Two West Virginia state employees have been terminated following their arrests in connection with a fire that occurred at a former Governor’s mansion in Beckley.
The incident took place on October 20 along Crestview Drive. The mansion, which was once the residence of former West Virginia Governor Hullett Smith, is currently owned by the family of Governor Jim Justice.
According to the West Virginia State Fire Marshal, both individuals have been charged with First Degree Arson and Conspiracy to Commit a Felony. David W. Cole, 30, from Beckley, was arrested and subsequently arraigned in Raleigh County Magistrate Court, where his bond was set at $100,000. He remains in custody at the regional jail.
Billy R. Workman Jr., 24, also from Beckley, turned himself in to the West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office. Like Cole, Workman faces the same charges and had his bond set at $100,000. Initially taken to Southern Regional Jail, he has since been released on bond.
Robert Cunningham, Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Homeland Security (WVDHS), issued a statement regarding the arrests. He confirmed that the department has been collaborating with various agencies, including the West Virginia Fire Marshal and State Police, during the investigation.
Cunningham noted, “David W. Cole and Billy R. Workman Jr., both employees of the Southern Regional Jail and Correctional Facility, were employed by WVDCR at the time of their arrests. However, they are no longer part of the organization, and their employment has been terminated.”
As this remains an ongoing investigation and a personnel matter, further details have not been disclosed. Cunningham emphasized the importance of adhering to legal processes for anyone charged with a crime, highlighting the commitment of the Department of Homeland Security to ensure public safety and maintain trust within the community.
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