The dean of students at Pittsfield (Massachusetts) High School was arrested and charged Wednesday after purportedly selling cocaine in the area.

The dean, Lavante Wiggins, 30, and co-conspirator Theodore Warren, 42, both of Pittsfield, are accused of operating a drug trafficking organization, with Mr. Warren working as a drug runner for Mr. Wiggins, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts said in a release.

Mr. Wiggins purportedly knew that he was under investigation for the alleged trafficking as early as August. Mr. Warren was sent to deliver cocaine and complete sales, including for one customer who owed Mr. Wiggins over $34,000. 

The two allegedly continued selling that customer cocaine while collecting on the debt.

The customer cooperated with investigators as a witness, according to iBerkshires.com. 

If Mr. Wiggins and Mr. Warren are found guilty of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession of the drug with the intent of distributing it, they each face up to 20 years in prison, as much as a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million.

Mr. Wiggins had been dean of students at Pittsfield High since 2021, but was put on leave following his arrest.

“Please know that we remain committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for our students and staff,” Pittsfield Public Schools Superintendent Joseph Curtis said in a statement, according to The Berkshire Eagle newspaper.

• Brad Matthews can be reached at bmatthews@washingtontimes.com.