CHARLESTON, W.Va. –A former National Park Service worker pleaded guilty Wednesday to theft of government property.
James Masters, 38, of Victor, admitted that he used his position as a worker, from October 2025 to February 2026, to access and remove money for the donation box at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, which is part of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in Fayette County, without permission or authority on several occasions.
Masters stole approximately $150 dollars from the donation box. He also admitted to covering surveillance cameras to avoid detection.
He faces a maximum of one year in prison, up to one year of supervised release, and a fine up to $100,000. He also owes $150 in restitution.
Masters will be sentenced August 19.