Southern Indiana Contractor Arrested for Theft

Following an investigation that began in December

Southern Indiana - Wednesday, January 10, 2024: Indiana State Police in Sellersburg arrested a heating and air contractor for theft following an investigation that began in December. 

Detective Travis Baker began an investigation in December after a homeowner reported she paid 49-year-old John Aaron McKinley of Floyds Knobs, Indiana, over $10,000 to repair her heating and air-conditioning system. McKinley is the owner of McKinley Heating and Air. During the investigation, Detective Baker learned the homeowner was allegedly advised her entire HVAC system needed to be replaced. He also learned McKinley removed the old system after requesting and receiving over $10,000 in payment; however, McKinley never returned to complete any work. Detective Baker also learned the homeowners were temporarily heating their house with a wood stove and expected the repairs to be made before cold temperatures set in.   

The investigation included interviews and a review of pertinent bank transactions. Detective Baker then forwarded all information gathered during the investigation to the Washington County Prosecutor's office for review and possible charges.  

On January 10, 2024, the Washington County Circuit Court issued a warrant for John McKinley's arrest. He was charged with Theft, a level 6 felony. Troopers located and arrested John McKinley and transported him to the Washington County Jail without incident.