David Scott, Chief of Police
59 Main St.
Pepperell, MA 01463
For Immediate Release
Thursday, May 17, 2018
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
Pepperell Police Investigate Theft of Funds from PTO
PEPPERELL — Chief David Scott reports that the Pepperell Police Department has investigated a theft of funds from the Varnum Brook Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization.
As a direct result of the police investigation, a suspect has been identified, and the missing funds have been returned to the organization.
In exchange for the safe and complete return of the funds, which are meant for programs and services for Pepperell school children, the PTO has declined to press charges or testify in court.
“The facts and circumstances of every case are different. As much as possible we consider the totality of all factors involved in every case when making decisions to prosecute,” Chief Scott said. “In this case, as in others, we considered the ability to prosecute the case with the evidence gathered, the willingness of the suspect to provide full restitution and the victim’s wishes regarding prosecution.”
In this instance, the PTO was advised of its legal options and was able to quickly recoup its funds without a potentially long and drawn out legal process that could not have guaranteed the return of the funds or may have delayed the return of the funds by months or years.
In reviewing all of the facts and the position of the PTO leadership not to press the case, the Pepperell Police Department, weighing the likelihood of a successful conviction, closed the case. The Pepperell Police Department is pleased that the funds were returned to the PTO and is proud of its role in identifying the suspect and helping to ensure the return of the missing money.
###