Massachusetts Governor's Deputy Director Arrested After 8 Kilograms Cocaine Seized at State Office

Lamar (LaMar) Cook, 45, a deputy director in Gov. Maura Healey’s Western Massachusetts office, was arrested after investigators say they intercepted a controlled delivery of nearly 8 kilograms of cocaine to the Springfield State Office Building where he worked; authorities executed a search of his office and arrested him during a traffic stop. He has been charged with trafficking 200 grams or more of cocaine, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and driving without a license; he pleaded not guilty, was ordered held pending a dangerousness hearing, and bail was set at $25,000 subject to that hearing. Prosecutors say the probe — led by Massachusetts State Police CINRET West with help from Homeland Security Investigations and other agencies — stems from two prior seizures, including about 13 kilograms found Oct. 10 at Hotel UMass, bringing the total seized to roughly 21 kilograms. Cook, who had served in the governor’s western office since 2023 and previously worked as a hotel director, was terminated effective immediately; Healey’s office said he underwent a complete background check and pledged to cooperate with law enforcement. Community members and local outlets noted Cook’s prior community work (including the “Back to School Brighter” initiative and college tours), and his attorney has said he looks forward to clearing his name as the criminal investigation continues.