That means the retired Philadelphia Flyer is unlikely to serve any time for his crimes, said Mark Eliades, the deputy attorney general who prosecuted the case.......
On February 6, 2006, Tocchet was served with a criminal complaint, accused of financing a nationwide sports gambling ring based in New Jersey in which several current NHL players wagered. He was expected to travel from his Arizona home to answer charges of promoting gambling, money laundering and conspiracy in New Jersey. "It's not a hockey-related issue, it's a football thing. And at this time I can't comment any further," Tocchet told The Arizona Republic after the Coyotes practiced Tuesday, February 7, 2006.
On May 8, 2006, attorneys for Tocchet and Gretzky's wife Janet Jones filed notices in New Jersey that they intend to sue the state for $50 million each for defamation. Both Tocchet and Jones claim each have lost business opportunities in the wake of the state's investigation which have sullied their reputations.
On August 3, 2006, former New Jersey state trooper James Harney pleaded guilty to conspiracy, promoting gambling and official misconduct, and promised to help authorities with their case against Tocchet and others. Harney said that he and Tocchet were 50-50 partners in the betting ring.
On December 1, 2006, James Ulmer, 41, of Swedesboro, New Jersey pleaded guilty to conspiracy and promoting gambling and agreed to cooperate with authorities.
On May 25, 2007, Tocchet pleaded guilty to conspiracy and promoting gambling.
During the week of July 8, 2007, Tocchet played in the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. He survived the first day, but never returned for Day 2. He played even as he awaited sentencing after pleading guilty in May to running a sports gambling ring.
Rick Tocchet
