Statement from Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Homeland Security Rob Cunningham

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Robert Cunningham, Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Homeland Security (WVDHS) issued the following statement today:

"The West Virginia Department of Homeland Security, in partnership with the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation, has been actively working with the West Virginia Fire Marshal, the West Virginia State Police and the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation (WVDCR) Criminal Investigation Unit, regarding the arrest of two individuals related to the fire on October 20, 2024, on Crestview Drive in Beckley, W.Va.

David W. Cole, 30, and Billy R. Workman Jr., 24, of Beckley, both employees of Southern Regional Jail and Correctional Facility, were employed by WVDCR at the time of their arrests. Today, however, they are no longer part of the organization and their employment has been terminated.

As this is an ongoing investigation and a personnel issue, we cannot share additional information at this time. It is crucial to acknowledge that anyone charged with a crime has the right to a complete legal process as outlined in the U.S. Constitution. The Department of Homeland Security is dedicated to ensuring public safety, building trust within the community and pursuing our mission in the state."