22News explains where and how the incident started that led to the arrest of Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi.
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi was arrested for operating under the influence on Saturday night.
The sheriff was in a department-issued vehicle which was damaged during the incident. According to court documents, at around 7:09 p.m., the Gaming Enforcement Unit at MGM Springfield was investigating a vehicle parked in the valet area with its right front tire missing and damage to the wheel. The vehicle, a white Ford Explorer with a blue police license plate, was unoccupied and left running.
Officers found property from the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office and a wallet containing the identification of Nicholas Cocchi among other things inside the unlocked vehicle. During the investigation, at around 7:22 p.m. Cocchi approached the valet area, which what the police report says, was unsteady on his feet, with bloodshot eyes, and slurred speech. He told officers that he popped a tire coming around a corner.
Cocchi reportedly told police that he drank a “couple of beers” while playing golf at the Springfield Country Club. State Police believe he crashed his car before turning onto State Street in Springfield. Video from the casino confirmed that Cocchi did not consume any alcohol at MGM Springfield.
Based on the officers’ observation, and review of video from the casino, Cocchi was placed under arrest for allegedly operating a motor vehicle under the influence of intoxicating liquor.
Hampden County Sheriff’s Office Spokesman Rob Rizzuto confirmed to 22News that Sheriff Cocchi was released on his own recognizance following the incident.
At his arraignment Monday, Cocchi pleaded to sufficient facts and his case was continued without a finding for one year. His license will also be temporarily suspended for 45 days.
Sheriff Cocchi was first elected as sheriff in 2016 and was re-elected to a second six-year term in 2022. He is a former correctional officer with the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office.
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