Northbridge High School soccer coach, father charged with marijuana distribution

NORTHBRIDGE (FOX 25 / MyFoxBoston.com) - The Northbridge High School boys soccer coach and his 65-year-old father are facing drug charges after police seized approximately 50 marijuana plants and 143 marijuana seedlings from a Millbury residence.

James D. Cestone, 40, of West Brookfield, has been charged with distribution of a class D substance (marijuana), possession of a class D substance with intent to distribute and possession of class D substance.  He is scheduled to appear in court on Friday, reports The Telegram & Gazette.

James Cestone, who is also a math teacher at Northbridge High School, has been placed on paid administrative leave from both positions.

John A. Cestone, Jr., 65, of 14 Mildred Ave., in Millbury, is due in court on Oct. 18 on the same charges.

Police told The Telegram & Gazette that they received a tip from a Department of Public Works employee who found a large box of marijuana leaves at the residence in January. 

Further investigation led police to John Cestone's house. He told police that his son James, who also owns a house on the same street, was aware that he was growing pot in his basement.

Police contacted James Cestone who told police that he was helping his father because the pot-growing operation was too much for him to handle on his own.  He also admitted that he used the marijuana and sold it to friends.

For more information: The Worcester Telegram & Gazette

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