SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi was arrested for operating under the influence last month that caused damage to his department-issued vehicle.
On September 21st Cocchi reportedly told police that he drank a “couple of beers” while playing golf at the Springfield Country Club before driving to MGM Springfield. The vehicle was found parked in the valet area with its right front tire missing and damage to the wheel.
COURT DOCUMENTS: What led to the arrest of Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi Moments later, as Cocchi approached the valet area, which what the police report says, was unsteady on his feet, with bloodshot eyes, and slurred speech. Based on the officers’ observation, and review of video from the casino, Cocchi was arrested and charged for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of intoxicating liquor.
At his arraignment, Cocchi pleaded to sufficient facts and his case was continued without a finding for one year. His license is temporarily suspended for 45 days. The OUI charge will be dismissed at the end of the year upon successful completion of the term set by the court.
State Police believe he crashed his car before turning onto State Street in Springfield. In a news release sent to 22News from a spokesperson of the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department, Cocchi paid for the repair costs of the damaged vehicle. The invoice of $2,428.24 was paid this week by Cocchi which included a full set of tires for the Ford Explorer, even though only one tire was damaged in the incident.
“Since that Saturday night, I have tried to do everything to take responsibility for this incident. I apologized and took responsibility in court, to the media, and I took time to look my staff members in the eyes and tell them that I am sorry for my actions on that night. Paying the cost of any damage, including the full set of tires, is the right thing to do. No matter what mistakes I make, I was raised to accept responsibility, and that is my aim here,” Sheriff Cocchi said.
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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