IN THE NEWS
Hampden County Sheriff’s Department conducts evictions with ‘compassion and humanity’
As covered on the front page of the Sunday New York Times, Sheriff Cocchi explains why he directs his civil process division staff to use compassion, empathy and problem solving abilities to help people being evicted from their homes.
Sheriff Nick Cocchi recognized by feds for work in fight against human trafficking
Just two years into his first term, Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi was honored by two federal agencies for his leadership in combating human trafficking in Western Massachusetts.
Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi and staff donate toys to 100 children in need
Just in time for Christmas, Sheriff Cocchi and his staff delivered presents to over 100 kids who either attend his Youth Leadership Academy summer camp or have an incarcerated parent.
Cocchi adds therapy dogs to the ways to assist people in rehabilitation
With the aim of decreasing tension and stress and uplifting the staff and inmates, Sheriff Cocchi started an Emotional Support Division of therapy dogs.
New Marine Patrol Unit launches in western Massachusetts
To make the Western Mass. Waterways safer for everybody, Sheriff Cocchi has launched a Marine Patrol Unit of 13 deputies with three boats, and it was created entirely outside of the department’s operating budget thanks to seized drug money.
Sheriff Tompkins, Sheriff Cocchi elected to lead Massachusetts Sheriff’s Association
The Massachusetts Sheriffs’ Association elected Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi as Vice President and President of the organization for a two-year term.
Music video highlights Hampden County Sheriff’s Department staff’s work during pandemic
Showcasing the talent of the department as well as its many efforts to help during the COVID-19 Pandemic, staff stepped up to provide vocals for a music video to the song “Rise Up” by Andra Day.
Sheriff Cocchi summer camp explores Connecticut River by boat
The Youth Leadership Academy, now in its fourth year, is a free camp operated by Cocchi’s office to give young people who live in economically challenged areas of Western Massachusetts a chance to experience a summer of fun, adventure, learning and mentorship.
Hampden County Sheriff’s Shuffle draws 300 participants, raises $20,000 for YWCA
For the first time since 2014, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department held its annual Sheriff’s Shuffle 5K run/walk for charity, raising over $20,000 to fight human tracking and help the victims left in its wake.
Yoga in Jail: Hampden County program offers release in pre-release center
Based on studies showing the benefits of bringing yoga and self-reflection/awareness to an inmate population, Sheriff Cocchi has implemented such programs to both the inmate and Section 35 client populations.
