EVERETT, Mass. — Wayne A. Matewsky, who served 40 years in Everett city government, resigned from the City Council on May 26 citing health concerns. Five days earlier, according to his attorney, Everett police had interviewed him about an allegation of childhood sexual abuse.
Matewsky denies the allegation. No charges have been filed against him.
The allegation comes from Scott Merchant, 37, of Salisbury, who grew up in Everett. Merchant told the Boston Globe and the Middlesex district attorney’s office that Matewsky sexually abused him as a child, beginning when he was about 10. The claim is also contained in a sentencing memorandum Merchant’s lawyer filed in Essex Superior Court, the Globe reported on June 11.
Merchant is the same man arrested in September 2025 for posting online bomb and death threats against Matewsky. He pleaded guilty to a felony bomb or hijack threat charge and a related misdemeanor before Judge Kathleen McCarthy-Neyman, and was released on time served with three years of probation and an order to stay away from Matewsky.
Merchant and his lawyer, Ernie Stone, told the Globe he never intended to carry out the threats, and described the posts as “the manifestation of a mental health crisis triggered by resurfaced trauma.” Merchant told the paper: “My intention was to create awareness.”
Attorney confirms police interview
Matewsky’s attorney, Alfred P. Farese Jr., acknowledged to the Globe that his client was interviewed by Everett police on May 21 about the claims. Farese called Merchant “a very sick individual” and said “we believe that he was making up a story just to prevent him having a federal case.”
Matewsky, 68, told the Globe: “Never happened.” He said he was resigning because of declining health and advancing age.
A childhood friend of Merchant’s, Corey Gordon, told the Globe that Matewsky did not touch him but that he remembered feeling “cornered” in a room where Matewsky suggested he expose himself. The Globe reported that Merchant and Gordon have both spoken with Middlesex prosecutors. The Middlesex district attorney’s office has not announced any action.
The resignation
At the May 26 council meeting, Matewsky rose on a point of personal privilege and said, “I’m retiring as of this evening,” calling it “just a personal decision” and citing “recent health concerns.” He handed his resignation letter to City Clerk Sergio Cornelio. Council President Stephanie Smith called the announcement “definitely a surprise.” Ward 6 Councilor Peter Pietrantonio said Matewsky “gave every ounce of his bone and his blood to this city.”
John Hanlon, a former councilor who finished sixth in last November’s at-large race, fills the seat.
Everett MA News is continuing to report on this story. Anyone with information can contact the newsroom at editor@everettmanews.com. We do not publish the names of people who report sexual abuse without their consent.
