SHOWELL, Md.- Criminal charges have been filed against a man accused of stripping precious metals and other parts from the HVAC units of the Perdue Farms facility in Showell, Md. Damage to the HVAC units is estimated to have exceeded more than half a million dollars, according to investigators.
John Charles Woodward, 56, of Millsboro, Del., is charged with two counts of theft- $1,000 to under $10,000, theft scheme- $1,000 to under $10,000 and malicious destruction of property over $500.
The Worcester County Bureau of Investigation said Woodward's arrest stemmed from an incident that occurred on July 10, 2011, when a county sheriff's deputy took an initial report of a theft and malicious destruction of property from the Perdue facility. The thefts actually took place during a few week timeframe and were documented by the maintenance personnel, according to police.
It was reported that the HVAC units on the roof of the building were stripped of their precious metals, to include copper and aluminum. Several cooling fans along with duct work for the chillers were also taken. A ground based York air conditioning unit was also taken from the facility. Repairs to the mentioned HVAC systems to today's EPA standards are estimated to exceed $500,000, according to police.
The investigation was forwarded to the WCBI for a follow-up investigation. After working with Perdue Farms security staff and reviewing surveillance equipment footage, WCBI investigators said they were able to positively identify Woodward as the suspect. He was captured by surveillance equipment on the property during the mentioned timeframe, according to investigators.
A search of invoices from area salvage yards where precious metals can be taken for cash was also completed. Investigators said Woodward had many invoices in his name for the mentioned timeframe. Many of the invoices were for copper and aluminum with amounts consistent with the estimated loss, police said.
As a result of the investigation, a summons was issued for Woodward to answer to the aforementioned list of charges.
An initial appearance for Woodward is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 24, in the District Court of Maryland.
John Charles Woodward
