Norwood Police Looking to Charge Landlords in Drug Arrest

The Norwood Police issued a press release on Thursday stating that after the arrest of a repeat drug dealer, they are looking to charge the landlord.

Lashauna Pettway, 40, of 15 Sturtevant Ave. was arrested for possession with intent to distribute of a class D substance.

Police executed a search of the premises after obtaining a valid warrant from the Dedham District Court because of continued drug activity at the address by 24 year old resident Henry S. Samuels.  The investigation into Samuels began during August of 2012 when he was arrested at his 15 Sturtevant Avenue apartment for distributing marijuana to two school age kids. 

At that time, Samuels was charged with a Subsequent Offense of Marijuana Distribution due to the fact he had previously been convicted of that offense. 

Police notified the landlord of the residence and put them on notice that further action from them was required in regards to eviction of tenants.

Massachusetts General Law Chapter 139 Section 20 provides for monetary penalties to and or imprisonment for landlords who allow such activity to take place after being put on notice by the police.

The law provides that “whoever permits premises owned by them or under their control to remain a common nuisance by the sale of controlled substances under MGL 94C, may be punished by a fine of not more than $1000 or imprisonment of not more than one year, or both”.

Samuels and his family remain at that address today.   The Norwood Police will be filing a criminal complaint at the Dedham District Court against the landlord for failure to comply with M.G.L.Ch. 139 S. 20.  

Samuels, not home at the time of the search will be charged with Possession of Class D Marijuana with Intent to Distribute based on the seized drugs.  Samuels’ mother, Lashauna L. Pettway, a 40 year old female and head of household for 15 Sturtevant Ave. Apt. #1 was arrested at the scene for Possession of Class D Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, and being the Keeper of a Disorderly House for her role in the case.