West End Squatter Caught With Meth: Cops

MANCHESTER, NH — A man reportedly squatting in a vacant apartment was arrested on charges last night after police allegedly found him in possession of methamphetamine, according to a press report. Francis McLaughlin, 25, a homeless man now located in Manchester, was arrested on Aug. 10, 2017, after police were sent to a vacant apartment on Granite Street. When they arrived, according to Lt. Brian O’Keefe of the Manchester Police Department, they allegedly found McLaughlin inside of the bathroom of the apartment.

Editor’s Note: This post was derived from information supplied by the Manchester Police Department. It does not indicate a conviction. This link explains the name removal request process for NH Patch police reports.

“McLaughlin exited the bathroom and spoke with (the) officer near the kitchen,” according to a press statement. “The officer noticed a hypodermic needle sticking out of a bag located next to the refrigerator. (The) officer seized a small amount of methamphetamine inside of the bag after McLaughlin consented to a search.” (For more information on this and other neighborhood stories, subscribe to Bedford NH Patch to receive daily newsletters and breaking news alerts.)

McLaughlin was arrested without incident and transported to police headquarters. He’s scheduled to be arraigned today.

According to reports online, McLaughlin was arrested in April 2014, on a bench warrant in Bedford by state police. In May 2014, according to the New Hampshire Union Leader, he was arrested on two theft charges after allegedly stealing items from Market Basket. He later failed to appear in court, according to the report.