Superintendent on Child Porn Case: So Far No Pictures of Students

In the wake of the for possession of child pornography and allegations of Castricone's odd locker room behavior, Superintendent Chris Hottel wasted no time contacting parents to calm potential concerns about students.

Hottel sent a letter to parents Tuesday afternoon assuring them that, according to police, there have been no photos of NAHS students found in Castricone's possession.

"Despite what the media may be reporting, the Chief of Police assures us that to date there are no pictures of any students 'in any way, shape or form,' Hottel wrote. "If any pictures are found during the course of the investigation, the North Andover Chief of Police will call any parents individually to let them know what has been found."

Concerns erupted after it was and possibly had an electronic device with an LED screen while in there.

"As the prosecutors stated at this morning’s arraignment, the police investigation into this matter began as a result of information gathered by the High School Administration regarding Mr. Castricone’s presence in a girls’ locker room at the High School," Hottel wrote.

Hottel went on to explain that last week, Principal Scuzzarella confronted Castricone after receiving a report of a man in the girls' locker room who was identified as Castricone and told him not to have any further contact with students or the school, pending investigation.

"When it became apparent during the investigation that Mr. Castricone was in the girls’ locker room on more than one occasion and the rationale for his presence there over multiple occasions could not be verified, Principal [Carla] Scuzzarella consulted the school resource officer on Wednesday," Hottel continued, adding that police were then notified.

Castricone had been a coach in North Andover for 25 years and racked up more than 600 wins --  a record in Massachusetts.

"This event has come as a shock to all," Hottel wrote. "The investigation that the school administration undertook was swift and complete. Those involved in the investigation process acted immediately and appropriately. We also appreciate police response in this matter. "

Hottel ended his letter assuring parents that the wrestling team was in good hands under Assistant Coach Carl Cincotta, who has been in charge of the team since Castricone left and will lead the team for the remainder of the season. The team is scheduled to defend its state title Wednesday in Worcester.

Castricone is out on bail but must stay away from children under age 16 and must stay away from the high school.