Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Ohio man admits to soliciting child pornography from 9-year-old Wetzel County victimRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Wolford, of Cadiz, Ohio, has admitted to a child pornography charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Wolford, 25, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Solicitation of Child Pornography.” Wolford admitted to reaching out to a 9-year-old from Wetzel County and requesting inappropriate pictures and live-stream videos from the victim. The crime took place in July and August 2021.
Wolford faces at least five and up to 20 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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office investigated. The Moundsville Police Department, the Harrison County, Ohio, Sheriff’s Office, and the Cadiz, Ohio, Police Department assisted.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Former corrections officer sentenced for distributing drugs inside jailRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Quinn, a former corrections officer at the North Central Regional Jail (NCRJ) in Greenwood, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day of incarceration for selling drugs to inmates, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Quinn, of Marietta, Ohio, 28, pleaded guilty in October 2022 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Buprenorphine.” Quinn admitted to delivering methamphetamine and buprenorphine, as well as other contraband, to inmates at the NCRJ from September 2020 to February 2021.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Law enforcement, public servants honored by U.S. AttorneyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Twenty law enforcement officers and public servants from across the Northern District of West Virginia were recognized today for their outstanding work by United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld.
The U.S. Attorney Awards are given annually to honor exceptionalism in criminal investigations and community service. This year’s ceremony was held at the United States Courthouse in Clarksburg.
Outstanding Financial Crime Investigation
Special Agent Jim Rogers and Operational Support Technician Dottie Pugh, both of the FBI, and Sgt. David Simmons, of the West Virginia State Police, were honored for their work in U.S. v. Phillip W. Conley. Conley defrauded West Virginia churches, pastors, and others of nearly $5 million by persuading victims to invest in false ventures such as student housing construction, high-yield fixed income securities, oil and gas technology, mineral rights, and timber leasing. He was sentenced to 87 months in prison.
Outstanding Investigative Effort
Special Agent in Charge Colin Davis and Resident Agent in Charge Keith Vereb, of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, and Special Agent Ashley Archibald, FBI, were honored for their efforts in the case of U.S. v. Reta Mays. Mays, a nursing assistant, administered lethal doses of unprescribed insulin to eight patients at the VA hospital in Clarksburg. Mays entered pleas of guilty to seven counts of second-degree murder and one count of assault with intent to commit murder and was sentenced to seven terms of life imprisonment plus 20 years.
Outstanding Firearms Investigation
Special Agent Mark McNeal and Special Agent Troy Jeffers, FBI; Special Agent Eric Orta, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and Inspector Ryan Amstone, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, were honored for their work in U.S. v. Timothy John Watson. Watson produced devices that converted firearms into fully automatic weapons and sold them to followers of the Boogaloo Movement. Watson was convicted and sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment.
Outstanding National Security Investigation
Special Agent Justin Van Trump and Special Agent Peter Olinits of the FBI, and Special Agent John Nocella, of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, were honored for their work on U.S. v. Jonathan and Diana Toebbe. The investigation revealed that Jonathan Toebbe, who was an engineer with the U.S. Navy, stole restricted data related to the nuclear submarine program and attempted to sell it to another country. Mr. Toebbe was convicted and sentenced to 19 years, 4 months. Mrs. Toebbe – who conspired with her husband - was sentenced to 21 years, 10 months.
Outstanding Firearms Conspiracy Investigation
Special Agent Seth Cox of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force were honored for the case of U.S. v. Greenfield, in which the defendant recruited multiple straw purchasers in the Northern District of West Virginia to purchase firearms that were later trafficked to Washington, D.C.
Outstanding Drug Investigation
Task Force Officer Jeremy Jenkins of the Mountain Lakes Drug Task Force was honored for his work in U.S. v. Waitman Frederick in which he led an investigation into methamphetamine distribution in Glenville, Gilmer County. The efforts of TFO Jenkins led to an indictment against 11 defendants, each of whom was convicted.
Outstanding Financial Fraud Investigation
Corporal. Don Wolford of the West Virginia State Police was honored for his work in the case of U.S. v. Bradley Glaspell in which a contractor defrauded seventy people in West Virginia and Pennsylvania for total loss to the victims of more than $600,000. Glaspell was convicted and sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Outstanding Violent Crime Investigation
Special Agent Jared Newman, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives was honored for his work in U.S. v. Vickers and Oliverio in which the defendants were convicted of an attempted carjacking. Oliverio was sentenced to 121 months in prison and Vickers to 104 months.
Outstanding Drug Task Force
The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force was honored for its exceptional investigative work and community outreach efforts. The Task Force was instrumental in the prosecution of U.S. v. Luna, a case involving money laundering and the distribution of large amounts of heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine hydrochloride. The drug trafficking organization operated appliance stores in Hagerstown, Maryland and the Dominican Republic as a mechanism to launder drug proceeds.
Outstanding Youth Advocate
Jessica Watt Dougherty was honored for her unwavering care and empathy for the students at Madison Elementary School in Wheeling.
Outstanding Community Drug Prevention
The Monongalia County Quick Response Team was honored for its innovative efforts to prevent drug overdose deaths and help those struggling with substance abuse disorder to receive the help they need to get well.
Columbus man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Quintae L. Stubbs, of Columbus, Ohio, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Stubbs, 31, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Stubbs, a person prohibited from having firearms because of prior convictions, admitted to having a 9mm pistol in July 2022 in Ohio County.
Stubbs faces up to 15 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 Clayton J. Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Hardy County man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Angel Luis Martinez-Rodriguez, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 100 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Martinez-Rodriguez, 38, pleaded guilty in May 2022 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine-Aiding and Abetting.” Martinez-Rodriguez admitted to having cocaine in August 2021 in Hardy County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen. D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the United States Postal Inspection Service investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Taylor County woman admits to role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kayla Marie Cline, of Flemington, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in a drug trafficking operation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Cline, 31, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fifty Grams or more of Methamphetamine.” Cline admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” and “ice,” in April 2022 in Taylor County.
Cline faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $10 million. 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio man sentenced to decade in prison for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Andre Duana Bundy, of Youngstown, Ohio, was sentenced this week to 121 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Bundy, 39, pleaded guilty in March 2022 to one count of “Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Bundy admitted to selling 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in August 2021 in Hancock County.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration Wheeling; the Drug Enforcement Administration Youngstown; and the Ohio Highway Patrol investigated. 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 in the investigation.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Maryland man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Paul David Fairburn, of Hagerstown, Maryland, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Fairburn, 27, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Heroin and Cocaine Base.” Fairburn admitted to working with others to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine hydrochloride from August 2020 to June 2021 in Berkeley County and elsewhere. The combined drug weight was between 40 and 60 kilograms.
Fairburn 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Brooke County man sentenced for failure to register chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher J. Schragl, of Follansbee, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months of incarceration for failing to update his sex offender registry, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Schragl, 46, pleaded guilty in June 2022 to one count of “Failure to Register.” Schragl, a person required to register as a sex offender, failed to update his registration from May to December to 2021 in the Northern District of West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service, West Virginia State Police, Texas Rangers, and the Nevada State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Wetzel County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph Allen Sams, of Jacksonsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Sams, 36, pleaded guilty in June 2022 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Sams, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior felony conviction, admitted to having a 20-gauge shotgun and nine rounds of 20-gauge ammunition in August 2021 in Tyler County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Wetzel County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph Allen Sams, of Jacksonsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Sams, 36, pleaded guilty in June 2022 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Sams, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior felony conviction, admitted to having a 20-gauge shotgun and nine rounds of 20-gauge ammunition in August 2021 in Tyler County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Tyler County woman sentenced for mail fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Margaret Ann Moffitt, of Sistersville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months of incarceration for mail fraud, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Moffitt, 62, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to one count of “Mail Fraud.” Moffitt stole money from the estate of someone in the amount of $156,744.87. As the executor of the estate, she made cash withdrawals and endorsed checks to be mailed to people not associated with the estate in any way. She then caused checks to be mailed to the beneficiaries of the estate, knowing the funds were no longer in the account. She stopped payments on those checks because she knew the funds were gone. The crimes occurred from August 2019 to December 2020 in Tyler and Wetzel Counties.
Moffitt was also ordered to pay $156,744.87 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney for Tyler County investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Monongalia County woman sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tara Morgan, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 36 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Morgan, 50, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to one count of “False Statement in Connection with the Acquisition of Firearms.” Morgan admitted to working with another to make false statements to purchase a firearm from a licensed dealer in May 2020 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Maryland man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dominick Mickens, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced today to 63 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Mickens, 39, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine Base, and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Mickens admitted to working with others to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine hydrochloride from August 2020 to June 2021 in Berkeley County and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Maryland man admits to role in drug trafficking enterpriseRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Keyontray Daniel Johnson, of Worton, Maryland, has admitted to his role in a multi-state organized drug trafficking enterprise dubbed the “19th Street Enterprise,” United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Johnson, also known as “38,” age 26, pleaded guilty today to one count of “RICO Conspiracy.” Johnson admitted to working with others as a member of the “19th Street Enterprise,” a criminal organization that engaged in acts of violence, robbery, money laundering, mail and wire fraud, providing and selling false identification documents, and drug trafficking. The enterprise operated in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and Puerto Rico.
Johnson faces up to 20 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; 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.
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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/22-people-indicted-drug-trafficking-enterprise-spanned-several-states
Five charged with COVID fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments on Tuesday alleging fraud against five people in connection with COVID-19.
United State Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced that charges have been filed against individuals alleged to have improperly benefitted from funds appropriated by Congress in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, as follows:
- Dalton Haas, age 27, Wheeling, WV, Wire Fraud and False Statements to SBA
- James A. Nolte, age 51, Bridgeport, WV, Wire Fraud and Money Laundering
- Shawn M. Murphy, age 47, Moundsville, WV, Wire Fraud
- David Boyd, age 27, Chester, WV, Wire Fraud and False Statement to Federal Agent
- Jodi Headley, age 49, Chester, WV, Mail Fraud
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to combatting pandemic fraud and these charges are just the first of many that we will bring,” said United States Attorney Ihlenfeld. “We have a team of highly skilled prosecutors, investigators, and accountants who work on COVID-related cases every day to identify all those who used deception to steal public funds.”
“Those charged today acted out of pure greed,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “These loans were intended to help business owners struggling from the impact of the pandemic. Instead, the indictments allege these actors saw it as an opportunity to rip off the program. Everyone should know the FBI and our partners will pursue those who defraud programs like PPP and hold them accountable for their crimes.”
Dalton Haas is alleged to have made false representations regarding organizations with which he was affiliated in order to obtain CARES Act funding. Specifically, Haas is charged with 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.
James Nolte is charged with submitting false tax documents, payroll reports, and business records in order to obtain Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. The indictment alleges that Nolte improperly secure loans for PGO Veteran Services, PG Health, RJS Catering, and Dental Care Plus, for total fraud in the amount of $645,717.
Shawn Murphy is alleged to have applied for and received unemployment compensation through the CARES Act even though he was still gainfully employed as a machine operator at businesses in Marshall County.
David Boyd is charged with submitting false information in support of his application for PPP funding, including misrepresenting the gross income of a business known as the Seafood Hut. Boyd is also charged with lying to an FBI agent about his loans.
Jodi Headley is alleged to have applied for and receiving unemployment benefits despite being employed by Hancock County schools.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin is prosecuting the cases. The matters were investigated by the FBI and WorkForce West Virginia.
Ihlenfeld encouraged anyone aware of COVID fraud to 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.
All those charged are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Cleveland man sentenced for drug traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Lamark Hall, Jr., of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 46 months of incarceration for a cocaine charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Hall, also known as “Cuz,” 40, pleaded guilty in June 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Hall admitted to selling cocaine base in June 2019 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Berkeley County man admits to role in “boot” distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony Joseph Shants, Jr., of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a drug conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Shants, also known as “Lul Draco,” 24, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Eutylone” and one count of “Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.” Shants admitted to selling Eutylone, also known as “boot,” and having a firearm during the crime in Berkeley County, in April 2021.
Shants faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million for the drug charge and he faces at least five and up life in prison 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Martinsburg Police Department; the Montgomery County, Maryland Police Department; the Virginia State Police, Montgomery County; and Maryland State Attorney’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Wetzel County man sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Franklin Keith Dotson, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 121 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Dotson, 38, pleaded guilty in July 2022 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Dotson admitted to having methamphetamine in July 2021 in Marshall County.
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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office; the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office; and the Marshall County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
United States Attorney announces new prosecutor in MartinsburgRead the Press Release
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Kane and U.S. Attorney William IhlenfeldMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA — A new federal prosecutor has been added to the team at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Martinsburg.
United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced today that Kyle Kane has joined his office and will focus on the prosecution of fentanyl traffickers and federal domestic violence offenders.
“I am pleased to add Kyle to what is already a talented group of prosecutors in the Eastern Panhandle,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “He brings with him a great deal of experience and will hit the ground running.”
According to Ihlenfeld, Kane has been with the State’s Attorney’s Office of Frederick County, Maryland for the past seven years where he handled a high volume of felony narcotic, firearm, and gang cases, as well as homicides. Prior to becoming a prosecutor, Kane was a law clerk for Judge Theresa Adams in the Circuit Court of Frederick County. He is an honors graduate of Mount Saint Mary’s University and earned his law degree from the University of Notre Dame Law School in South Bend.
“This part of the state continues to grow at a rapid pace and with that growth comes additional criminal activity. Accordingly, I will continue to add federal resources so that we are prepared to meet the threat and keep the community safe,” said Ihlenfeld.
Ohio man sentenced to more than 12 years for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Reuben Jahmell Dauntez Donald, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced today to 151 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Donald, 36, pleaded guilty in March 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Donald admitted to selling methamphetamine in October 2021 near Jensen Playground on Wheeling Island.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Moundsville woman sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Loretta Jean Minor, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Minor, 44, pleaded guilty in July 2022 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Minor admitted to having methamphetamine in January 2022 in Marshall County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Morgantown man charged with bank fraud, identity theftRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Morgantown man is accused of stealing nearly a half a million dollars in a scheme involving the forgery of checks that belonged to a relative.
United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced that Jaynesh Umesh Patel, 40, was indicted today on charges of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. Patel is accused of using the identity of a relative to create fraudulent bank accounts and then forging checks to be deposited. The total amount of fraud alleged is more than $450,000.
The conduct occurred from June 2019 until October 2022 in Harrison, Marion, and Monongalia Counties.
“Sadly, those who engage in white-collar crime are often related to their victims, and that is the case here,” said United States Attorney Ihlenfeld. “We will continue to make sure offenders are held to account and do everything within our power to recover the amount lost.”
Patel faces up to 30 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1 million for each of the three counts of bank fraud and faces up to two years of incarceration for each of the two counts of aggravated identity theft. 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 Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Maryland man sentenced for cocaine chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Otis Tillman, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced today to 20 months of incarceration for a cocaine charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Tillman, 51, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Base and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Tillman admitted to working with others to sell cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” from November 2020 to March 2021 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation; U.S. Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Washington County Narcotics Task Force.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Columbus man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tyree A. Allen, of Columbus, Ohio, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Allen, 23, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Allen admitted to having 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” and “ice,” in August 2021 in Monongalia County.
Allen faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $10 million. 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 Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives’ the U.S. Marshals Service; the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Morgantown Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Philadelphia man sentenced for firearms traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marcellos Carey Edens, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 18 months of incarceration for an illegal firearms distribution operation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Edens, also known as “Camo,” 37, pled guilty in September 2020 to one count of “Conspiracy” involving the illegal purchase and transfer of firearms from Berkeley County to Pennsylvania in December 2019. Edens admitted to having others purchase firearms in Berkeley County, West Virginia, and then transport the firearms across state lines to him in Philadelphia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau for Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
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.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Monongalia County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Reece Dillon Shepard, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Shepard, 31, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Shepard, a person prohibited from having firearms, admitted to having a 40-caliber firearm in July 2022 in Monongalia County.
Shepard 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 Jennifer T. Conklin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Edward Maxwell, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Maxwell, 43, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Maxwell admitted to distributing fentanyl in November 2021 in Harrison County.
Maxwell faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1 million. 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County contractor sentenced to decade in prison for fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Bradley Glaspell, of Salem, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months of incarceration for defrauding over 70 customers out of more than a half a million dollars through his contracting businesses, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
“Mr. Glaspell was a shady contractor who took advantage of West Virginians who paid him up front and trusted that he would do the job,” said United States Attorney Ihlenfeld. “His dishonesty caused many to be left with unfinished projects and I’m pleased that he will spend the next ten years behind bars.”
Glaspell, 48, the owner and operator of Over the Top Roofing, LLC, and Helping Hands Home Improvement, pled guilty in May 2022 in federal court to “Wire Fraud.” Glaspell falsely advertised his businesses on social media, claiming to be a licensed contractor when in fact he was not. He required down payments for materials but then failed to complete the work as promised and used the money he collected for his own personal expenses.
The judge ordered Glaspell to pay $593,009.05 in restitution.
Glaspell’s victims were from Doddridge, Gilmer, Harrison, Lewis, Marion, Monongalia, Ohio, Preston, Randolph, Ritchie, Taylor, Tucker, Upshur, and Wetzel counties in West Virginia, and Washington and Fayette counties in Pennsylvania.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The investigation was led by the West Virginia State Police and the Internal Revenue Service and supported by the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office. Numerous county prosecutor’s offices, sheriff’s departments, and police departments assisted with investigating the matter and the gathering of evidence.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Detroit man admits role in a drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shawn Harper Warren, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Warren, also known as “S.J.,” 25, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Warren admitted to working with another to sell more than fifty grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” and “ice,” in September 2019.
Warren faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000. 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force and the Fairmont Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/west-virginia-and-detroit-residents-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation
Martinsburg woman sentenced for cocaine chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jennifer Hardy, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Hardy, 32, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Hardy admitting to working with another to sell cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in February 2021 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Grant County man sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Leroy Dillow, Jr., of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 50 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Dillow, 35, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Dillow admitted to selling methamphetamine in June 2021 in Grant County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Federal civil rights forum planned for WheelingRead the Press Release
WHEELNG, WEST VIRGINIA – Civil rights experts will share their knowledge at a special event to be held next week in Wheeling.
United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld and his staff will host a half-day event on Thursday, December 8 to highlight the constitutional rights of citizens and how they are enforced through civil and criminal actions. Hate crimes, housing rights, disability rights and more will be explained by federal prosecutors, an FBI agent, and prominent Wheeling attorney Robert McCoid.
“The Department of Justice vigorously enforces civil rights and events like this highlight how we protect the public through the federal court system,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “Our hope is that this forum will raise awareness and lead to more citizens contacting us when their rights have been violated.”
The event will take place at 9 a.m. at Temple Shalom on Bethany Pike and is open to the public.
Continuing social work education and legal education credits will be available.
To learn more, go to justice.gov/usao-ndwv.
Maryland man sentenced for role in drug trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Alan Clark Tolliver, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced today to 74 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Tolliver, 42, pleaded guilty in December 2021 to one count of “Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Tolliver admitted to having cocaine hydrochloride in March 2021 in Berkeley County.
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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; Customs and Border Protection; FBI-New York Safe Streets Task Force; and the New Jersey State Police investigated. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania assisted.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Texas woman sentenced for role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Leslie O’Quinn, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced today to 100 months of incarceration for her role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
O’Quinn, age 32, pleaded guilty in July 2022 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances.” O’Quinn admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine base, cocaine hydrochloride, and fentanyl from the Spring of 2018 until October 2020.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. 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.
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
Pennsylvania man sentenced for sex offender registry violationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Donald Edward Hunker, of East Berlin, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 41 months of incarceration for a sex offender registry violation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Hunker, 41, pleaded guilty in March 2022 to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration.” Hunker, who is required to register as a sex offender, failed to update is registration when he traveled from out-of-state to stay in Preston County from May to August of 2020.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Gilmer County man sentenced for child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas Reed Ratliff, of Glenville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 66 months of incarceration for a child pornography charge, First Assistant United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Ratliff, 27, pleaded guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Ratliff admitted to having child pornography videos from August to November 2020 in Gilmer County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Texas man admits to role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kedrick Howard, of Dallas, Texas, has admitted to his role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Howard, age 29, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances.” Howard admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine base, cocaine hydrochloride, and fentanyl from the Spring of 2018 until October 2020.
Howard 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/25-people-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation-spanned-several-states
Inmate admits to the stabbing of another inmateRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ronnie Legette, an inmate at United States Penitentiary Hazleton, in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, has admitted to stabbing another inmate, killing him, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Legette, 39, pleaded guilty today one count of “Voluntary Manslaughter.” Legette admitted to stabbing Demario Porter, another inmate, in a heat of passion on September 17, 2018, in Preston County.
Legette faces up to 15 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 Jennifer M. Conklin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Prisons investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Wheeling man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ronald Shaw, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Shaw, also known as “Fuzz,” 51, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Shaw admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine near Overbrook Playground in Ohio County in October 2022.
Shaw faces at least five years and up to 80 years in prison and a fine of up to $10 million. 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 Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Maryland man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas Moore, of Hagerstown, Maryland, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Moore, 39, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine Base, and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Moore admitted to working with others to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine hydrochloride from August 2020 to June 2021 in Berkeley County and elsewhere.
Moore 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys 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.
Jefferson County man admits to role in a drug distributing conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ian Webster Taylor, of Charles Town, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Taylor, also known as “Beans” or “Beanz,” 31, pleaded guilty today to today on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine, Heroin, and Fentanyl.” Taylor admitted to working with others to sell cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl from August 2020 to September 2021 in Jefferson and Berkeley Counties and elsewhere.
Taylor 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, are 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.
U.S. Attorney, Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney form new partnershipRead the Press Release
Pictured from L-R: Matt Harvey, Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney; Adam Ward, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, Northern District of West Virginia, and Jefferson County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney; United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld, Northern District of West VirginiaCHARLES TOWN, WEST VIRGINIA — A new partnership between state and federal prosecutors has been formed to enhance public safety in the Eastern Panhandle.
United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld and Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney Matt Harvey announced today that an assistant state prosecutor will be cross-designated and authorized to handle cases in federal court.
Adam Ward, one of the most experienced lawyers on Harvey’s staff, has been selected for the position of Special Assistant United States Attorney and will begin his new role this week.
“We are excited to have Adam Ward on our team,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “He will handle a variety of drug and violent crime cases, with a priority being placed on fentanyl trafficking and firearms offenses.”
According to Ihlenfeld, Ward is the first of several new prosecutors that will be added to his Martinsburg office over the next few months.
“The continued growth of the Eastern Panhandle plus our proximity to the D.C. metro area makes its necessary for federal resources to be added in order to more effectively combat crime,” said Ihlenfeld.
“I am pleased to see Adam receive this designation,” said Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney Harvey. “He will continue to work on my staff in addition to handling federal offenses. Adam is a skilled prosecutor, and his new role will help to enhance the coordination between my office and that of the U.S. Attorney.”
Ward has been a prosecutor for a decade and presently handles a busy felony docket that includes cases of homicide, sexual assault, and arson. He previously worked for the Louisa County (VA) Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and is an honors graduate of the University of Richmond School of Law.
Philadelphia man charged with having large amount of methamphetamine near universityRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Philadelphia man was charged today with having a large amount of methamphetamine near Wheeling University, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
James R. Stewart, 36, was indicted today on one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams of More of Methamphetamine within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” It is alleged that Stewart had more than 50 grams of methamphetamine near the university in November 2022 in Ohio County.
Stewart faces at least five years and up to 80 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $10 million. 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 Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Maryland man and West Virginia woman charged with fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG WEST VIRGINIA – A Maryland man and a West Virginia woman are charged with working together to sell fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine for nearly two years in the Eastern Panhandle, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Glenn Caj’mere Civo Watlington, of Parkville, Maryland, was indicted today on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine, Cocaine Base, Heroin, and Fentanyl,” two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl Mixture,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl and Heroin Mixture,” three counts of “Distribution of Fentanyl,” one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Watlington, also known as “Chris,” 28, is accused of selling fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base from August 2020 to July 2022 in Jefferson and Berkeley Counties and elsewhere. Watlington, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, is also accused of having a 9mm pistol in August 2021.
Stephanie Ann Hall, of Oak Hill, West Virginia, was indicted today on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine, Cocaine Base, Heroin, and Fentanyl” and one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl.” Hall, 43, is accused of working with Watlington to sell fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base.
Watlington and Hall each face up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1 million for the conspiracy charge. Hall also faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1 million for the distribution charge. Watlington also faces at least five years and up to 40 years in prison for the 40 grams or more of fentanyl charge, and up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1 million for each of the remaining drug charges. He faces up to 10 years in prison and fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms charge, 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Monongalia County man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Woody, of Morgantown, West Virginia, weas sentenced today to 136 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Woody, 43, pleaded guilty in March 2022 to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Woody admitted to distributing methamphetamine in April 2020 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. 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.
Chief U.S. District Court Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Marion County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Randall Richard Stebbins, of Monongah, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Stebbins, 36, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Stebbins admitted to having methamphetamine in April 2021 in Marion County.
Stebbins faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million. 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Berkeley County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Blaine Walsh, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Walsh, 51, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, aka “Ice”.” Walsh admitted to having methamphetamine hydrochloride, also known as “ice,” in August 2021 in Berkeley County.
Walsh faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million. 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 Eleanor F. Hurney 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.
Maryland Nuclear Engineer and his wife sentenced for Espionage-Related OffensesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A Maryland man and his wife were sentenced today for conspiracy to communicate Restricted Data related to the design of nuclear-powered warships.
Jonathan Toebbe, 44, of Annapolis, was sentenced today to 19 years and 4 months of incarceration and fined $45,700. His wife, Diana Toebbe, 46, was sentenced to 21 years and 10 months of incarceration and fined $50,000. The Toebbes pleaded guilty to the conspiracy in August 2022.
“If not for the remarkable efforts of FBI agents, the sensitive data stolen by Mr. Toebbe could have ended up in the hands of an adversary of the United States and put the safety of our military and our nation at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “The FBI keeps American citizens safe from enemies both foreign and domestic and this case is an excellent reminder of their important work.”
“The Toebbes were willing to compromise the security of the nation by selling information related to naval nuclear propulsion systems. They are now being held accountable for their actions,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “The FBI and our federal partners have an unwavering commitment to protect U.S. secrets and will continue to aggressively investigate and expose espionage activities conducted on U.S. soil.”
According to court documents, at the time of his arrest, Jonathan Toebbe was an employee of the Department of the Navy who served as a nuclear engineer and was assigned to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, also known as Naval Reactors. He held an active national security clearance through the Department of Defense, giving him access to “Restricted Data” within the meaning of the Atomic Energy Act. Restricted Data concerns design, manufacture or utilization of atomic weapons, or production of Special Nuclear Material (SNM), or use of SNM in the production of energy – such as naval reactors. Jonathan Toebbe worked with and had access to information concerning naval nuclear propulsion including information related to military sensitive design elements, operating parameters and performance characteristics of the reactors for nuclear powered warships.
According to court documents, Jonathan Toebbe sent a package to a foreign government, listing a return address in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, containing a sample of Restricted Data and instructions for establishing a covert relationship to purchase additional Restricted Data. Jonathan Toebbe began corresponding via encrypted email with an individual whom he believed to be a representative of the foreign government. The individual was really an undercover FBI agent. Jonathan Toebbe continued this correspondence for several months, which led to an agreement to sell Restricted Data in exchange for thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency.
On June 8, 2021, the undercover agent sent $10,000 in cryptocurrency to Jonathan Toebbe as “good faith” payment. Shortly afterwards, on June 26, Jonathan Toebbe serviced a dead drop by placing an SD card, which was concealed within half a peanut butter sandwich and contained military sensitive design elements relating to submarine nuclear reactors, at a pre-arranged location. After retrieving the SD card, the undercover agent sent Jonathan Toebbe a $20,000 cryptocurrency payment. In return, Jonathan Toebbe emailed the undercover agent a decryption key for the SD Card. A review of the SD card revealed that it contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. On Aug. 28, Jonathan Toebbe made another “dead drop” of an SD card in eastern Virginia, this time concealing the card in a chewing gum package. After making a payment to Jonathan Toebbe of $70,000 in cryptocurrency, the FBI received a decryption key for the card. It, too, contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. The FBI arrested Jonathan Toebbe and his wife on Oct. 9, after he placed yet another SD card at a pre-arranged “dead drop” at a second location in West Virginia.
The FBI and NCIS are investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Matthew J. McKenzie and S. Derek Shugert of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Lara Omps-Botteicher of the Northern District of West Virginia, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar for the Western District of Pennsylvania prosecuted the case.
Maryland Nuclear Engineer and Wife Sentenced for Espionage-Related OffensesRead the Press Release
A Maryland man and his wife were sentenced today for conspiracy to communicate Restricted Data related to the design of nuclear-powered warships.
Jonathan Toebbe, 44, of Annapolis, was sentenced today to 232 months, over 19 years, of incarceration. His wife, Diana Toebbe, 46, was sentenced to 262 months, more than 21 years, of incarceration. The Toebbes pleaded guilty to the conspiracy in August 2022.
“The Toebbes conspired to sell restricted defense information that would place the lives of our men and women in uniform and the security of the United States at risk,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The Department of Justice remains committed to protecting U.S. defense technology.”
“If not for the remarkable efforts of FBI agents, the sensitive data stolen by Mr. Toebbe could have ended up in the hands of an adversary of the United States and put the safety of our military and our nation at risk,” said U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld II for the Northern District of West Virginia. “The FBI keeps American citizens safe from enemies both foreign and domestic and this case is an excellent reminder of their important work.”
“These actions are a betrayal of trust, not only to the U.S. Government, but also to the American people,” said Assistant Director Alan E. Kohler Jr. of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “All U.S. Government employees swear to support and defend the Constitution of the United States, and with that oath comes the obligation to protect sensitive information. Those entrusted with such grave responsibility must be held accountable if they violate their oath and betray their country. The investigation which led to today’s sentencing is a reminder that the FBI and our partners will continue to doggedly pursue those who betray their sworn oath and those who aid them.”
“The Toebbes were willing to compromise the security of the nation by selling information related to naval nuclear propulsion systems, they are now being held accountable for their actions,” said Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office. “The FBI and our federal partners have an unwavering commitment to protect U.S. secrets and will continue to aggressively investigate and expose espionage activities conducted on U.S. soil.”
“Naval nuclear engineer Jonathan Toebbe was entrusted with our nation’s critical secrets and, along with his wife Diana Toebbe, put the security of our country at risk for financial gain,” said U.S. Attorney Cindy Chung for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “Their serious criminal conduct betrayed and endangered the Department of the Navy’s loyal and selfless service members. The seriousness of the offense in this case cannot be overstated.”
“The Toebbes betrayed the American people and put our national security at significant risk when they selfishly attempted to sell highly sensitive information related to nuclear-powered warships for their own financial benefit,” said Special Agent in Charge Brice Miller of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Office of Special Projects. “As the law enforcement arm of the Department of the Navy responsible for preventing terrorism, reducing crime, and protecting secrets, NCIS remains committed to protecting vital information and technology that ensures the superiority of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.”
According to court documents, at the time of his arrest, Jonathan Toebbe was an employee of the Department of the Navy who served as a nuclear engineer and was assigned to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, also known as Naval Reactors. He held an active national security clearance through the Department of Defense, giving him access to “Restricted Data” within the meaning of the Atomic Energy Act. Restricted Data concerns design, manufacture or utilization of atomic weapons, or production of Special Nuclear Material (SNM), or use of SNM in the production of energy – such as naval reactors. Jonathan Toebbe worked with and had access to information concerning naval nuclear propulsion including information related to military sensitive design elements, operating parameters and performance characteristics of the reactors for nuclear powered warships.
According to court documents, Jonathan Toebbe sent a package to a foreign government, listing a return address in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, containing a sample of Restricted Data and instructions for establishing a covert relationship to purchase additional Restricted Data. Jonathan Toebbe began corresponding via encrypted email with an individual whom he believed to be a representative of the foreign government. The individual was really an undercover FBI agent. Jonathan Toebbe continued this correspondence for several months, which led to an agreement to sell Restricted Data in exchange for thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency.
On June 8, 2021, the undercover agent sent $10,000 in cryptocurrency to Jonathan Toebbe as “good faith” payment. Shortly afterwards, on June 26, Jonathan Toebbe serviced a dead drop by placing an SD card, which was concealed within half a peanut butter sandwich and contained military sensitive design elements relating to submarine nuclear reactors, at a pre-arranged location. After retrieving the SD card, the undercover agent sent Jonathan Toebbe a $20,000 cryptocurrency payment. In return, Jonathan Toebbe emailed the undercover agent a decryption key for the SD Card. A review of the SD card revealed that it contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. On Aug. 28, 2021, Jonathan Toebbe made another “dead drop” of an SD card in eastern Virginia, this time concealing the card in a chewing gum package. After making a payment to Jonathan Toebbe of $70,000 in cryptocurrency, the FBI received a decryption key for the card. It, too, contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. The FBI arrested Jonathan Toebbe and his wife on Oct. 9, 2021 after he placed yet another SD card at a pre-arranged “dead drop” at a second location in West Virginia.
The FBI and NCIS are investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Matthew J. McKenzie and S. Derek Shugert of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Lara Omps-Botteicher for the Northern District of West Virginia and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar for the Western District of Pennsylvania prosecuted the case.