Hampden County Sheriff's Office

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Hampden County Sheriff's Office

The Hampden County Correctional Center has a deserved national reputation for its innovation in facility and community programs.

The Hampden County Sheriff’s Office is dedicated to rehabilitation, public safety, and community service—providing justice-involved individuals with education, treatment, and support while building stronger, safer communities across Western Massachusetts. The Hampden County Correctional Center is considered a model of safe, secure, orderly, lawful, humane, and productive corrections, where inmates

are challenged to pick up the tools and directions to build a law-abiding life in an atmosphere free from violence. The Hampden County, Massachusetts Sheriff's Department operates the Hampden County Correctional Center, which supervises offenders in various levels of security. In Massachusetts, county correctional facilities incarcerate both pre-trial detainees and sentenced individuals with sentences of two and a half years or less.

06/07/2026

🚶‍♂️💙 Today, Sheriff Nick Cocchi and members of the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office were proud to participate in the Breakthrough T1D Walk at Six Flags New England, joining hundreds of individuals, families, advocates, and supporters in the fight against Type 1 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that affects both children and adults and requires around-the-clock management. Every step taken today helped raise awareness, support groundbreaking research, and move us closer to better treatments—and ultimately a cure.

We were honored to stand alongside members of our community who live with T1D every day, as well as the loved ones who support them. Events like this remind us of the power of coming together for a common cause and making a difference in the lives of others.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who walked, volunteered, donated, and supported this important event helping us surpass our financial goal! Together, we’re helping create a future with fewer burdens, more breakthroughs, and hope for a cure. 💙

06/07/2026

🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ 𝐒𝐀𝐕𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄: 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐟’𝐬 𝐒𝐡𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐕𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 💜

The Hampden County Sheriff’s Office is proud to once again partner with the YWCA of Western Massachusetts for the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗳𝗳’𝘀 𝗦𝗵𝘂𝗳𝗳𝗹𝗲, an annual event that raises awareness and support for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence.

Mark your calendar for 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗢𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟰, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲, and join us at 𝗔𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝘆𝗼𝗸𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝟱𝗞 𝗿𝘂𝗻 𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝟭.𝟱-𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗸. The event begins at 10:30 a.m., with check-in and walk-up registration opening at 9 a.m. inside the adjacent Elks Lodge.
The Sheriff’s Shuffle is a 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆-𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 featuring food, refreshments, live entertainment, awards, raffles, service animals, and more. Overflow parking and shuttle service will also be available.

Every step taken helps support the YWCA of Western Massachusetts and its mission to provide critical services, advocacy, and resources for victims and survivors of domestic violence.

“This event brings our community together for an important cause,” Sheriff Nick Cocchi said. “Whether you run, walk, volunteer, sponsor, or simply help spread the word, your support makes a difference in the lives of people who need help, hope, and a path forward. We encourage everyone to join us as we stand together against domestic violence.”

Registration and additional information are available at runsignup.com/Race/MA/Holyoke/SheriffsShuffle5kRunWalk.

We hope you'll save the date and join us for a morning of community, compassion, and support.

06/04/2026

𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐔𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐒𝐏𝐂𝐀 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐊-𝟗 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐬! 🐾

The Hampden County Sheriff's Office is proud to host the United States Police Canine Association, Inc. (USPCA) Regional Trials on Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7.

This exciting event brings together law enforcement agencies with K-9 units from across the region to showcase their skills, celebrate partnerships, and compete for the opportunity to advance to the National Trials.

Spectators are welcome to stop by and enjoy demonstrations that evaluate police canines in obedience, scent detection, and apprehension exercises. It is a unique opportunity to see firsthand the training, discipline, and teamwork that make these K-9 units such valuable members of law enforcement agencies across the country.

We kindly request spectators not bring their own working dogs or other pets to the event.

📆 𝗦𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟲 & 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟳
🕗 𝟴:𝟬𝟬 𝗮.𝗺. – 𝟭:𝟬𝟬 𝗽.𝗺. 𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗱𝗮𝘆
📍 𝗛𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝘆 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗳𝗳'𝘀 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝟲𝟮𝟳 𝗥𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱, 𝗟𝘂𝗱𝗹𝗼𝘄

"When people see a police canine in action, they often focus on the dog's impressive abilities. What they may not see are the countless hours of training, discipline, and trust that exist between the canine and their handler," Sheriff Cocchi said. "Our K-9 Unit embodies teamwork at its finest, and I couldn't be more proud of the work they do on behalf of our office and the communities we serve. We are honored to host the USPCA Regional Trial."

We hope you'll join us for a weekend of competition, camaraderie, and canine excellence!

06/03/2026

🌈 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 🌈

This Pride Month, Sheriff Nick Cocchi and the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize and celebrate the contributions of our LGBTQ+ employees, colleagues, and community members.

We believe that respect, dignity, and fairness are fundamental to public service. Our commitment to treating every person with professionalism and compassion extends to the individuals we serve, those in our care and custody, and the dedicated staff who make up our organization.

The diversity of our workforce and our community strengthens us all. During Pride Month and throughout the year, we remain committed to fostering an environment where everyone is treated with respect and has the opportunity to thrive.

06/02/2026

𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐟 𝐂𝐨𝐜𝐜𝐡𝐢 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

On Tuesday afternoon, Springfield officials held a press conference at Union Station, Springfield MA to address problems that have increased there, particularly caused by congregating youth, since the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office was forced to pull POST-certified deputies from local cities and towns, including Springfield. On Monday evening, according to officials, Springfield Police officers from across the city responded to a dangerous, escalating situation as 50-70 youth gathered at the station.

Starting last August as part of the Safe Travels Initiative, a major new safety and hospitality effort at Union Station, the Sheriff’s Office had two deputies working two shifts, Monday through Friday, at Union Station alongside Springfield Police. HCSO’s last day in Union Station was April 12.

“We are deeply concerned by the reports of youth-related disturbances and violence at Union Station. These incidents underscore exactly why the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office maintained a proactive public safety presence there in partnership with the Springfield Police Department,” Sheriff Nick Cocchi said. “That collaboration helped deter disruptive behavior and improve safety for commuters, visitors, and employees. We hope policymakers recognize that decisions made in Boston have real consequences at the local level, and that reducing resources for proven public safety initiatives can have a direct impact on the communities we serve.”

Earlier this year, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office was forced to scale back a number of proactive public safety initiatives, including its regular presence at Union Station and in municipalities throughout Western Massachusetts, as a result of ongoing budget challenges facing sheriff’s offices across the Commonwealth. The reductions were driven by funding decisions and legislative priorities established in Boston, which left the agency without the resources necessary to continue many of the supplemental services it had historically provided to local communities and law enforcement partners.

“The Office of Inspector General released a report on sheriffs’ spending this week, which labeled law enforcement support from the sheriffs as ‘discretionary.’ This is a characterization we strongly dispute and the situation at Union Station is a sad example of why we believe public safety, including of being a force-multiplier for local police, is essential to our collective mission,” Sheriff Cocchi said.

06/01/2026

𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐅𝐚𝐫 𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲

The Office of Inspector General’s final report on Massachusetts sheriffs highlighted something we’ve known for a long time: the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office serves a role that extends far beyond the walls of a correctional facility.

The report recognized that the Western Massachusetts Regional Women’s Correctional Center serves women from five counties and houses high-risk female inmates from across the Commonwealth. It also acknowledged the importance of the Stonybrook Stabilization and Treatment Center, the Commonwealth’s only sheriff-operated Section 35 treatment facility.

Importantly, the report found that both facilities are significantly underfunded despite providing critical regional and statewide services. The OIG noted that these programs benefit communities throughout Massachusetts and require substantial support from the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office to continue operating.

“While this report confirms what we’ve long understood about the regional and statewide responsibilities entrusted to our office, it also underscores the need for adequate resources to sustain these critical services,” said Sheriff Nick Cocchi. “The Women’s Correctional Center and Stonybrook Stabilization and Treatment Center serve some of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable populations, and we remain committed to providing the care, treatment, and public safety services they depend on.”

We appreciate the professionalism of the OIG throughout its review and their recognition of the unique responsibilities carried by our office. We remain committed to public safety, rehabilitation, treatment, and recovery, and we look forward to working with our partners in state government to ensure these vital regional services remain available for the people who need them most.

“We will continue fighting for regional equity and the resources necessary to support a model that has been recognized nationally for its success in reducing recidivism, expanding treatment opportunities, and improving public safety,” Sheriff Cocchi added. “The Commonwealth should invest in what works, and this report makes clear that many of the programs producing those results are being delivered right here in Hampden County.”

06/01/2026

𝐇𝐂𝐒𝐎 𝐌𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐎𝐂 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧 𝐄𝐝𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬

Sheriff Nick Cocchi and the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Correction Officer John Edwards following his line-of-duty death this weekend.

Officer Edwards dedicated his career to serving others and earned the respect of all who worked alongside him through his professionalism, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the correctional profession. His service at MCI Concord and NCCI Gardner left a lasting impact on his fellow officers and the communities he served.

"The loss of a correction officer is felt throughout the entire public safety family," said Sheriff Cocchi. "During this difficult time, we join our partners across the Commonwealth in mourning Officer Edwards and honoring his legacy of service."

Please keep Officer Edwards’ loved ones, fellow officers, and all members of the Massachusetts Department of Correction in your thoughts and prayers.

Rest easy, Officer Edwards. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

🖤

05/28/2026

𝐇𝐂𝐒𝐎 𝐃𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐞, 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 & 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐮𝐝𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐌𝐚𝐧 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞

The Hampden County Sheriff’s Office was proud to assist the Ludlow Police Department, MA in the successful search and rescue of missing 83-year-old James Wlodyka after our Regional Search & Rescue Team, Medical Emergency Response Team personnel, and Drone Unit were requested to respond on Wednesday night.

Mr. Wlodyka was reportedly last seen around noon on Wednesday before being reported missing to Ludlow Police at approximately 7:55 p.m. At about 9:30 p.m., Ludlow PD contacted the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center requesting specialized search assets to assist in the growing search effort.

HCSO personnel quickly mobilized and responded to the command post at the Ludlow Police Department. Working alongside Ludlow Police, Massachusetts State Police, K-9 teams, and other responding agencies, crews reviewed search history, mapped previously searched areas, and developed a coordinated response plan.

Investigators learned Mr. Wlodyka was known to walk the area near his home with a walker and would typically return home periodically throughout the day. Authorities also confirmed he was not at a local hospital, did not have a cellphone, and was not enrolled in the Triad Division's Project Lifesaver Electronic-Search and Rescue program.

At approximately 10:45 p.m., HCSO drones were launched near the area of his home. Shortly afterward, a South Hadley Police Department drone operator also arrived to assist with aerial search operations. At approximately 11:30 p.m., the HCSO Drone Team located a human-sized heat signature roughly one mile from Mr. Wlodyka’s home.

Ludlow Police officers and Ludlow Fire personnel were guided to the location by drone operators and found Mr. Wlodyka approximately 10 to 12 feet down a ravine, lying on his back and unable to get up. Thankfully, no serious injuries were discovered. Rescue crews then developed an extrication plan and, utilizing a Stokes basket, carried him nearly three-quarters of a mile through wooded terrain to a waiting ambulance. He was later transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.

“While the full-time HCSO Law Enforcement Division has been scaled back due to the financial challenges affecting the Commonwealth and sheriff’s offices statewide, we remain committed to answering the call when our communities need us most during emergency situations,” 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗳𝗳 𝗡𝗶𝗰𝗸 𝗖𝗼𝗰𝗰𝗵𝗶 𝘀𝗮𝗶𝗱. “Our specialty units exist to supplement the outstanding work being done by police departments and first responders throughout our region. Whether it’s our Drone Unit, K-9s, Marine Patrol, or Search Teams, our ultimate goal is always the same — to help protect the public, support our law enforcement partners, and enhance public safety across Western Massachusetts. Successful rescues like this are only possible because of continued specialized training and the outstanding partnerships between responding agencies.”

Sheriff Cocchi would like to thank the Ludlow Police Department, Ludlow Fire Department, South Hadley Police and Fire Departments, Massachusetts State Police, and all responding personnel for their teamwork and professionalism throughout this successful rescue effort. 💙🚔

WWLP-22News Western Mass News MassLive

05/25/2026

🇺🇸 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐆𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐀𝐥𝐥 🇺🇸

This Memorial Day, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office joins communities across the nation in honoring the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

As many gather today with family and friends, we are reminded that Memorial Day is more than the unofficial start of summer. It is a solemn day of remembrance – a time to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and selflessness of those who gave their lives defending the freedoms we cherish every day.

We also remember the families of our fallen heroes, whose strength and sacrifice continue long after the loss of a loved one. Their grief, resilience, and enduring pride are woven into the fabric of our nation.

“Memorial Day is a powerful reminder that freedom comes at a tremendous cost,” Sheriff Nick Cocchi said. “As we spend time with loved ones, we must also pause to honor those who never had the chance to come home. Their sacrifice and legacy will never be forgotten.”

On behalf of Sheriff Cocchi and the men and women of the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who have served our nation and especially to those who gave their lives in its defense.

We wish everyone a safe, reflective, and meaningful Memorial Day.

🇺🇸

05/22/2026

🚤☀️ 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐘𝐨𝐮 ☀️🚤

As Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer and boating season swings into full gear across Western Massachusetts, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office is reminding everyone to make safety a priority before heading out on the water.

Whether you’re spending time on Congamond Lakes, the Connecticut River, or other local waterways, responsible boating helps ensure that everyone can enjoy a safe and memorable summer.

Massachusetts boaters should also be aware of the recent Hanson-Milone Boating Safety Act, which includes new age and equipment requirements aimed at improving safety on the water (learn more at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/hanson-milone-boater-safety-act-frequently-asked-questions).

Before launching this season, remember these important boating safety tips:

⚓ Take a state-approved boating safety course and obtain your boating safety certificate before hitting the water
⚓ Wear your life jacket – even strong swimmers can encounter dangerous conditions
⚓ Boat operators must be at least 12 years old; Jet Ski operators must be at least 16
⚓ Observe no-wake zones, especially near docks and marinas
⚓ Watch your speed and stay alert in busy waterways
⚓ Carry a marine VHF radio and remember Channel 16 is the designated distress channel
⚓ Anchor from the bow, never the stern, and use adequate anchor line
⚓ Monitor weather and water conditions before and during your trip
⚓ Be aware of “boater’s hypnosis,” where sun, wind, vibration, and motion can reduce alertness and impair reaction time – especially when combined with alcohol consumption

“Boating should be enjoyable for everyone, and that starts with making responsible decisions before and during every trip on the water,” said Nick Cocchi. “Following safety procedures, wearing life jackets, and remaining alert can help prevent tragedies and ensure families create positive memories all summer long.”

While the Hampden County Sheriff’s Marine Patrol Unit will not be as active with proactive patrols due to the fiscal crisis affecting the Commonwealth, our commitment to public safety remains.

Have a safe, enjoyable, and responsible boating season, Western Mass.!

🚤

Address

627 Randall Road
Ludlow, MA
01056

Telephone

(413) 858-0000

Website

http://hcsoma.org/

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