Employee Stole Scrap Metal From Pennsylvania Prison

The maintenance manager at a state prison in eastern Pennsylvania has been arrested for allegedly stealing scrap metal from the prison between July 2012 and April 1.

Authorities say 56-year-old Pottsville resident Ronald D. Dermo is charged with misdemeanor counts of theft and receiving stolen property in connection with thefts from the state Correctional Institution in Frackville.

He surrendered Friday. He declined comment Wednesday when reached at his home. A message was left for his attorney.

Authorities allege Dermo stole scrap items from the prison in Ryan Township and took them to a scrap yard, where he sold them. Investigators say he told them he used the money to buy furniture for his daughter’s college apartment.

A spokesman for the prison said he couldn’t comment on Dermo’s employment status.