial military officer, businessman, politician, and magistrate, best known for his participation in the Salem witch trials in 1692.

John Richards was born in England, and traveled with his parents in 1630 to North America as part of the first major wave of migration to the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

A resident of Dorchester for most of his life, he operated a mill, and frequently served as on the colony's general court (as its assembly was known).

He served as a judge under Dudley's brief administration, but was apparently opposed to Andros' unpopular rule, in which he played no part.

In 1692 Sir William Phips arrived in the colony bearing the new charter for the Province of Massachusetts Bay, and a commission as governor.