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
[4]. He was expected to travel from his Arizona home to answer charges of promoting gambling, money laundering and conspiracy in New Jersey.
[5] "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.
[6]
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.
[7]
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.
[8]
On
December 1,
2006, James Ulmer of
Swedesboro, New Jersey pleaded guilty to conspiracy and promoting gambling and agreed to cooperate with authorities.
[9]
On
May 25,
2007, Tocchet plead guilty to conspiracy and promoting gambling. New Jersey Attorney General Anne Milgram announced on
August 17 that Tocchet has been sentenced to two years probation in exchange for his plea. The NHL issued a statement from
Gary Bettman, but his spokesman would not answer questions, including if Tocchet has a future in hockey.
[10]
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.
During a press conference on
February 6,
2008, it was announced that Tocchet would be reinstated, and would serve as assistant coach starting on February 7, 2008, exactly two years after taking a leave of absence.
[11]
