Scammer
Banned
PORT ST. JOHN --
A former Kennedy Space Center worker is accused of swiping space shuttle tiles during his tenure.
He could face up to a decade in prison for the theft.
Brevard County deputies said David Abbey, 50, sold some of the used heat resistant tiles for nearly $900 each on eBay. Deputies said he made more than $10,000 after selling the stolen tiles.
Abbey worked at KSC beginning in 2000. Agents said he took the tiles during the ten-year period he worked there.
Agents say NASA reported the possibility of the thefts to the Brevard County Sheriff's Office.
Investigators raided Abbey’s Birch Drive home two weeks ago. They said they found enough evidence for an arrest warrant.
“People should have more common sense,” said neighbor John Stout. “What's he thinking selling government surplus? What does he think is going to happen?
Abbey told investigators he and his co-workers didn't think stealing the tiles was a big deal because everyone was looking to take home some souvenirs, according to Florida Today.
Abbey is charged with one count of grand theft and one count of possessing stolen property. Each count is punishable by five years behind bars.
Abbey is out of jail on a $10,000 bond.
