From the Kentucky State Police -
On Thursday, October 24, 2019 at 8:00 a.m. Kentucky State Police, Post 10 Harlan received a call from Contract Highwall Mining from Middlesboro about a theft.
The company stated they had several different types of tools taken from a job site in Middlesboro. Tpr. Don Perry and Tpr. Keith Baker responded and began an investigation.
Through their investigation troopers discovered information which led them to the residence of 42 year old James Lay of Frakes. Upon arriving at Mr. Lay’s residence they located several items that was stolen from the mine site. After a further search of the residence troopers located approximately $30,000 of the tools that was taken.
Mr. Lay was arrested and charged with theft over $10,000 and lodged in the Bell County Detention Center. An active arrest warrant was also served on Mr. Lay for receiving stolen property.
The case is still under investigation by Tpr. Don Perry.