Drug Scandal at DPW; Arrests Made, More Possible: Police

North Reading, MA - The North Reading Department of Public Works is facing a potential drug scandal.

One DPW employee was arrested on dug charges on Friday following an investigation that also led to the arrest of a North Reading man on drug distribution charges.

The DPW employee, Scott McDonough of Methuen, was placed on administrative leave by Town Administrator Michael P. Gilleberto along with several other DPW employees pending an ongoing police and internal investigation.

No charges against the additional DPW employees have been filed at this time, but police officials stated the investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed.

The arrests on Friday came following a North Reading Police investigation into the alleged dealings of prescription painkillers and other drugs.

John McNeil, 56, of North Reading was arrested and charged with conspiracy to violate drug laws, four counts of possession of a Class B substance (Oxycodone), two counts of possession of a Class B substance with intent to distribute (Oxycodone), possession of a Class C substance, possession of a Class C substance with intent to distribute, possession of a Class D substance with intent to distribute (marijuana).

McDonough, 42, of Methuen, was arrested and charged with conspiracy to violate drug laws and possession of a Class B substance.

Last month, North Reading Police Detectives opened an investigation that led them to McNeil's home, where a quantity of drugs, paraphernalia, and cash was found, and the suspect was taken into custody.

The charges against McDonough come as part of a wide-ranging North Reading Police Department investigation, and additional charges may be following.

According to Gilleberto, McDonough and several other DPW employees have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the police investigation and an internal investigation by the Town of North Reading.

“I have been made aware of the police investigation and subsequent arrest of one of our Department of Public Works Employees. We will not tolerate illegal drug use by any town employee,” Gilleberto said. “We are conducting a full and thorough investigation.”

McNeil and McDonough will be arraigned today at Woburn District Court.

Photo from North Reading Police department of drugs seized from McNeil residence.