Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld named chair of Washington-Baltimore HIDTARead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld has been named as chairperson of the Washington-Baltimore High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (W/B HIDTA) Executive Board and will lead efforts in the region to combat the trafficking of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other illicit substances.
The W/B HIDTA supports 43 drug task forces from Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and West Virginia. In 2022, these units collectively seized nearly nine thousand kilograms of drugs with a wholesale value of $107.5 million and disrupted or dismantled 134 criminal organizations. The W/B HIDTA also supports substance use prevention and treatment initiatives.
“I’m honored to serve as chair of this important group and I’ll use the opportunity to strengthen the response in the eastern United States to the threat posed by Mexican drug cartels,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld.
Ihlenfeld will lead an executive board that is responsible for assessing the drug trafficking threats found in the region; developing a strategy to address the threats; designing initiatives to implement the strategy; and proposing funding needed to carry out the initiatives.
W/B HIDTA Executive Director Tom Carr has worked with Ihlenfeld for over a decade. They regularly discuss strategies how best to respond to the dangers posed by illicit drugs.
“The Washington-Baltimore HIDTA is fortunate to have an experienced federal prosecutor like U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld to lead our executive board and to help identify solutions to the problems caused by drug trafficking in the region,” said Director Carr.
The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force and The Martinsburg Initiative - an evidence-based prevention program that focuses on aiding children in Berkeley County Schools – are both supported by W/B HIDTA funding.
Ihlenfeld previously served as Vice Chairperson and Budget Chair for the W/B HIDTA. He also has served as chairperson of the Appalachia HIDTA.
Michigan man admits to methamphetamine trafficking in MorgantownRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Warren, Michigan, man has admitted to transporting methamphetamine to the Morgantown area.
Myron Manning, 25, pled guilty today to a possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine charge. According to court documents, officers conducted a traffic stop in Morgantown, finding nearly three pounds of methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” 48 grams of heroin, and a loaded 9mm pistol in Manning’s possession. Officers also found digital scales, a small amount of marijuana, multiple cell phones and some cash.
Manning is facing up to 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Bridgeport man admits to taking nearly $650,000 in COVID Relief fundsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Bridgeport, West Virginia, man has admitted to accepting nearly $650,000 in fraudulent COVID-19 relief funding.
James Nolte, 52, pled guilty today to one count of wire fraud. Nolte admitted to improperly securing CARES Act Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for businesses he reportedly owned by falsely representing wages, staff, and tax returns. Nolte received $645,747 in fraudulent loans for PGO Veterans Services, PG Health, RJS Catering, and Dental Care Plus.
Nolte is facing up to 20 years in prison. He will be sentenced at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Anyone aware of COVID fraud can report it via email to [email protected], by telephone to 304-234-0100, or via regular mail to the U.S. Attorney, P.O. Box 591, Wheeling, WV 26003, Attn: COVID Fraud Unit.
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Two men sentenced for methamphetamine trafficking in West VirginiaRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men were sentenced today in separate cases for trafficking methamphetamine in Randolph and Hardy Counties.
William Thomas DeSantis, 32, of Akron, Ohio, will serve 10 years and 4 months in prison for transporting methamphetamine from Ohio to Randolph County, West Virginia. During a traffic stop, officers found nearly 600 grams of methamphetamine in magnetic storage boxes hidden throughout DeSantis’s vehicle. The investigation revealed that DeSantis was a supplier for several people in Elkins, West Virginia, transporting hundreds of grams of methamphetamine to be sold.
In a separate case, Scott Allen Greenwalt, 50, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 8 years in prison for drug trafficking and firearms violations. Investigators used a confidential informant on several occasions to purchase methamphetamine from Greenwalt in Hardy County. Officers executed a search warrant and found nearly 50 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded 9mm pistol in Greenwalt’s house.
The Mountain Region Drug Task Force investigated the DeSantis case. The Ohio State Highway Patrol assisted.
The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the Greenwalt case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted both cases on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
United States Attorney Ihlenfeld announces new domestic violence reduction initiativeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld and a team of state and federal partners announced a new domestic violence reduction strategy on Monday, along with the first round of indictments that resulted from it.
Ihlenfeld unveiled the Berkeley County Domestic Violence Reduction Initiative alongside officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; the Martinsburg Police Department; and the Eastern Panhandle Empowerment Center.
The initiative was formed in January to protect domestic violence victims, take dangerous criminals off the streets, and enhance community safety. The program focuses on prosecuting violent offenders, keeping firearms out of the hands of criminals, and conducting training for law enforcement. The agencies involved meet regularly to share intelligence, make charging decisions, and provide support to victims.
“Domestic abusers are some of the most dangerous individuals in our community,” said United States Attorney Ihlenfeld. “This new and innovative approach will make Berkeley County safer for everyone, and especially for victims of domestic violence.”
Multiple federal indictments were returned in May under the initiative, including the following:
- Paul Richard Tomlinson, 23, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was indicted on firearms, witness tampering, and interstate violations. According to court documents, Tomlinson had a protective order filed against him in Berkeley County. Tomlinson violated that order, having someone on his behalf contact the protected party, trying to persuade the victim to drop the protective order and claim ownership of a .22 caliber pistol that investigators say belongs to Tomlinson. He is prohibited from having firearms due to a prior conviction.
- Brian Michael Lewis, 42, of Levels, West Virginia, has been charged with two firearms charges involving eight firearms, two receivers, and ammunition. According to court documents, Lewis, who has previous convictions that prohibit firearms possession, was arrested after officers responded to a domestic violence call and found the various firearms, including an unregistered short-barrel rifle.
- Gabriel Ian Smith, 45, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, was charged with one firearms violation. Smith, who cannot have firearms because of a domestic battery conviction in Berkeley County, had a 9mm pistol and ammunition.
- Justin Scott Shaw, 34, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was indicted on a firearms charge for having a 9mm pistol and ammunition despite a domestic battery conviction in Berkeley County.
Investigators on the cases include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; the Martinsburg Police Department; and the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office. The Jefferson County Prosecutor’s Office and the Hampshire County Prosecutor’s Office assisted.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Ward, also with the Jefferson County Prosecutor’s Office, is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Youngstown man sentenced to 12 years for drug traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Youngstown, Ohio, man was sentenced today to more than 12 years in prison for supplying methamphetamine and fentanyl to northern West Virginia.
Kamron Eugene Miller, Sr., 36, will serve 152 months of incarceration for his role as a leader in a drug conspiracy. The investigation revealed that Miller supplied a co-conspirator nearly a kilogram of crystal methamphetamine along with 21 grams of fentanyl which was then redistributed in Hancock County. When agents searched Miller’s Youngstown residence, they found more than 300 grams of cocaine, 206 grams of fentanyl, a loaded assault rifle, a loaded pistol, and over $60,000 in cash. In total, agents seized more than $310,000 in cash during the investigation.
The Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration (Wheeling and Youngstown); and the Ohio State Highway Patrol investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Mahoning County, Ohio, Sheriff’s Office assisted.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
West Virginia man sentenced for COVID fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Wheeling, West Virginia, man was sentenced today to 10 months in prison after fraudulently obtaining loans made available during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dalton Haas, also known as Dalton Nassar, 27, pled guilty to wire fraud in February 2023. Haas admitted to making false statements about the gross revenues, the cost of goods sold, and the number of employees for the Lebanese Restaurant & Bakery, the Wheeling Wine Festival, the West Virginia Hockey League, and the Wheeling Hockey Association. Haas obtained a total of $20,000 in CARES Act funding as part of his scheme. He attempted to fraudulently obtain loans on three other occasions but was unsuccessful.
Upon his release from prison, Haas will be under the supervision of federal probation officers for three years. Haas paid restitution in full prior to sentencing.
The United States Sentencing Guidelines called for a range of punishment for Haas of between 4 and 10 months, based upon the amount of loss and his criminal history. The sentence imposed was at the highest end of the Guidelines.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Anyone who is aware of COVID fraud may report it via email to [email protected], by telephone to 304-234-0100, or via regular mail to the U.S. Attorney, P.O. Box 591, Wheeling, WV 26003, Attn: COVID Fraud Unit.
Florida man charged in multi-million dollar elder fraud schemeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Florida man has been indicted for exploiting an elderly Jefferson County resident with dementia and taking more than two million dollars from him.
Samuel Kristofer Bunner, age 50, of Spring Hill, Florida, has been charged with wire and bank fraud, identity theft and money laundering. According to the indictment, Bunner befriended the victim while they were both working at the American Legion in Charles Town. The victim had cognitive impairment and Bunner began assisting with his medical appointments. Bunner then accompanied the victim to a law firm, where the victim made Bunner his power of attorney and gave him the ability to control his financial accounts. Over a two-year period, Bunner enriched himself by selling the victim’s real estate, emptying investment and bank accounts, and opening a credit card in the victim’s name. Bunner and his wife purchased real estate, motor vehicles, and luxury items, along with taking vacations.
“This is a sad story about someone who worked hard his whole life, saved his money, and then when he began to suffer from cognitive decline, had everything stolen by an opportunist,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “We will continue to do everything we can to protect older West Virginians from schemes such as this.”
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and it is ongoing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Jefferson County Prosecutor’s Office, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of Florida and FBI-Tampa assisted with the matter.
If you know of an elderly person who has been the victim of financial fraud, please contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311) or send an email to [email protected].
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Ohio man sentenced to 15 years for methamphetamine traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – An Akron, Ohio, man was sentenced today to 188 months in prison for transporting hundreds of grams of crystal meth to be sold in Hancock County.
William E. Maddox, Jr., 53, pled guilty in January to possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine. Maddox was traveling from Akron to the Weirton area, transporting hundreds of grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” or “ice.” During a traffic stop, officers found more than 200 grams of ice, along with nearly 500 grams of marijuana, inside the vehicle.
The Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
West Virginia woman convicted of methamphetamine traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Bridgeport, West Virginia, woman has admitted to possessing more than 50 grams of crystal methamphetamine.
Courtney M. Oliverio, 42, pled guilty today to possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine. According to court documents, during a traffic stop in Harrison County Oliverio had nearly 60 grams of methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” and more than $3,000 cash. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, officers also found digital scales and other drug paraphernalia.
Oliverio is facing at least 10 years and up to life in prison. She is being held in the Central Regional Jail pending sentencing. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office and the Bridgeport Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
West Virginia man gets 15 years for role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Wheeling, West Virginia, man was sentenced today to more than 15 years in prison for his role in distributing controlled substances on behalf of the region’s most prominent drug trafficker.
Ronald Shaw, also known as “Fuzz,” 51, was ordered to serve 188 months in prison after having previously pled guilty to possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine. Shaw admitted to having nearly half of a kilogram of methamphetamine near Overbrook Playground in Wheeling. Shaw also possessed almost half of a kilogram of cocaine.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey considered evidence regarding Shaw’s involvement with the trafficking network led by Personne “Rico” McGhee. McGhee, who is presently under federal indictment, is alleged to have led an organization connected to the Sinaloa drug cartel in Mexico, as well as to drug dealers in Ohio and California.
“Ronald Shaw played a key role in distributing drugs on behalf of Rico McGhee,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “The reason the McGhee organization was successful was due to individuals like Mr. Shaw, who helped to redistribute narcotics shipped here from Mexico.”
The case was investigated by the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, which includes officers from the Wheeling Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Belmont County (OH) Sheriff’s Office and the Belmont County Prosecutor’s Office provided important assistance. The investigation was supported by the ATF, the Marshall County Drug Task Force, and the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, the Allegheny County (PA) Police, and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Read more about related cases here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/federal-indictment-cuts-major-source-west-virginia-drug-supply
This press release corrected the original version, updating the drug weight amount.
Elkins man admits to having large amount of methamphetamineRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – An Elkins, West Virginia, man has admitted to having more than 300 grams of crystal methamphetamine and a firearm.
Joshua Ervin Cave, 43, pled guilty today to possession and firearms charges. According to court documents, Cave had 338 grams of methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” and a hunting rifle found during search warrants executed at his home and a storage unit. Cave is prohibited from having firearms because of two prior domestic assault convictions in Randolph County Magistrate Court.
Cave is facing up to 20 years in prison for the drug charge and up to 10 years for the firearms charge. He is currently being held at the Tygart Valley Regional Jail. He will be sentenced at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the Mountain Region Drug Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
New Jersey man sentenced for role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Blackwood, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to 12 years in prison for being the supplier in a drug conspiracy that stretched from New Jersey to Maryland to West Virginia.
Aquilino Javier Lorenzo-Rivera, 39, previously pled guilty to distribution of fentanyl. Lorenzo-Rivera admitted that he distributed nearly 34 grams of acetyl fentanyl (synthetic fentanyl) and more than 241 grams of a fentanyl mixture.
During today’s sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh heard about Lorenzo-Rivera’s travels to and from the Eastern Panhandle to supply drugs to another dealer. During the investigation, officers found nearly 200 grams of fentanyl and nearly 300 grams of cocaine base that Lorenzo-Rivera had transported to a dealer in Harpers Ferry, as well as more than $12,000 in cash seized from a traffic stop. The judge discussed Lorenzo-Rivera’s continuous pattern of criminal conduct, which includes 14 felony convictions.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Ohio man sentenced for Wheeling traffic stop that yielded counterfeit fentanyl pills, methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Thornville, Ohio, man was sentenced to 9 years in prison today for having a large amount of methamphetamine on Wheeling Island.
Christopher W. Thomas, 33, pled guilty to a possession charge in May 2022. During a traffic stop of Thomas’s vehicle, officers found 79 grams of methamphetamine and more than 240 grams of fentanyl, some of which was in the form of counterfeit Xanax pills. Thomas also had other items to manufacture the pills, including a metal pill press with hydraulic jack, cutting agents and a portable mixer. Officers also recovered a loaded 9mm pistol, a box of ammunition, and nearly $5,000 cash.
The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; West Virginia State Police; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Two corrections officers charged with violating a prisoner’s civil rightsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two correctional officers from United States Penitentiary Hazelton have been charged with civil rights violations involving the assault of a prisoner.
Robert David Sims, 40, of Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, and Joshua David Sines, 38, of Friendsville, Maryland, were each charged with one count of deprivation of rights and one count of assault with serious bodily injury. According to the indictment, Sims and Sines, while employed by USP Hazelton in Preston County, struck an inmate in the face, head, arms, and torso, causing significant injuries.
If convicted, Sims and Sines each face up to 20 years in prison for the civil rights charge and up to 10 years for the assault charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The U.S. Department of Justice Office of Inspector General investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Barbour County man charged with firearms violationsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Philippi, West Virginia, man with a prior domestic violence conviction is facing federal firearms charges.
Ethan D. Delauder, 31, was indicted today for unlawful possession of a firearm and for possessing an unregistered firearm. According to court documents, West Virginia State Police conducted a traffic stop of Delauder during which a shotgun with an illegal shortened barrel was visible on the passenger seat. Delauder is prohibited from having firearms because of domestic violence conviction from Barbour County Magistrate Court in 2017.
If convicted, Delauder faces up to 10 years in prison for each charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Morgantown man and Detroit man sentenced for drug operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men have been sentenced today for working together to sell large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine in the Morgantown area.
Aaric Murray, 33, of Morgantown West Virginia, was sentenced today to 170 months in federal prison. Richard Kirkland Johnson, 26, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 147 months. Murray and Johnson were found guilty of multiple charges during a trial in September 2022.
According to trial testimony, officers were called to Murray’s home on reports of a hostage situation. Upon arrival, officers determined there wasn’t a threat but found evidence of a drug operation. A subsequent search of the home found crack cocaine, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and two firearms with ammunition. Murray and Johnson had thousands of dollars in cash during the initial search, as well as communications on their cell phones of recent drug deals.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh heard evidence today of Murray’s extensive criminal history, including more than 40 interactions with law enforcement since 2012.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley and Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Wellsburg man admits stealing $150,000 from volunteer fire departmentRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Wellsburg, West Virginia, man has admitted to stealing $150,000 from the volunteer fire department where he formerly served as treasurer.
Daniel Keener, 46, pled guilty in federal court today to one count of wire fraud. Keener admitted that he used his position as treasurer of the Bethany Pike Volunteer Fire Department to divert funds from the Department’s bank accounts for his personal use over a five-year period. Keener used the stolen funds to purchase concert tickets, make payments on personal credit cards, pay for a family member’s educational expenses, and to purchase jewelry.
“Mr. Keener abused the trust placed in him by his colleagues at the fire department and now he must pay the consequences,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld.
Keener is facing up to 20 years in federal prison, and he must make $150,000 in restitution. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated. The West Virginia State Auditor’s Office assisted.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Philadelphia man admits to operating a multi-state drug enterpriseRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, man has admitted to operating a multi-state organized drug trafficking business dubbed the “19th Street Enterprise.”
Christopher Arthur Jones, also known as “Smooth,” pled guilty today to a racketeering enterprise (RICO) conspiracy and fentanyl distribution charges. Jones, 38, was the leader of the organization, directing members of the enterprise to sell drugs, commit acts of violence, launder money, and commit fraud in West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. The business was based in Philadelphia, but Jones had drug houses in Martinsburg, West Virginia and elsewhere.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble heard testimony today that Jones ordered armed robberies at residences in West Virginia and Maryland to help fund his enterprise. The homeowners were targeted because of perceived wealth. The organization was selling an estimated 100 grams of fentanyl per week and laundering at least $500 per day from a house on Crooked Way in Martinsburg. Jones also committed COVID fraud, receiving COVID relief funds under false pretenses.
As a part of the plea agreement, Jones has agreed to forfeit any proceeds from the crimes, as well as his Philadelphia property, which was used as the stash house for his operation.
Jones is facing at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Department of Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Marshals Service; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the West Virginia Air National Guard investigated. The Eastern District of Pennsylvania U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Kent County Sheriff’s Office assisted.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Martinsburg woman admits to trafficking a teenagerRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia woman has admitted to trafficking a teenager to a Florida man.
Destiny Rebecca Somersall, age 41, pled guilty today to one count of sex trafficking of a child. Somersall sent photographs and videos of the minor to 75-year-old John Balch for cash and gifts. One of the videos included a second victim. Somersall later drove the teen to a hotel in Maryland for sexual contact with Balch for money on multiple occasions. Investigators found at least 60 cash transactions between Balch and Somersall over a period of two years totaling $13,725.
Balch has been indicted in the District of Maryland on related charges.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Maryland assisted.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
For more information on human trafficking, go to www.stophumantraffickingwv.org. To report a potential human trafficking crime, email [email protected] or call 304-234-0100.
United States Attorney expands civil rights efforts in 2023Read the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Civil rights enforcement and education will be expanded in West Virginia in 2023, to include proactive efforts to ensure that people with disabilities have a full and equal opportunity to vote.
United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced that his office has developed a formal plan pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure that public entities don’t discriminate against voters based upon disability. The ADA applies to all aspects of voting, to include registration, site selection, and the casting of ballots, whether on Election Day or during early voting.
“Voting is a hallmark of our democracy, and we want to make sure that no one is denied this fundamental right due to a disability,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld.
Ihlenfeld also announced that his office will host four community events this year to raise awareness about federal civil rights, with a special focus on the ADA, the Fair Housing Act, hate crimes, and environmental justice. These educational sessions will be held in Hancock, Ohio, Hampshire, and Harrison counties, with the first event scheduled for April 20, 2023, at 9 a.m. at the Millsop Community Center in Weirton.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay is the District’s Civil Rights Coordinator and is leading the community outreach efforts. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chris Prezioso, Jarod Douglas, and Max Nogay are also assisting with the initiative.
To learn more about the district’s civil rights work, or to report a civil rights violation, go to https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/civil-rights-program.
Harrison County man guilty of firearms and witness tampering chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Shinnston, West Virginia, man was found guilty this week of illegally having an assault rifle and tampering with a witness to cover up the crime.
Charles Raymond Wable, 62, was found guilty by a federal jury after a two-day trial. Wable, a person prohibited from having firearms because of prior drug convictions, was under supervision by the U.S. Probation Office. During a home check, officers found a loaded assault rifle hidden under his bed. During a hearing in federal court to revoke his probation, Wable had someone falsely testify about the ownership of the firearm.
Wable will be sentenced on August 2, 2023. He faces up to 10 years in prison for the firearms charge and faces up to 20 years for witness tampering. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Probation Office investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon Flower and Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Court Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Grant County residents sentenced to a combined 50 years for child pornRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Petersburg, West Virginia, residents have been sentenced for creating and distributing sexual images of a minor under the age of 12.
Christine Shook, age 34, was sentenced today to 240 months in prison. Jasper E. Shook, age 35, was sentenced in February to 365 months. Both defendants pleaded guilty in 2022 to child pornography charges.
Jasper Shook messaged an undercover FBI agent using the KIK app, bragging about sexual contact with a minor and sending sexually explicit images of the child. A search warrant was later executed at the Shook home, where officers seized electronic devices that contained child pornography, with some of the images also identifying Jasper Shook and Christine Shook.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley D. Crockett prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
West Virginia doctor charged with illegal prescribing, destroying evidenceRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A West Virginia doctor has been indicted for the unlawful distribution of controlled substances and for destroying evidence of his alleged crimes.
David Elwood Hess, 59, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, was indicted today on twenty-five counts of improper prescribing and one count of destroying records in a federal investigation. According to court documents, Hess wrote prescriptions for Adderall, Xanax, Oxycontin, and other controlled substances to individuals without a legitimate medical purpose and beyond the bounds of professional practice. The indictment also charges Hess with remotely wiping his iPhone after it had been seized by law enforcement.
“Adderall is the chemical cousin of methamphetamine and a very powerful stimulant,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “Given its high potential for misuse, medical practitioners must be cautious when prescribing it and when they are not, there will be consequences.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Businessman sentenced to prison for theft from Morgantown companyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A businessman from Pennsylvania was sentenced to 46 months in prison today for stealing $3.5 million from a Morgantown construction company.
Michael D. Allen, 60, of Irwin, Pennsylvania, pled guilty in November to wire fraud and money laundering. Allen, who had been the manager of Accelerated Construction Services, admitted that he used his position to divert $3.5 million in company funds for his own personal benefit.
Allen spent $154,000 on vehicles, including a 2020 Range Rover, a 1954 Chevrolet 3100 truck, and a classic car restoration. He purchased a 5.19 carat diamond ring for $113,250 and spent an estimated $19,000 on other jewelry, $18,000 of which was used to purchase a Breitling watch.
In addition to serving the prison sentence, Allen must pay $3.5 million in restitution to the company.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated. The FBI assisted in the investigation.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Maryland man charged with cyberstalking ex-girlfriendRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Hagerstown, Maryland man has been charged with cyberstalking after using social media to harass and intimidate his ex-girlfriend.
Derik Wayne Bowers, age 44, was indicted on one count of stalking by a federal grand jury in Martinsburg. According to court documents, Bowers harassed and intimidated his former girlfriend through text messages, phone calls, and via Facebook. In December 2022, he called the Morgan County victim 815 times during a 48-hour period. In addition, Bowers sent the victim thousands of harassing text messages over a several month period. Bowers also used social media posts to embarrass her and interfere with her livelihood.
“Cyberstalking is a pervasive problem that we treat very seriously in West Virginia,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “I encourage those who are being intimidated online and who suffer substantial emotional distress as a result to file a police report so that wrongdoers may be investigated and held to account.”
If convicted, Bowers faces up to five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Martinsburg residents charged in gun trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two West Virginia residents have been charged with the illegal purchase of firearms that were later used in violent crimes.
Nakita Ann Lake, age 33, and Gerald Anthony Tonsil, 31, both of Martinsburg, were indicted today on multiple federal gun charges, to include a conspiracy to transfer firearms to prohibited persons. According to court documents, the defendants visited firearms dealers in Berkeley County where Tonsil provided Lake with cash to purchase guns. Tonsil is prohibited from purchasing and owning firearms because of a prior felony and thus engaged the help of Lake. The investigation revealed that Tonsil sold some of the firearms, two of which were recovered in shooting incidents in New York.
“Gun traffickers endanger the lives of people in West Virginia and throughout the country,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “My office will continue to pursue those who profit from putting guns in the hands of those who use them for violence.”
Lake is charged with a total of four counts and Tonsil faces seven counts. If convicted, each faces up to five years in prison for the conspiracy count and up to 10 years on each remaining count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two charged with stealing $650,000 from Morgantown medical practiceRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – The former chief operating officer of a Morgantown medical practice and one of its physicians have been charged with stealing more than $650,000 from their employer.
Francisco Ortiz, age 48, of Vacaville, California, and James Brooks Mersing, 35, of Morgantown, have been indicted on charges of defrauding Wedgewood Physicians, Inc. According to the indictment, Ortiz used his position as COO to divert funds over a three-year period for his personal benefit and for the benefit of Mersing, a physician formerly employed by Wedgewood.
Ortiz is alleged to have used the funds to pay for personal travel, home improvements, and various items from Amazon, among other things. Ortiz is also alleged to have caused unauthorized bonuses to be paid to Mersing, who then returned a portion of the money to Ortiz as a kickback.
“White-collar crime costs the United States hundreds of billions of dollars each year,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “The Department of Justice will continue to pursue white-collar wrongdoers and hold them accountable for their misconduct.”
Ortiz faces thirty-one counts of bank fraud and Mersing faces eleven counts. Each count carries a penalty of up to thirty years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and each defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Dental office employees charged with COVID unemployment fraudRead the Press Release
MORGANTOWN, WEST VIRGINIA – Two people from the same Morgantown dental office have been indicted for fraudulently collecting nearly $30,000 in COVID-related unemployment benefits.
Amanda J. Kincell, 42, of Fairview, West Virginia, and Casey Fike, 39, of Morgantown, were charged today by a federal grand jury with multiple counts of wire fraud. According to the indictments, Kincell and Fike filed for unemployment in March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the DeVito Dental office to temporarily close. In May 2020, Kincell and Fike returned to a regular work schedule at Devito but continued to request and receive unemployment benefits. Kincell is accused of improperly accepting more than forty payments totaling $18,350. Fike is alleged to have accepted more than twenty improper payments totaling $10,388.
Kincell faces eleven counts of wire fraud while Fike faces six counts. Each count carries a penalty of up to twenty years in prison. If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine the sentence after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
WorkForce West Virginia investigated the cases. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
“We continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to methodically review every instance where COVID fraud is suspected, whether it’s related to unemployment benefits, paycheck protection loans, or economic injury disaster loans,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “I appreciate the tips provided by the public and encourage their continued submission.”
Anyone aware of COVID fraud should report it via email to [email protected], by telephone to 304-234-0100, or via regular mail to the U.S. Attorney, P.O. Box 591, Wheeling, WV 26003, Attn: COVID Fraud Unit.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Career criminal sentenced to 20 years in federal prisonRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – An Ohio man was sentenced to 20 years in prison after being convicted of felony charges for the third time.
Dallas Michael Acoff, age 34, was convicted in October 2022 of five federal drug distribution counts. These new convictions were in addition to Acoff’s prior convictions for wanton endangerment with a firearm and attempted murder in connection with a homicide in Wheeling in 2015.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey heard evidence of Acoff’s prior criminal history during yesterday’s sentencing hearing as well as the facts of his most recent convictions. According to court records, Acoff sold cocaine near Fulton Playground in August 2021. Then, in February 2022, Wheeling Police attempted a traffic stop on Acoff’s vehicle on Wheeling Island. Acoff fled, first by car and then on foot, before being apprehended with possession of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine.
After considering the evidence presented, Judge Bailey imposed a sentence of 240 months.
“The residents of Ohio County are safer now that a violent, career criminal is going away for the next two decades,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force and the Wheeling Police Department deserve praise for their excellent work in this matter.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Wheeling man gets 16 years for cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Wheeling, West Virginia man was sentenced to more than 16 years in prison today after trafficking cocaine while on federal probation.
Christopher Park, age 51, was sentenced to 198 months for possessing cocaine with the intent to deliver and for violating his supervised release. According to court documents, in May 2022 agents working parcel interdiction identified a package from Phoenix, Arizona containing nearly a kilogram of cocaine meant to be delivered to a Wheeling home. Further investigation connected the package to Park and agents obtained a search warrant for his home, where they seized an additional kilogram of cocaine. Agents also recovered $4,800 in cash.
The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Wheeling Police Department; and the Belmont County, Ohio Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
West Virginia man faces COVID fraud charges after claiming lost earnings while incarceratedRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A West Virginia man has been indicted on wire fraud charges after obtaining COVID relief money by claiming he was operating a food truck when he was actually in federal prison.
Anton Matthews, age 39, of Wheeling, has been charged with wire fraud after obtaining nearly $50,000 in CARES Act loans after misrepresenting his income and occupation. According to court documents, Matthews submitted a loan application in which he claimed to have established a food truck business in January 2019 and to have earned $103,000 in gross income in 2020. However, Matthews was in federal prison from November 2016 until October 2020, followed by a period of home confinement until March 2021.
“We will continue to aggressively pursue criminals who stole relief money that was meant to help Americans,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “Mr. Matthews’ conduct was particularly brazen, but he will be held to account thanks to the excellent work of the FBI.”
On the same day COVID fraud charges were filed against him, Matthews was also indicted for drug trafficking. The drug case alleges that Matthews conspired with others to distribute cocaine both inside and outside of the Third Alarm Bar on Wheeling Island in Ohio County last fall. Matthews faces a total of four cocaine distribution charges.
Matthews is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennie Conklin and Shawn Adkins are representing the government.
The fraud investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The drug investigation was conducted by the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, which includes officers from the Wheeling Police Department, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, the West Virginia State Police, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Federal indictment cuts off major source of West Virginia drug supplyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A sophisticated drug trafficking network that served as one of the largest suppliers of illicit substances to West Virginia has been dismantled by a federal indictment returned this week against individuals from Ohio, California, and Mexico.
Juan Carlos Magana, 41, of Sinaloa, Mexico, and Personne “Rico” McGhee, age 52, of Bellaire, Ohio, were charged Tuesday with conspiring to distribute large quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine. According to court documents, Magana coordinated with McGhee and others to have drugs shipped from the Southwest border to Ohio via tractor trailer. In return, McGhee made large cash payments to individuals who flew from California to the Pittsburgh International Airport, picked up the money, and then promptly boarded outbound flights. McGhee utilized a network of redistributors to sell the controlled substances in eastern Ohio and northern West Virginia, in Weirton, Wheeling, Morgantown, Fairmont and Clarksburg.
At the time of McGhee’s arrest in October 2022, agents recovered approximately 75 pounds of cocaine, 19 pounds of methamphetamine, and nearly 5 pounds of fentanyl from his home. Simultaneous with McGhee’s apprehension, arrests and searches occurred at the airport in Pittsburgh, and at homes and businesses in West Virginia and Ohio.
In addition to the seizure of drugs, agents recovered $295,038 in cash and five firearms.
“Rico McGhee was the most notorious drug dealer in the region and Juan Magana was his primary supplier,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “Due to the tremendous efforts of our investigators, one of the greatest sources of illicit drugs to West Virginia has been shut down.”
The following people were also charged in Tuesday’s conspiracy indictment:
- Christopher Jason Kirk, 42, of Tracy, CA;
- Justin Dwayne Martin, 34, of San Diego, CA;
- Andres Dominguez, 25, of San Diego, CA;
- Roger Allen Woods, II, 48, of Bellaire, OH;
- Zachary Tyler Menough, 31, of Shadyside, OH; and
- Sherman L. Griffin, 45, of Martins Ferry, OH.
Others involved in the McGhee network who were charged federally prior to this week include:
- Ronald Shaw, 51, of Wheeling, WV (Methamphetamine distribution);
- Jaron Wells, 36, of Wheeling, WV (Fentanyl distribution);
- Rocco Pandoli, 34, of Wheeling, WV (Cocaine distribution);
- Ebony Miranda Webb, 34, of Wheeling (Cocaine distribution); and
- Chellsie S. Boyer, 32, of Weirton (Methamphetamine distribution).
Motor vehicles used in furtherance of the conspiracy have been seized and will be subject to forfeiture, to include a GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Tahoe, a Polaris Slingshot, a Mercedes G-Class 450, a Bentley Continental, a BMW 535, a Cadillac XTS, a Chevrolet Cruze, a Buick Lacrosse, a Nissan Sentra, a Freightliner motor home, and an Acura.
Eleven parcels of real estate, five handguns, and three pieces of jewelry are also subject to forfeiture, along with the aforementioned U.S. currency.
Each defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law. The potential penalties will vary for each defendant and depend upon the quantity of drugs attributed to each and their criminal history, if any.
Several of those charged remain incarcerated, including McGhee, Kirk, Martin, Dominguez, Griffin, Shaw, and Wells.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is representing the government.
The case was investigated by the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, which includes officers from the Wheeling Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Belmont County (OH) Sheriff’s Office and the Belmont County Prosecutor’s Office provided important assistance.
The investigation was supported by the ATF, the Marshall County Drug Task Force, and the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, the Allegheny County (PA) Police, and the U.S. Marshals Service.
New prosecutor added to U.S. Attorney’s Office in MartinsburgRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA — A new prosecutor has joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office to assist with the increasing criminal caseload in the Eastern Panhandle.
United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced the addition of Daniel Salem to his Martinsburg office. Salem has been a prosecutor for nine years, first with Harford County (MD), then with the Baltimore City State’s Attorney, and finally with the Maryland Office of the Attorney General. He handled a heavy caseload of homicides, drug trafficking, and organized crime, and led wiretap investigations in collaboration with the Mid-Atlantic OCDETF Task Force.
“Dan Salem is a tremendous addition to the Martinsburg team,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “His experience in Maryland handling violent crime and drug trafficking cases allows him to step right in and assist with our busy criminal docket. I’ll continue to add Federal resources in the Eastern Panhandle to meet the threat and protect the community.”
Salem is an honors graduate of the Fordham University School of Law.
Domestic violence offender indicted for possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Hampshire County man with a prior conviction for domestic violence has been indicted for illegally possessing nine firearms.
Jason Lee Gordon of Rio, West Virginia, has been charged with being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, in April 2022, law enforcement officers responded to a domestic incident involving Gordon and subsequently observed that he had driven his automobile into a ditch. Gordon was arrested for driving under the influence and officers discovered nine guns and assorted ammunition in his automobile. One of the weapons was a ghost gun, or a privately manufactured firearm, while the other eight firearms were conventionally made.
It is alleged that Gordon, age 36, has a prior conviction from Mineral County and that prohibits him from possessing firearms. He is currently being detained in the Eastern Regional Jail. He will be arraigned in federal court on February 2.
“The prosecution of domestic abusers with guns continues to be a priority for my office,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “Every case like this that we bring makes the community safer, not only for victims but also for the law enforcement officers who respond to domestic calls.”
The case is being investigated by the ATF, the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hardy County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Eleanor F. Hurney, Assistant U.S. Attorney.
An indictment is merely an accusation and Gordon is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Reliance Laboratories manager admits to lying about testing public waterRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – The co-owner and manager of Reliance Laboratories, Inc., in Bridgeport, West Virginia, has admitted to violating the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Clean Water Act.
According to court documents, Tenley Megan Miller, 42, of Bridgeport, was the owner of Reliance Laboratories, Inc., a company that purportedly tested public drinking water samples submitted to it pursuant to the Safe Drinking Water Act. In May 2021, the City of Martinsburg sent water samples to Miller’s laboratory for testing and Miller reported that she tested the samples and found them to be safe. Investigators then discovered that Miller did not test the samples because her laboratory equipment was not operational. The City of Martinsburg unwittingly reported the false test results to the State of West Virginia pursuant to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
Miller pleaded guilty today to making a false representation in a matter within the jurisdiction of the Environmental Protection Agency. She faces up to five years in prison and a fine of no more than $250,000.
“The defendant in this case knowingly submitted falsified water analysis results, jeopardizing the health and safety of the impacted communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Nic Evans of EPA's Office of Inspector General. “Today’s guilty plea demonstrates the Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspector General’s commitment to holding accountable those who attempt to undermine the laws designed to protect the safety of the public’s drinking water supply.”
“The defendant in this case had knowingly falsified vital analysis results jeopardizing drinking and wastewater operations.” Said Acting Special Agent in Charge Richard Conrad of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Mid Central Area Branch, Chicago, IL. “The defendant will be held accountable for their actions because they placed several communities and businesses at risk.”
The Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspector General and the Environmental Protection Agency Criminal Investigations Department investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Georgia man sentenced for drug distribution resulting in deathRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Cartersville, Georgia, man was sentenced today to federal prison for his role in a drug trafficking operation and the dismemberment of the body of a Fairmont woman to conceal her overdose death.
Seddrick Banks, age 30, was sentenced to 50 years in prison. During the June 2021 trial, the jury heard testimony that Banks trafficked and distributed more than 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, as well as cocaine hydrochloride and fentanyl, in Marion County and elsewhere. He would travel from Georgia to West Virginia, trafficking the drugs from different motel and hotel rooms and other locations. After a fentanyl overdose in a motel in Lewis County on August 9, 2018, Banks and a co-conspirator took the body of 20-year-old Courtney Dubois to Georgia, where they dismembered her and disposed of her body at a landfill.
The Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Three Rivers Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force; the West Virginia State Police; The Bartow County, Georgia, Sheriff’s Office; the FBI in Rome, Georgia; and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon S. Flower and Andrew M. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Pennsylvania man sentenced for traveling across state lines to engage in sex with a minorRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Monessen, Pennsylvania, man was sentenced today to 97 months in federal prison for traveling from his home to have sex with a child from Bridgeport, West Virginia.
According to court documents, Mark Sassak, Jr., age 38, began talking with whom he believed to be a 15-year-old female through a social media app. That conversation continued through text messages on his cell phone for several weeks. Sassak then asked for an in-person meeting to have sex with the 15-year-old. Sassak drove from his home in Pennsylvania to a location in Bridgeport, West Virginia in October 2020 for said meeting, where law enforcement arrested him. When a search of Sassak’s cell phone was done, officers found multiple chats with suspected minors and child pornographic videos.
After a three-day trial in December 2021, Sassak was found guilty of one count of “Travel to Engage in Sexual Activity with a Minor” and one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.”
The Bridgeport Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Perri and Jennifer Conklin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Fentanyl traffickers admit guilt, forfeit more than $200,000Read the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Cleveland man and a Wheeling woman pled guilty today to fentanyl trafficking charges, admitting that they conspired to distribute significant quantities of the lethal drug.
Solomon Eli Watters, 27, of Cleveland, and Chelsea Marion Banks, 26, of Wheeling, appeared in federal court today and admitted to a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine base. According to the evidence presented, Watters was stopped by the Wheeling Police Department in February 2022 during which officers executed a search warrant on an Audi A7 that he was driving. During the search, officers located $3,556 in cash and a Walther .380 caliber pistol, which had been reported stolen. Officers then executed a search warrant at a residence shared by Watters and Banks in Wheeling wherein they located two more pistols, ammunition, digital scales, and cocaine base.
Additional search warrants were obtained for storage units located in Washington, Pennsylvania, rented by Banks. The searches yielded 1.26 kilograms of fentanyl and an additional $208,860 in cash.
“Fentanyl continues to be the greatest threat to public safety facing the Northern Panhandle,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “By seizing such a large quantity of the drug, the officers in this case prevented potential overdoses and removed a major distributor from the supply chain.”
In addition to the firearms and ammunition, $212,416 in United States currency and the Audi A7 will be forfeited.
Watters faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. Banks faces up to 20 years in prison. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Wheeling Police Department; the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Pennsylvania State Police investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Preston County man guilty of keeping a drug house for a Mexico to West Virginia drug operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Bruceton Mills, West Virginia man was found guilty of his role in a methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation that spanned from Mexico to Monongalia County.
Greg Snider, 63, was found guilty by a federal jury after a four-day trial. During trial, prosecutors explained that Snider used his residence in Bruceton Mills as a hub for drug distribution and rented vehicles and hotel rooms to assist with the illegal activity.
Snider faces up to 20 years in prison for each of the two counts of which he was convicted. He will be sentenced at a later date. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The FBI's Northern West Virginia Drug Task Force in partnership with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The Task Forces have members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Monongalia County Sheriff's Office; and the Morgantown, WVU, Granville and Star City Police Departments. The investigation was also assisted by the following law enforcement partners: the Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office; the FBI in Houston, Texas; the Houston Police Department's Multi Agency Gang Initiative; the United States Postal Inspection Service in Houston; and the FBI and DEA in Los Angeles, California.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda Wesley and Christopher Bauer prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/25-people-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation-spanned-several-states
Baltimore fentanyl organizations shut down by federal indictmentsRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Baltimore-based drug trafficking organizations that supplied large amounts of fentanyl to West Virginia and caused at least two deaths have been dismantled by separate federal indictments that were unsealed today.
Thirty-four people from Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia were indicted on charges related to the sale of fentanyl, heroin and other drugs in Hampshire County and Mineral County. The drugs distributed led to a spike in overdoses in the region, both fatal and non-fatal. Much of the fentanyl had high levels of purity and had a purple tint to distinguish it from drugs sold by competitors.
In the first indictment, Kentrel Anthony Rollins, also known as “T-Rock,” age 30, of Baltimore, Maryland is alleged to be the leader of a fentanyl distribution operation in Hampshire County and elsewhere from January 2020 to October 2021. Court documents show that in addition to the sale of drugs, there was firearms trafficking and the trading of guns for drugs. Many of the firearms were acquired by a straw purchaser on behalf of the organization. Twelve people are charged in this matter, which also includes the alleged trafficking of heroin, methamphetamine and cocaine.
In the second indictment, Sean Jarred Davis, age 31, also of Baltimore, is alleged to be the leader of a conspiracy to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl, as well as heroin, in Hampshire County and elsewhere from February 2021 to January 2023. A total of twenty-two individuals are charged in the case.
“Fentanyl continues to be the number one threat to public safety in the region and much of it flows here from Baltimore,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “The investigators are to be commended for their outstanding work in identifying the sources of supply and halting their operations.”
The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, led the investigations. The Task Force consists of members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the West Virginia State Police, the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office, the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, the Hardy County Sheriff’s Office, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, and the Keyser Police Department. The Hampshire County Prosecutor’s Office assisted.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
List of defendants
New prosecutor to lead civil rights enforcement in West VirginiaRead the Press Release
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay and U.S. Attorney William IhlenfeldWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA — Civil rights enforcement will be the focus of the newest prosecutor in the United States Attorney’s Office.
U.S. Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced today that Carly Nogay has been hired to lead civil rights investigations, to include hate crimes, disability and housing rights violations, and infractions of laws that prohibit discrimination based upon race, color, national origin, sex, and religion.
“I’m excited to have Carly Nogay on our team,” said Ihlenfeld. “She is an experienced litigator with outstanding academic credentials and a strong desire to serve the public. Her leadership on civil rights matters will help to make our communities safer and stronger.”
Nogay comes from the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office in Pittsburgh where she handled a busy docket of violent crime and firearms cases. Prior to her work in Pittsburgh, she served as law clerk for Judge Valarie Costanzo of Washington County.
Nogay graduated with honors from both Duquesne University and the West Virginia University College of Law.
Doddridge County man who engaged in shootout with police indicted on federal gun chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Doddridge County, West Virginia, man was indicted on federal firearm charges after engaging in a shootout with law enforcement last spring.
Richard Edward America, III, age 45, of Salem, was charged yesterday by a Clarksburg grand jury with illegally possessing a small arsenal of weapons despite having a prior conviction for domestic violence. He was also indicted for possessing silencers that were unregistered and lacked serial numbers as required by law.
According to court documents, America fired shots at officers who were attempting to execute a search warrant at his house on May 5, 2022. Officers were there because they suspected that America had firearms on his property despite his prior conviction. America fled the scene but was later apprehended. Officers reported finding eleven firearms, two silencers, and assorted ammunition. Among the firearms recovered, officers seized an assault-style rifle in the area near where America fired shots at law enforcement.
“Oftentimes the most dangerous individuals encountered by law enforcement are those with histories of domestic violence,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “We will continue to work with our state and local partners to bring federal charges whenever possible against gun-carrying domestic abusers.”
America is being held in the North Central Regional Jail and will appear in federal court on the charges in the near future.
The investigation was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the West Virginia State Police; the Doddridge County Sheriff’s Office; and the Salem Police Department.
The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Wagner for the government.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Hagerstown man admits to role in international drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Hagerstown, Maryland man has admitted to his role in an expansive drug trafficking conspiracy that spanned several states.
According to court documents, Daniel Inoa-Rodriguez, also known as “Danny,” 23, was heard on wiretap phone calls, talking with other known defendants about drug deliveries. One of the conversations revolved around $30,000 in drug proceeds and what to do with the cash just before Inoa-Rodriguez planned to travel to the Dominican Republic to deliver the money. Because of the intercepted communications, agents were able to seize the cash before he successfully boarded the plane at JFK Airport in March 2021. Court documents also reveal that Inoa-Rodriguez was in the back area of Top 3 Sources, a business in Hagerstown and a target in this investigation, during multiple drug transactions. The crimes occurred from August 2020 to June 2021 in Berkeley County and elsewhere.
Inoa-Rodriguez pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine Base, and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Inoa-Rodriguez faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The FBI; U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; The Drug Enforcement Administration; the West Virginia Air National Guard, the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative (agencies included are the West Virginia State Police, Berkeley County Sheriff’s Department, Jefferson County Sherriff’s Department, Ranson Police Department, Charles Town Police Department, and Martinsburg City Police Department); West Virginia State Police; Customs and Border Protection; the Hagerstown Police Department; the National Resources Police Department; FBI-New York Safe Streets Task Force; the New York Police Department; the New Jersey State Police; the Washington County (Maryland) Drug Task Force; the Maryland State Police; the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland; and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/34-indicted-expansive-drug-trafficking-operation
Upshur County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Bo D. Beckner, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Beckner, 42, pleaded guilty in June 2022 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Beckner, a person prohibited from having firearms because of prior convictions, admitted to having a 12-guage shotgun in April 2021 in Upshur County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and West Virginia State Police investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Hardy County woman admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Tara Lynn Crawford, of Wardensville, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Crawford, 40, pleaded guilty today o one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Crawford, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of prior felony convictions, admitted to having a .22 caliber rifle in October 2020 in Hardy County.
Crawford faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Berkeley County man admits to role in drug trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eliseo Jerome Rozas, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Rozas, 44, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Device.” Rozas admitted to using a phone to help distribute cocaine base in November 2020 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Marion County man sentenced for his role in a drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin Paul Thompson, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Thompson, 38, pleaded guilty in June 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Thompson admitted to selling methamphetamine near a public housing facility in June 2019 in Marion County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force and the Fairmont Police Department investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/west-virginia-and-detroit-residents-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation
Hancock County man indicted in international drug operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Hancock County man has been charged with acquiring more than 50,000 pills from Europe for redistribution in the United States.
United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced today that Thomas O. McGowan, age 50, has been indicted on federal drug charges after an investigation revealed that he had received shipments from Bulgaria containing large amounts of Schedule II and Schedule IV controlled substances. The shipments to McGowan were concealed in large spools of yarn to avoid detection.
After the packages were delivered, agents recovered 58,498 pills from McGowan’s New Cumberland residence and learned that he had been repackaging the pills into quantities of either 90 or 180 for sale. The substances seized include Diazepam, Lorazepam, Tapentadol and Zolpidem. McGowan faces a total for four charges, each alleging that he possessed a controlled substance with the intent to deliver.
“U.S. Custom and Border agents are to be commended for identifying a suspicious inbound international parcel and then quickly coordinating with agents in West Virginia to make an arrest,” said United States Attorney Ihlenfeld. “These collaborative efforts disrupted a sophisticated operation and prevented the diversion of powerful and addictive medication.”
The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, the Wheeling Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, and the Metro Drug Enforcement Network Team.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Detroit man sentenced to 12 years for his role in a drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin Lawrence Jarrett, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 151 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Jarrett, also known as “Six,” 32, pleaded guilty in July 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Five Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Jarrett admitted to distributing more than five grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” and “ice,” in in august 2019 in Marion County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.