Tuesday, November 17, 2009

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Official accused of selling town property on eBay

NORTH ANDOVER, Mass. -- North Andover's purchasing director was arrested on Monday, accused of using eBay to embezzle money from the town.

Joseph Lydick allegedly was selling surplus town property on e-Bay and then pocketing the profits. Items that were listed included old police cruisers, fire equipment, and DPW trucks. Normally, these items would be auctioned off with the money going to help the town.

Police confirmed the items were being auctioned via the town's eBay account.

Lydick is charged with larceny and embezzlement by a municipal official. He's accused of stealing more than $10,000 from the town of North Andover.

With the stolen money, he purchased an engagement ring an engagement ring for his girlfriend.

North Andover residents are outraged.

"Somebody who has a job and still has to steal from the public office, it's inexcusable, it's just inexcusable," said Ed Rayner, who is upset by Lydick.

Town manager Mark Rees alerted police last week and told 7News that Lydick is on unpaid leave while they investigate the alleged fiscal impropriety.

According to court papers, Lydick told investigators that he was depressed and would have killed himself if he didn't have kids.

The purchasing director was bringing in close to $70,000 a year before his scheme unraveled.

Lydick was given a court appointed attorney and has to return to court Wednesday. He was ordered to stay to stay off-line.

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