Patrick VanCott, former café director for Plymouth Public Schools, is facing charges of larceny over $1,200 by a single scheme and larceny from a building. According to NBC Boston, prosecutors allege VanCott, 62, of Sandwich, used his role to redirect high-end food items and equipment intended for school use to his private business, the Snack Shack on Cape Cod.
Authorities claim VanCott took premium meats such as lobster and Angus beef, as well as refrigeration units and classroom equipment. Surveillance footage showed his truck crossing the Sagamore Bridge loaded with items, including a small refrigerator, which investigators say were taken from school property.
Boston 25 News reported that the investigation began with an anonymous letter about suspicious activities at Plymouth Community Intermediate School. VanCott, who had exclusive ordering authority, allegedly made food orders that did not match student or staff menus, raising concerns about inventory mismatches.
A search of the Snack Shack reportedly uncovered multiple school-owned items, including a large industrial refrigerator, some of which were funded by the school district or federal government programs.
VanCott pleaded not guilty in Plymouth District Court and is being held on $50,000 bail. He has been ordered to stay away from all Plymouth school facilities. His next court date is scheduled for July 21.
Plymouth Public Schools Superintendent Christopher Campbell stated that the district is following internal procedures and is committed to maintaining an ethical and professional environment.
