CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Appalachian Power Company has offered a $25,000 reward for the arrest and conviction of those responsible for vandalism at the East Lynn Power Station in Wayne County back in January that impacted the Wayne water system
“We take the safety and reliability of our system very seriously, and we understand the impact this situation has had on Wayne residents,” said Brian Abraham, APCo president and COO said in a Monday news release. “Acts like this are illegal and dangerous, and we are working with law enforcement to hold those who commit them accountable.”
A sheen was reported in Twelvepole Creek near the substation on Jan. 14. A security fence had been cut open at the substation and a valve opened on a transformer. Mineral oil used to cool the transformer leaked into the creek.
Customers of Wayne water couldn’t use their water for cooking or bathing for several days. Appalachian Power has paid the water bills for for February and March for the impacted residents.
Anyone with information that could assist with the ongoing investigation is asked to call the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office at (304) 272-6378 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or email officemanager@waynewvsheriff.org.
Appalachian Power said, “If more than one person provides information leading to a conviction, the reward may be divided among eligible individuals, as determined by APCo, which is working closely with local law enforcement and urges anyone with information to come forward.”