A former New Jersey state trooper pleaded guilty Thursday to helping run a gambling ring and will assist authorities in their case against former NHL hockey star Rick Tocchet.

James Harney, an eight-year veteran with the state police, pleaded guilty to conspiracy, promoting gambling and official misconduct in a negotiated deal.

Harney, 40, initially faced more than 25 years in jail, but the plea bargain has reduced his maximum sentence to seven years.

Tocchet's lawyer, Kevin Marino, said he questions Harney's motives implicated his client.

"He's not a concerned citizen who covered someone's wrongdoing and testified about it," Marino told Canada AM Friday.

"He's someone who's really got to say what he's got to say to protect his own interests," he said.

The deal comes six months after New Jersey police charged Harvey, Tocchet and James Ulmer with running a gambling ring whose alleged participants included a handful of current NHL players and Wayne Gretzky's wife Janet Jones.

As part of the deal, Harney has agreed to help the state build its case against Tocchet, and possibly Ulmer.

Authorities have said they do not expect to lay charges against any of the individuals who laid bets, and NHL officials say there were not bets placed on hockey games.

Harney tendered his resignation to the New Jersey State Police on Wednesday, acknowledging in a letter on his lawyer's website that his "personal judgment has been severely flawed."

He also apologized for humiliating and disgracing his former employer.

Tocchet was an assistant coach for the Phoenix Coyotes under Wayne Gretzky when the case broke in February.

Tocchet played for a number of teams including the Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins, during his 18-year career before making the transition to coaching.

He faces charges of promoting gambling, money laundering and conspiracy.

According to authorities, Tocchet allegedly bankrolled the operation while Harney accepted bets.

With files from The Canadian Press.