Massachusetts Official Fired Following Drug Trafficking Arrest
Lamar Cook, an employee of Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, has reportedly been dismissed after his arrest linked to a drug trafficking probe associated with the statehouse.
Cook, who held the position of deputy manager at Healey’s Western Massachusetts office, was taken into custody on Tuesday. Reports indicate that he faces charges including trafficking over 200 grams of cocaine, unlawful firearm possession, and unlawful possession of ammunition related to a traffic stop, as stated by Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gyurni and a representative from the governor’s office.
A spokesperson for Governor Healey informed Boston 25 News, “The Governor’s Office has been notified of the arrest of employee Lamar Cook. This behavior is completely unacceptable and represents a significant breach of public trust.” They further mentioned, “Mr. Cook has been let go effective immediately. This criminal investigation is ongoing, and my administration will cooperate with law enforcement as needed.”
Cook’s arrest appears to have occurred shortly after investigators searched his former office located in the Springfield statehouse on Monday. This follow-up was part of a larger operation where around 17 pounds of cocaine were seized during a controlled delivery at the same site the prior day.
“The controlled delivery occurred at 436 Dwight Street in the Springfield statehouse, where the suspect worked,” Gyurni’s office elaborated. They also noted that the search warrant executed on Monday evening targeted Cook’s former office within the office building.
Additionally, Cook’s charges are linked to two earlier drug seizures at the UMass Hotel in Amherst, which took place on October 10, when authorities found approximately 28 pounds of cocaine during a search of a suspicious package. “Evidence gathered during that operation matched narcotics discovered in a recent controlled delivery in Springfield,” the Hampden District Attorney’s Office reported.
On Wednesday, Cook was arraigned in Springfield District Court and entered a not guilty plea. The judge then ordered him to remain in custody until his next court appearance slated for Friday.
