The former dean of students at English High School in Boston was arraigned Thursday amid accusations he shot a 17-year-old boy execution style in Roxbury, Mass.

Reverend Shaun O. Harrison was a leading faculty member at English High, had worked with Boston police, local churches and was active in anti-violence efforts around the city. But now he is facing five charges related to the shooting of a 17-year-old, which was recorded by a nearby business’ surveillance camera.

Harrison is also accused of running a marijuana distribution enterprise and recruiting the 17-year-old boy to work for him, according to masslive.com. The boy, who was taken to Boston Medical Center, is claiming he sold marijuana for Harrison. A dispute about the business is alleged to have led to the shooting, which took place just blocks from Harrison’s home.

Among the charges facing Harrison is armed assault with intent to murder, and authorities are also probing his gang ties. Harrison is due back in Roxbury District Court on April 6.

The city of Boston is also looking into the employment history of Harrison, reports WBUR. An inititial review of his records didn’t indicate evidence that he was involved in criminal activity. The Boston Globe is reporting, however, that the school was planning to fire Harrison for shoving a female student hours before the shooting. Additionally, police investigated the former dean’s activities last summer but came up with nothing.

Photo: thegrio.com

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