Teachers Convicted Of Giving Booze To Underage Guests

PEABODY, MA - Two public school teachers were found guilty by a Peabody District Court jury last week of furnishing alcohol to minors at party at their Saugus home in 2013.

Judge Richard Mori sentenced them to nine months in the House of Correction with 30 days to be served and the balance suspended for two years. During that time, they must remain drug and alcohol free, submit to random screens, and perform 50 hours of community service.

John Penza is an Everett High School teacher and his wife, Josephine Penza, teaches at a Medford elementary school

Essex Assistant District Attorney Shailagh Kennedy introduced evidence that proved that John, 52, and Josephine Penza, 55, of 14 Palmer Avenue in Saugus, were at home on August 18, 2013 during a party at which underage guests were drinking alcohol. Just before midnight, Saugus Police responded to a noise complaint at that address and found an estimated 70 minors, including a 16-year-old girl in an upstairs bathroom who was highly intoxicated and was transported by ambulance to an area hospital. Testimony at trial indicated that Mrs. Penza told the 16-year-old girl to tell the police that she was suffering from food poisoning. ADA Kennedy introduced as evidence photographs showing a table set-up for the purpose of a drinking game and numerous empty alcohol containers.

“Parents can no longer turn a blind eye when it comes to underage drinking,” District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett said. “The statute makes it clear that allowing a minor to possess alcohol on your property violates the law. The sentence imposed underscores the seriousness of the offense and I hope will send a message to other parents who think letting young people drink in their home is no big deal.”

“We remind parents and guardians that if your child is under 21 and is caught having a party where there is alcohol, you could face charges under the state’s Social Host Law. Do not be tempted to allow your son or daughter to have friends over to drink, especially during the holidays or end of the year celebrations,” Saugus Police Chief Domenic DiMella said. “I commend Saugus Police on their diligence and hard work throughout this case.”

The defendants were represented by Attorney Francis O’Brien. Mr. Penza began serving his sentence immediately. Mrs. Penza will begin serving her sentence on January 15, 2016.