Kentucky Security Guard Convicted of Stealing Copper

A western Kentucky jury has convicted a former security guard of stealing copper cable at a railroad engine shop where he formerly worked.

The McCracken Circuit Court jury took about 45 minutes to convict 43-year-old Anthony Fagan and under 10 minutes more to recommend a maximum 20-year prison term.

According to The Paducah Sun, Fagan caused more than $500,000 damage to 34 railroad engines by cutting copper cabling out of them while they were at VMW Paducahbilt to be overhauled.

Commonwealth’s Attorney Raymond McGee said the company also reported up to $500,000 more in lost business because of the damage.

Defense attorney David Troutman argued that others had stolen the copper and caused the damage.

Fagan will be sentenced Nov. 1.