BY MATT HERSH

A Salem High School senior has been charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.

Matthew Kelly, 17,  was arrested on Wednesday, Feb. 21, after school administrators received a tip that he was in possession of a large quantity of the drug.

Together with the school’s resource officer, Matt Norcross, administrators located the student in the parking lot where they detected an odor of marijuana, according to Salem Deputy Police Chief Robert Larsen.

A search of Kelley revealed an amount larger than an ounce which police said was more than for personal use.

Superintendent Michael Delahanty said another student was with Kelley at the time but was not charged with a crime.

Kelley was then arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute.

Since the drugs were found on school property, Larsen said Kelley could face enhanced penalties.

If convicted, he could face up to 14 years in prison and a $200,000 fine.  A similar charge in a non-school zone would only carry a seven-year prison term and a $1,000 fine.

“They take that kind of stuff very seriously,” Larsen said of the penalties.

Kelley has been suspended from school while administrators determine what further actions should be taken.

“Our policy requires a significant suspension and then more review,” Delahanty said. “It’s likely going to be the recommendation that he won’t be a student at the high school anymore.”

Though Salem High School has had its share of minor drug incidents in the past, Delahanty said this is the first time he’s seen a student arrested for intent to distribute.

Currently, Kelley is out on bail while police finish their investigation. His arraignment is scheduled for March 26, Larsen said.