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“On the morning of Thursday, June 15, the Massachusetts State Police Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) and K9 Unit continued their search of Jeffery Cote’s property in Savoy, MA to locate him. A second search of Cote’s property was deemed necessary after an unsuccessful weeklong investigation into Cote’s whereabouts.
The rugged terrain of Cote’s Savoy property made the search difficult for both law enforcement personal and canines. Approximately two hours into Thursday morning’s search, a member of the SERT team discovered a deceased body believed to be Cote. Preliminary investigation suggests there was no evidence of foul play surrounding Cote’s death; however, the investigation is ongoing. Cote’s body will be transferred to custody of the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for a post-mortem examination.
The victim in the case has been released from the hospital and is in stable condition.
Massachusetts State Police photo.
DA Shugrue released a statement:
On June 7, 2023, the Commonwealth alleged that Jeffery Cote, age 55, broke into the home of his ex-girlfriend in the town of Adams Massachusetts at approximately 5:00am. The victim was stabbed numerous times including the shoulder and neck area. The victim was able to flee to a neighbor’s house and the Adams Police were called and dispatched.
The police along with first responders treated the victim’s wounds and she was transported to Berkshire Medical Center with serious injuries. Simultaneously, police responded to Cote’s residence at 498 Chapel Road in Savoy Massachusetts. Law Enforcement response included the Adams Police; State Police Detective Unit; Massachusetts State Police Cheshire Barracks units, including the Massachusetts Special Tactical Operations Team (STOP) and the Crisis Negotiation Unit, and Troop B Patrol. Cote was unable to be located and subsequently law enforcement began a search. Today, the Massachusetts Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) and the Massachusetts State Police K9 Unit recovered Mr. Cote.
The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office was immediately involved in the investigation and the ultimate criminal prosecution.
The Berkshire District Attorney’s Victim Witness Advocate program was in constant communication with the victim. Upon the victim’s release from the hospital, a victim witness advocate ensured the victim was in a safe, undisclosed location. The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office takes domestic violence very seriously and this case demonstrates why such action is required.
I want to thank the State Police and local law enforcement for their perseverance in locating Cote. The remote, rugged terrain of the Berkshires can be difficult to navigate, and they did an excellent job.”
Massachusetts State Police photo.
