Custodian arrested for drug possession at McKeesport middle school

In August, a custodian at Founders Hall Middle School in McKeesport was apprehended by police for possessing over 250 bags of suspected heroin or fentanyl. The arrest occurred late at night outside the school, highlighting a serious issue of drug presence within educational environments. The individual, identified as Jason Tom, faces possession charges, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for late October. This incident is part of a broader pattern of troubling events within the McKeesport Area School District. Recently, the district's police chief, Brenda Sawyer, was arrested for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars to support a gambling addiction. This situation raises concerns about the integrity and safety of the school environment, as it involves individuals responsible for maintaining order and security. Additionally, the district has been under scrutiny due to the resignation of former Superintendent Tia Wanzo, who stepped down amid a sex abuse scandal involving a security guard and a student. This series of events has led to a loss of trust in the district's leadership and has prompted investigations into various employees. As the community grapples with these issues, the school board has taken steps to address the situation by appointing Raymond Andrekanic as the acting police chief. The ongoing investigations and the recent arrests underscore the urgent need for reform and oversight within the district to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff alike.