Massachusetts governor aide charged with drug trafficking of cocaine

Massachusetts Democratic Gov. Maura Healey's aide LaMar Cook was arrested and charged in an alleged drug trafficking scheme, after investigators intercepted cocaine that was allegedly supposed to be delivered to a building Cook worked in.

Cook, who was the deputy director of Healey’s Western Massachusetts office, pleaded not guilty on Wednesday and has been ordered to be held without bail, according to Fox News. The 45-year-old has also been charged with illegally owning a firearm and ammunition. 

A spokesperson for Healey's office told Boston.com that the governor fired Cook immediately after hearing of his arrest.

"The conduct that occurred here is unacceptable and represents a major breach of the public trust," the spokesperson said. "This criminal investigation is ongoing, and our administration will work with law enforcement to assist them in their work."

Authorities reportedly seized a total of 21 kilograms of cocaine in several incidents. The authorities seized two packages with cocaine on Oct. 10 that amounted to 13 kilograms of cocaine, and Saturday's interception contained eight kilograms.

"Evidence collected during that operation was consistent with the narcotics recovered during the most recent controlled delivery in Springfield," the district attorneys office said. "The investigation into the UMass seizure remains ongoing and may result in additional charges related to the prior shipments in Hampshire County." 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.