Franklin -- May 5, 2026: Progress on the new Franklin High School project has faced a significant setback following a series of thefts totaling over $16,000 in stolen tools and equipment. The investigation into the missing resources has resulted in the arrest of two individuals, Chad Wesley Spates and Zane Carpenter, both of whom face multiple felony charges in Macon County.
The Franklin Police Department launched an investigation after contractors at the site reported that vital equipment, essential for the ongoing $100 million construction project, had been taken on April 2, 2026. While initial reports estimated lower figures, the total value of the stolen specialized tools and machinery has now been confirmed to exceed $16,000.
Charges and Court Proceedings
According to court records, Zane Carpenter faces several serious felony charges, including:
Two counts of breaking and entering
Two counts of larceny after breaking and entering
Two counts of possession of stolen property
Carpenter's bond has been set at $20,000, and he is scheduled to appear in the Macon County Courthouse on May 12, 2026.
Chad Wesley Spates was also taken into custody and charged in connection with the incident. His charges include:
Felony Larceny
Possession of Stolen Property
Authorities noted that the investigation remains active as they work to recover the remaining missing property.
Impact on Construction
The loss of over $16,000 in specialized equipment presents a dual challenge for project managers: the direct financial hit and the logistical downtime caused by missing essential gear. Construction on the state-of-the-art facility operates on a demanding schedule, and any diversion of resources can create ripple effects in the project's timeline.
Macon County school officials are currently working with law enforcement and the construction firms to bolster security at the site. Despite the disruption, officials remain committed to the completion of the new campus, which is set to be a flagship for modern education in Western North Carolina.