Massachusetts Aide Arrested for Cocaine Trafficking in Major Drug Bust

BOSTON, Massachusetts — A former aide to Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey was arrested this week for cocaine trafficking, following a significant drug seizure involving 21 kilograms of cocaine.

LaMar Cook, 45, served as the deputy director of Healey’s Western Massachusetts office. He was taken into custody on Tuesday after a state trooper, acting undercover, delivered 8 kilograms of cocaine to him at the Springfield State Office Building, prosecutors reported.

During his arraignment on Wednesday, Cook pleaded not guilty and was ordered held without bail pending a court hearing, according to Boston.com. He faces additional charges of illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition.

The governor’s office swiftly terminated Cook’s employment after learning of his arrest. A spokesperson stated, “The conduct that occurred here is unacceptable and represents a major breach of the public trust. This criminal investigation is ongoing, and our administration will work with law enforcement to assist them in their work.”

Authorities indicate that the investigation began after two previous drug seizures, including 13 kilograms of suspected cocaine found in suspicious packages intercepted at Hotel UMass in Amherst earlier this month.

The Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni affirmed that evidence from the Amherst seizure was consistent with the drugs recovered in Springfield. Cook, who had previously worked as director of Hotel UMass, had accepted the delivery while awaiting the package.

Following his arrest, Cook was mentioned as a co-founder of the Back to School Brighter Initiative, offering free haircuts to children in public schools, and was a notable figure in the Springfield business community.

As the investigation continues, the severity of the charges highlights ongoing issues with drugs and public trust in government officials.