A New York state trooper who reported being shot and wounded by an unknown gunman on the Southern State Parkway on Long Island last year is facing criminal charges.
Why It Matters
The hoax prompted authorities to launch a manhunt that lasted days, which led to a significant diversion of resources.
What To Know
Thomas Mascia and his parents surrendered themselves early Monday morning at the state police barracks in East Farmingdale.
Mascia is facing charges of official misconduct, tampering with evidence, and falsifying documents, according to authorities. His parents, Dorothy and Thomas, have each been charged with criminal possession of a firearm.
Jeffrey Lichtman, the family's attorney, confirmed their surrender to the Associated Press, but declined to comment further on the case.
Thomas Mascia Sr. is believed to be a former NYPD officer who was fired in 1993 after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine.
Trooper Reported Being Shot
Mascia, 27, joined the state police force in 2019 and was suspended without pay in November after a criminal investigation was launched.
Investigators executed a search warrant at Mascia's home, seizing large amounts of cash and weapons. His service items, including his badge and firearm, were also confiscated.
He had reported being shot in the leg on October 30 by a driver of a black sedan parked on the shoulder of the Southern State Parkway, about a mile from his home.
According to Mascia, the driver fled toward New York City in a vehicle with temporary New Jersey plates, prompting a multi-day manhunt.
Police later revealed there was no video footage of the incident as Mascia's body camera had not been activated at the time.
The state trooper was taken to the hospital to treat his gun wound.
What People Are Saying
Troop L Commander Major Stephen J. Udice said during a news conference on November 6: "Based on our investigation so far, we have reason to believe that the incident did not occur the way it was reported."
Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly's office said in a statement provided to the Daily Voice in November: "My office, in partnership with the New York State Police, is actively investigating certain inconsistencies identified in the reporting of a shooting incident involving New York State Trooper Thomas Mascia last week on the Southern State Parkway. The investigation remains ongoing at this time, and we refrain from further comment until it is completed."
What Happens Next
Mascia and his parents are scheduled to be arraigned later in Hempstead, according to Trooper Brittany Burton, a spokesperson for the state police.
Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly is expected to hold a press conference alongside state police at her office in Mineola later today.
This article includes reporting from the Associated Press.
Is This Article Trustworthy?
Is This Article Trustworthy?
Newsweek is committed to journalism that is factual and fair
We value your input and encourage you to rate this article.
Newsweek is committed to journalism that is factual and fair
We value your input and encourage you to rate this article.
