SPRINGFIELD — The Hampden District Attorney’s Office has filed criminal charges against a Massachusetts State Police sergeant in connection with a use-of-force incident during a traffic stop earlier this year.
Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni announced Thursday that Massachusetts State Police Sergeant Joel Daoust has been charged with assault and battery and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon following an investigation into an on-duty encounter that occurred on Jan. 3, 2026.
According to the district attorney’s office, Daoust initiated a motor vehicle stop in Springfield after observing alleged speeding and marked lanes violations.
Investigators say force was used against the motorist during the encounter, including physical force and the deployment of oleoresin capsicum spray, commonly known as OC spray.
Gulluni said the circumstances surrounding that use of force form the basis of the criminal charges.
The investigation was conducted by the State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Hampden District Attorney’s Office.
Daoust is expected to be arraigned in Springfield District Court on April 3, 2026.
The investigation remains active, and Gulluni said no further information will be released at this time.