Rick Tocchet pleads guilty in betting scandal

Yesterday, the former NHL All-Star and Phoenix Coyotes assistant coach, Rick Tocchet, pleaded guilty to third-degree charges of conspiracy and promoting gambling in connection to the sports betting ring accusations.

Rick Tocchet pleads guilty in betting scandal Rick Tocchet admitted during the scheduled hearing yesterday, that between 2002 and 2006 he was part of the illegal sports betting ring, with James Harney and James Ulmer.

The police investigation into the gambling ring began in 2005 when they found out that Harney, a former New Jersey State Trooper was involved in the illegal betting operation. Tocchet and others were targeting high rollers - high profile athletes, even Wayne Gretzky's wife has admitted of placing wagers with this gambling ring.

Kevin Marino, attorney for Rick Tocchet, admitted that the guilty plea was a way for Tocchet to avoid jail time, and be sentenced to probation. Sentencing was set or August 17th.

Phoenix Coyotes coach Wayne Gretzky has said he wants Tocchet back, however, and there was even talk about Tocchet replacing Barry Smith as an associate coach. Rick Tocchet has been on NHL-approved leave of absence since the beginning of the case, almost an year ago, and probation will allow him to return to being an assistant coach for the team, depending on the Gretzky and NHL decisions. The Coyotes issued the following statement: "The Phoenix Coyotes will await the completion of the National Hockey League's investigation and will support whatever decision the Commissioner may render regarding Mr. Tocchet's status."

05/26/2007