Hockey: Former NHL star Tocchet pleads guilty

Trenton, NJ (Sports Network) - Former NHL player Rick Tocchet pleaded guilty on Friday to running a sports gambling ring.
Tocchet, who is currently on leave from his job as an assistant coach for the Phoenix Coyotes, pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy and promoting gambling, both in the third degree.
"Mr. Tocchet found the quick profits of sports bookmaking alluring," said New Jersey attorney general Stuart Rabner. "Of course, they also are illegal. He will now face a sentencing judge for the consequences of his actions."
Sentencing has been scheduled for August 17. Under New Jersey law, third- degree crimes carry a maximum sentence of five years in state prison and third-degree gambling offenses also carry a fine of up to $25,000.
Tocchet is the third man to plead guilty in the case, which New Jersey authorities named "Operation Slapshot." The others, including state trooper James Harney, are expected to get jail time.
Tocchet was identified by the New Jersey State Police as being the alleged partner and financier of Harney.
According to State Police, the investigation revealed a sports betting system that processed more than 1,000 wagers that exceeded a total of $1.7 million on professional and collegiate sporting events during a 40-day period.