Criminal Arrest - "Theft Of Precious Metal" - Perdue Facility

DATE: February 13, 2012
CBI Case # 11-0208 (WCSO 11-000659)
LOCATION: Purdue Farms – Showell Facility
11000BLK Worcester Highway, Showell, MD
CHARGES: Theft $1,000 to under $10,000 (2 counts)
Theft Scheme - $1,000 to under $10,000
Malicious Destruction of Property – over $500
ACCUSED: John Charles WOODWARD
W/M 56yoa
Millsboro, DE

NARRATIVE: On Sunday, July 10, 2011 a Deputy of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office took an initial report of a Theft and MDOP from the Perdue Farms – Showell Facility. The thefts actually took place during a few week timeframe and were documented by the maintenance personnel.

It was reported that the HVAC units on the roof of the building were stripped of their precious (copper and aluminum) metals. Several cooling fans along with duck work for the chillers were also taken. A ground based York A/C unit was also taken from the facility. To repair the mentioned HVAC systems to today’s EPA Standards are estimated to exceed $500,000.00.

Because of the monetary loss an intricacy of the investigation it was forwarded to the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation for follow-up. Working with the Perdue Farms Security Staff and reviewing surveillance equipment footage we were able to positively identify WOODWARD. He was captured by surveillance equipment on the property during the mentioned timeframe.

A search of invoices from area salvage yards where precious metals can be taken for cash was completed. WOODWARD had many invoices in his name for the mentioned timeframe. Many were for copper and aluminum with amounts consistent with the estimated loss.

Based upon the above facts and the detailed investigation an Application for Charges was prepared for a District Court Commissioner’s review and consideration. As a result a Summons was issued for WOODWARD on January 11, 2012 to answer for the above listed charges.

WOODWARD has been served and has obtained an attorney to represent him in this matter. An initial appearance is scheduled for Friday, February 24, 2012 in the District Court of Maryland.