By Jim Clark

Somerville Police units responded to a report that thieves were making off with scrap metal at East Somerville Community School last Friday, at approximately 2:26 a.m.

The school is currently under construction and is fenced off to the public and has posted no trespassing signs in plain view, said police.

Arriving officers reported seeing Francis Palazzi, 47, placing a large metal beam onto the roof of his vehicle.

When questioned about this, Palazzi allegedly stated that he was unemployed and needed to make some money to pay his lawyer because he had a court appearance the next day.

A passenger in Palazzi’s vehicle, Tracy Dattilio, 32, of North Reading, was reportedly seen dropping work gloves to the floor of the vehicle.

In all, 8 large rusty metal beams were located on the vehicle’s roof, and two smaller beams were found in the back seat, according to police.

Palazzi was placed under arrest for larceny over $250 and trespassing.

Dattilio will be summoned to court for larceny over $250 and trespassing.