Prosecutors say an Alcoa plant worker in Texas who stole tools and parts then resold the items faces up to 20 years in prison for the $1 million scam.
Jack Kennedy of Houston pleaded guilty Friday to wire fraud. The 56-year-old Kennedy remains free on bond pending sentencing in federal court in Victoria.
Prosecutors say Kennedy worked for Alcoa World Alumina LLC in Point Comfort, dealing with inventory and ordering supplies. The fraud ran from 2008 through late 2011. Kennedy was arrested in 2014.
Investigators say Kennedy sold the stolen equipment at a discount to a supply and salvage company in Tonawanda, New York, then shipped the items. Payments were mailed to Kennedy's home.
Prosecutors have said there was no immediate evidence of criminal wrongdoing by the New York company.
