School Employee in Plymouth County Accused of Stealing Food for Cape Cod Snack Shack
A shocking scandal has emerged in Plymouth County as Patrick VanCott, a former food services director for Plymouth public schools, faces serious larceny charges. Officials allege that for years, VanCott pilfered food and equipment from school cafeterias to stock his Cape Cod snack shack, raising questions about integrity and trust in our educational institutions.
Details of the Case
In a disturbing turn of events, VanCott, 62, from Sandwich, pleaded not guilty at his recent arraignment in Plymouth District Court. The charges against him are grave, encompassing larceny over $1,200, larceny from a building, and larceny under $1,200 by a single scheme. The evidence suggests a premeditated plan to exploit his access to school resources for personal gain (Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office).
Legal Proceedings and Bail Conditions
Initially held on a $50,000 cash bail, VanCott was ordered to refrain from visiting all Plymouth school campuses and storage facilities. After a subsequent bail review, a superior court judge granted a reduction to $10,000, allowing him to post bail and requiring him to wear a GPS monitor upon his release. His attorney, Nate Amendola, has stated emphatically, “People should be reminded that folks are innocent until proven guilty and we are going to vigorously defend this case.”
How the Investigation Unfolded
The investigation into VanCott’s activities began when a concerned citizen submitted an anonymous letter to school officials, alleging a pattern of criminal behavior involving food and equipment theft. The letter prompted a police investigation, which uncovered alarming details about the extent of the theft.
Authorities confirmed that the stolen items belonged to the town and were financed through federal funds—adding a layer of complexity to the situation. VanCott, known for being the sole order placer for the school cafeteria, found himself identified as the key suspect, leading the investigation to his snack shack at Sandy Neck Beach in Barnstable.
The Eye-Opening Findings
According to reports, VanCott’s orders included lavish items such as premium Angus hamburgers, hot dogs, and lobster meat, none of which were ever intended for students or school staff. Surveillance footage documented him loading two commercial refrigerators onto his truck, inevitably sealing his fate.
Investigators meticulously reviewed cafeteria financial documents, revealing a shocking tally of over $8,300 in goods that were allegedly misappropriated. These items included:
- Refrigerated sandwich table: $1,700
- Convection oven: $850
- Microwave: $299
- Industrial-sized refrigerator: Found during a search warrant execution at his snack shack
- Additional kitchen equipment and government-issued food
Conclusion: What’s Next?
The implications of this case extend beyond VanCott; they challenge the trust placed in school employees to act ethically. His next court appearance is set for July 21, where the ramifications of these allegations will be further unravelled.
For more insight on the ethical standards expected from public employees, check out this resource from the National School Boards Association. The intersection of food service and integrity is not just a culinary concern; it’s a community issue that resonates deeply in our public institutions.
