A Columbia Public Works employee has been arrested for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars in coins from parking meters. Columbia Police did not provide a specific dollar amount in their announcement.
CPD is seeking felony stealing charges against 39-year-old James Faup of Columbia. Criminal charges have not been been filed, at this time.
Columbia Police investigators say Faup allegedly removed coins from parking meters and exchanged them for paper currency for personal use. CPD says it received an anonymous tip this week that a person wearing a Columbia Public Works uniform was exchanging a large amount of coins at a local business.
CPD says Faup is no longer employed by the city. Columbia officials have released a statement that says the city is proactively reviewing internal processes and procedures.