NYSP: Former trooper, parents charged in connection with trooper's gunshot wound on Southern State Parkway
Former trooper Thomas Mascia claimed he was shot while on the Southern State Parkway in October.
A former New York State Police trooper wounded by a gunshot on the Southern State Parkway has turned himself in following a monthslong investigation, police say.
New York State Police say Thomas Mascia and his parents, Thomas and Dorothy, turned themselves in this morning.
EXTENDED VIDEO - DA DONNELLY AND STATE POLICE ANNOUNCE THE CHARGES:
News 12 learned that Mascia is facing several charges, including tampering with physical evidence, falsifying reporting a crime, and official misconduct, while his parents are facing charges of criminal possession of a firearm.
Mascia claimed he was shot while on the Southern State Parkway in October. In an update in November, New York State Police said, “We believe the way it was reported is not the way it happened.”
Mascia was suspended without pay, and two investigations were simultaneously being conducted: A criminal one and an internal one, state police said.
Mascia had his duty weapon, shield and ID taken away from him after being suspended.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven James says he accepted Thomas Mascia resignation effective Jan. 24.
The New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association released a statement saying:
“We are saddened and sickened by this case. Those who proudly wear and do justice to the uniform do so knowing that on any given day we may find ourselves in harm’s way as part of our duty to protect the safety of all New Yorkers. The actions of one individual must not be allowed to cast a negative light on that commitment and detract from the important, positive work Troopers do every day across the state. Our focus remains on serving New Yorkers. We’ll leave it to the court to ensure justice is served in this case.”
