Beckley man sentenced to prison for coal plant break-in

WYOMING COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Joseph C. Hornsby, 46, of Beckley, has been sentenced to two to eight years in prison for his role in a break-in at the Bluestone Coal K2 Coal Preparation Plant near Burke Mountain, Wyoming County.

Hornsby pleaded guilty on August 9, 2023, to one count of conspiracy to commit a felony and one count of attempting to commit a felony.

The charges stem from a May 25, 2024, incident when Sergeant Tyler Sizemore of the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Department responded to a report of breaking and entering at the plant.

The investigation uncovered an attempted theft and significant property damage. Hornsby was later located by Sergeant Sizemore and admitted to his involvement.

Wyoming County Prosecutor Gregory Bishop highlighted the broader consequences of the crime.

“Commercial theft goes beyond the loss of property. The loss extends to financial impacts associated with salaries and production.”

Derek Laxton, Wyoming County Assistant Prosecutor, served as the lead prosecutor in the case.