Officer accused of stealing drugs

SOMERSET, MASS. (WPRI) - A local police officer has found himself on the other side of the law, after he is accused of creating a ruse to collect prescription drugs from the elderly.

33 year-old Somerset Police officer Ricardo Pavao is accused of taking drugs from elderly residents at North Farm Estates apartment complex.

Pavao allegedly entered the apartment complex while on duty Sunday and told residents he was collecting emergency contact information and expired prescription drugs.

Police discovered his actions when a resident called to say he accidentally gave the wrong information.

According to police, an investigation found prescription pills in Pavao's police locker and car that were the same type reportedly taken from the seniors.

Pavao has been placed on administrative leave and sent for drug testing. He is due back in court March 28.