February 26, 2026 – Springfield, Massachusetts – The Hampden District Attorney’s Office has initiated criminal charges against Massachusetts State Police Sergeant Joel Daoust in connection with an on-duty, non-lethal use-of-force incident during a traffic stop in Springfield on January 3, 2026.

Based on an investigation conducted by the State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Hampden District Attorney’s Office, Daoust has been charged with:

• Assault and Battery
• Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon (OC Spray)

According to the investigation, Daoust initiated a motor vehicle stop for alleged speeding and marked lanes violations. During the encounter, force was used against the motorist, including physical force and the deployment of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray. The circumstances surrounding that use of force form the basis of the charges.

The defendant is expected to be arraigned in Springfield District Court on April 3, 2026.

The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. No further comment will be made at this time.