In the wake of a months-long criminal investigation, a New York State trooper has surrendered to face charges after an incident where he allegedly falsely reported being shot. Thomas Mascia, the trooper in question, his father, and mother, have turned themselves in to authorities today, in connection with the event that reportedly occurred last October on the Southern State Parkway on Long Island.
As per NBC New York, Mascia is accused of tampering with evidence, false reporting of a crime, and official misconduct. It was initially claimed by Mascia that he had been shot in the leg by a suspect while attempting to help a stranded driver, which led to Mascia being hospitalized and later released. The investigation later revealed discrepancies in Mascia’s account of the events, noting particularly that there was no video footage from the trooper’s body camera, which was not activated at the time of the alleged incident.
Further to the account reported by The New York Post, Thomas Mascia, his father, Thomas Mascia Sr., a former NYPD officer, and his mother, Dorothy Mascia, face charges including criminal possession of a firearm. According to officials, after conducting a search at the Mascia family home last year, authorities found a large sum of cash and weapons. Mascia’s legal representation, Jeffrey Lichtman claimed his client has been cooperative with the investigation. However, Lichtman could not be immediately reached for comment on Mascia’s surrender.
The family is expected to make a court appearance in Nassau County, where they will face the charges brought against them.
