Pasco deputies tentatively identify dead body found in New Port Richey woods

NEW PORT RICHEY — Pasco County Sheriff's Office authorities reported Saturday that decomposing human remains found the day before in a wooded area are that of Anthony Joseph Cucchiara, 56, of New Port Richey.

The medical examiner's office was still reportedly working to confirm that identification, as well as the cause of death, but Cucchiara's family had been notified of the discovery.

Confirmation of the cause of death and identification are expected sometime next week, the Sheriff's Office said.

No foul play was suspected in the man's death, deputies said.

Cucchiara was last seen at his home on May 7, when he left for a meeting with his probation officer. He never arrived, and was reported missing shortly afterward. Deputies began a search at that time.

Cucchiara had threatened suicide just before his disappearance, telling friends and family he would end his own life if he ever violated probation because he did not want to return to jail.

The incident remained under investigation late Saturday.