Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Joint Law Enforcement Effort Disrupts Two Multi-State Drug Trafficking Operations; Nineteen Defendants Charged in Homeland Security Task Force InitiativeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two multi-state drug trafficking organizations were taken down today with 13 federal arrests made in Maryland and West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
“Thanks to the tireless, coordinated work of law enforcement across multiple states, our communities are now safer,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew Harvey. “Our focus now turns to ensuring these individuals are held fully accountable for the harm they caused.”
“Together ... we were able to collect evidence, execute search warrants, and mete out justice properly to safeguard our communities,” FBI Director Kash Patel said during a press conference in Martinsburg, West Virginia, following the takedown. “We took no shortcuts.”
“Tearing this drug operation out from our communities across two states means ridding our neighborhoods of the poison and violence that tears families apart. Months of painstaking investigative work conducted by every partner agency led to unleashing the full force of the law to destroy this network fueling violence and addiction,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Richard Evanchec. “The FBI and our local, state, and federal partners state loud and clear: crime will pay a heavy price in this region, and we will not stop in the pursuit of keeping your community safe.”
According to two filed indictments, two drug trafficking operations were selling large quantities of cocaine and cocaine base in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties over a two-year period. One operation, led by Rohan Broadie, aka "Glama G," Aneteneh Zewde Terfe, and Marvin A. Taaff of the Baltimore and Greenbelt, Maryland areas, involved 15 defendants and used multiple residences to store and distribute drugs. Members of the group allegedly possessed firearms to support their trafficking activities and handled large amounts of cash in drug proceeds. Omari Obeng Stewart, aka "O," routinely traveled between Maryland and West Virginia to supply, coordinate, and sell cocaine and cocaine base throughout the region. Several defendants are charged in a drug conspiracy involving over five kilograms of cocaine and 28 grams of cocaine base. The second organization, led by brothers Jorfory and Joroy Twyman, of Ranson, West Virginia, worked together to distribute over 500 grams of cocaine and quantities of cocaine base in and around Jefferson County, West Virginia. During the investigation, law enforcement searched multiple homes and storage units, seizing tens of thousands of dollars, cocaine, and luxury items believed to have been purchased with drug proceeds.
“Today’s arrests demonstrate the power of partnership in action. Building public safety is a complex challenge that no single agency can accomplish alone. Each agency contributes unique authorities and expertise, and today, that collaboration has resulted in 14 alleged drug dealers being removed from our streets,” said Special Agent in Charge Eric Weindorf of Homeland Security Investigations Washington D.C. “The landscape is ever-evolving, but Homeland Security Task Force partnerships enable us to confront complex, multifaceted drug trafficking cases with a united front—leveraging our collective strengths to deliver real results.”
The defendants in both cases are:
- Omari Obeng Stewart, also known as “O,” 46, of Greenbelt, Maryland
- Rohan Lamante Broadie, also known as “Glama G,” 53, an illegal alien from Jamaica
- Aneteneh Zewde Terfe, 45, of Baltimore, Maryland
- Christopher Wallace Jones, Jr., 38, of Capitol Heights, Maryland
- Marvin A. Taaff, 39, an illegal alien from Jamaica
- Omo-Karo Cooper, 46, of Brandywine, Maryland
- Traci-Ann Simone Ward, 41, an illegal alien from Jamaica
- LeeAnn Lopez, 33, of Greenbelt, Maryland
- Gavin Anthony Johnson, 23, of New Carrollton, Maryland
- Dante McFalls, 37, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Tabatha McFalls, 40, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Stanley Delano Lum, 41, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Juan Vashaun Payne, also known as “Big Guy,” 51, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Christopher Pasco, 57, of Inwood, West Virginia
- Jorfory Twyman, also known as “Foy,” 47, of Ranson, West Virginia
- Joroy Twyman, also known as “Roy,” 47, of Ranson, West Virginia
- Jennifer Woodsmall, 48, of Summerville, South Carolina
- Chaz Plauche, 31, of Charles Town, West Virginia
- Unnamed fugitive
Six defendants remain at large. They are Omo-Karo Cooper, Tabatha McFalls, Juan Payne, Christopher Pasco, and an unnamed fugitive. Anyone with information can contact their local law enforcement office. Marvin Taaff was in custody prior to today’s arrests.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the FBI, Pittsburgh Field Office; Homeland Security Investigations; the West Virginia State Police; the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Martinsburg Police Department; the Ranson Police Department; the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; the U.S. National Guard, Martinsburg; the United States Postal Service - Office of Inspector General, Mid Atlantic Area Field Office; the Bureau of Prisons; the FBI, Washington Field Office; the FBI, Baltimore Field Office; the Montgomery County, Maryland Police Department; the Prince George’s County, Maryland Police Department; the Virginia State Police; the Drug Enforcement Administration, Washington Field Office; and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Information.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Joint Law Enforcement Effort Exposes Fentanyl Conspiracy; Defendant Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania man has admitted to working with an alleged gang member to sell fentanyl in North Central West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Ramon Juan Sims, Jr., 29, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, in September 2024, the Weston Police Department, the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, and West Virginia State Police conducted a patrol of the Broad Street area of Weston, West Virginia, due to suspected drug activity. The cooperative police effort stopped driver Ramon Sims, and his passenger, Shawn Galin Whitley, Jr., while in possession of fentanyl and $2,040 in suspected drug proceeds. With assistance from the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, police lawfully searched their nearby hotel room and seized 3,750 fentanyl stamps.
Whitley, Jr., 35, of Charlotte, North Carolina, is a suspected gang member. Whitley previously pled guilty in April 2026 for his role in the conspiracy and is awaiting sentencing.
Sims faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office; and the Weston Police Department.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Two Morgantown Residents Sentenced to Prison for Trafficking Large Amounts of Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, and CocaineRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two West Virginia residents have been sentenced for their roles in a drug trafficking organization that sold large amounts of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in North Central West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Jeffrey Marsh, 47, of Morgantown, was sentenced to 78 months in prison. Bobbie Jo Phillips, 39, also of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced to time served after serving 22 months in federal prison. Phillips and Marsh worked within the drug trafficking operation, led by Rodney Johnson, in the Morgantown, West Virginia, area. Phillips’ residence was searched during the investigation, and officers seized a handgun, cash, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia.
Johnson was sentenced to 188 months in prison in March 2025. Of the 25 defendants in this case, 23, including Johnson, Phillips, and Marsh, have been sentenced to a combined 196 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
This case was investigated by the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force consists of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the West Virginia State Police; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Morgantown Police Department; the WVU Police Department; the Granville Police Department; and the Star City Police Department.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Two Men Sentenced for their Roles in Trafficking Deadly Drugs Obtained from Detroit and Sold in ShinnstonRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Detroit, Michigan men were sentenced for leading a drug trafficking operation selling fentanyl and methamphetamine in Harrison County, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Teran Demonde Gordon, also known as “Mike,” 28, was sentenced to 168 months in prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Devaughn Lamont Thompson, also known as “Trey,” 23, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. Gordon and Thompson worked with four others to sell fentanyl and methamphetamine from a house in Shinnston, West Virginia. The two men would source the drugs from Detroit.
The four other defendants in this case have been convicted of their roles in the operation. Malik Fikes was sentenced to 78 months in prison in March 2026. The other three will be sentenced later this year.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Illegal Mexican National with Sinaloa Cartel Connections SentencedRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jose Alberto Camarena Rocha has been sentenced for his role in a drug trafficking organization that sold cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Jose Alberto Camarena Rocha, 32, was sentenced to 159 months in federal prison for a drug conspiracy involving over one kilogram of heroin and reentering the country illegally. Rocha, living in Phoenix, Arizona, was a supplier for this drug organization, using his connections with the Sinaloa Drug Cartel in Mexico, traveling across the country to pick up supply and deliver it to others who would then sell cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties. Total drug weights for Rocha’s involvement is one and a half kilograms of heroin.
“Rocha thought he could get away with bringing this poison from California to the Mountain State. He was wrong and will now spend more than 13 years in prison,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “Make no mistake. We will eliminate these ruthless cartels and will not tolerate their presence in our home.”
The operation, led by Juan Suarez-Lugo, involved 18 defendants. Suarez-Lugo, Rocha, and 10 others have admitted their guilt. Nine, including Rocha, have been sentenced so far. Four defendants are scheduled for trial in June 2026, and two are still pending arrest on this Indictment.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force was the lead investigative unit. Other investigative agencies that assisted include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pittsburgh, San Francisco, San Juan, and Philadelphia Field Offices; United States Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Postal Service; Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisville and Chicago Divisions; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Martinsburg Police Department; Ranson Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; Berkeley County Sheriff's Office; Jefferson County Sheriff's Office; West Virginia Air National Guard; Mineral County Sheriff's Office; Grant County Sheriff's Office; Hampshire County Sheriff's Office; Keyser Police Department; Northwest Regional Drug Task Force, Virginia; Pennsylvania State Police; Franklin County Sheriff's Office, Pennsylvania; Winchester Police Department, Virginia; Frederick County Sheriff's Office, Virginia; Virginia State Police; Sunnyvale Police Department, California.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Find the related press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/twenty-five-charged-drug-trafficking-eastern-panhandle]
Firearms Violators Sentenced to Decades in PrisonRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three firearms violators have been sentenced across the Northern District of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Zachary Mongold, 37, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced to 180 months in prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm. Mongold was the subject of another investigation into a violent crime, and the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office stopped his vehicle. A search of the car recovered a firearm with ammunition. Mongold is prohibited from having firearms because of a prior domestic battery conviction. Mongold’s brother, Jeremy, was convicted at a trial of three charges related to purchasing the firearm for Zachary. He is scheduled to be sentenced in June 2026.
Jason Gordon, 39, of Baker, West Virginia, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison. Officers responded to a domestic violence call at Gordon’s residence. A consent search of the home recovered firearms in the attic of the home. Gordon admitted they were his. He has prior felony and domestic violence convictions, prohibiting him from having firearms.
Montez Taryle Lincoln, 41, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 72 months in prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm. West Virginia State Police were investigating a report of a marijuana grow operation on a property in Martinsburg. A search warrant was executed, and officers seized two pistols and some crack cocaine from Lincoln’s bedroom. Lincoln, also known as “Fatz,” was prior felony drug convictions, prohibiting him from having firearms.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eleanor Hurney, Andrew Cogar, and Stephen Warner prosecuted the cases on behalf of the United States.
Investigative agencies include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia State Police; and the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided over the Mongold and Gordon sentencings.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided over the Lincoln sentencing.
DUI Arrest, Reentry Charge Sends Illegal Honduras National to PrisonRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – An illegal Honduras National was sentenced for reentering the country illegally, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Edwin Leonel Rivera-Gallardo, 40, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for reentering the United States illegally. Rivera-Gallardo, also known as “William Leonel Gallardo” and “Jose Ortiz Rodriguez Ortiz,” was arrested by the Charles Town Police Department in Jefferson County, West Virginia, for third offense driving under the influence, fleeing, and other related charges. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents determined that Rivera-Gallardo once had lawful permanent residence in the U.S. but that was revoked following a criminal conviction. He had been removed from the U.S. five times prior to the DUI arrest in Charles Town.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Charles Town Police Department.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
A Tax Preparer and Insurance Agent Sentenced to Prison for Financial FraudRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A tax preparer in Berkeley County, West Virginia, was sentenced for fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Amanda Gorham, 34, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for wire fraud. Gorham was a tax preparer at a business in Martinsburg and was simultaneously working as an insurance agent at another company. Gorham used the identifying information of those who filed their taxes with her company to open insurance policies without their knowledge of permission. The purpose of this scheme was to obtain financial gain by collecting commissions and a bonus on the newly opened policies in the amount of $44,582.52.
Gorham was ordered to pay a money judgement in amount of $44,582.52.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The matter was investigated by the WV Office of the Insurance Commissioner Office of Inspector General Special Investigative Division and the United States Postal Service.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Violent Felon Sentenced for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia man with a violent criminal past was sentenced for a firearms conviction, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Ryan Dontrez Lynn, 37, of Martinsburg, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm. Officers received a domestic dispute complaint at Lynn’s home. When Berkeley County Sheriff’s Deputies responded, Lynn sped away in his vehicle. Officers conducted a traffic stop and found a firearm in the car, along with drugs and $860. The firearm had an obliterated serial number. Lynn has a criminal history that includes robbery, assault, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Lynn was on supervised release for a firearms conviction at the time of this offense.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Kane prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and to repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Judge Sentences Methamphetamine Distributors to Decades in PrisonRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three men have been sentenced to a combined 48 years in federal prison for trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Patrick Stickley, 38, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison. Charles Lawrence Stevens, 33, of Winchester, Virginia, was sentenced to 106 months in prison. Both men were involved in a drug trafficking operation selling methamphetamine. Stickley had several others accepting mailed packages of drugs on his behalf for Stickley to then sell in Berkeley County. Stevens was the intended recipient of a package containing nearly two pounds of methamphetamine. The package was intercepted by the U.S. Postal Service and the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force. A search warrant was executed at Stickley’s residence and officers seized 10 pounds of marijuana and 15 firearms.
Gerard Joseph Fitch, III, 36, of Augusta, West Virginia, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for the distribution of more than 5 grams of methamphetamine. Fitch sold 27 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in Hampshire County. He has a history of drug trafficking.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the cases on behalf of the United States.
Investigative agencies include the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; HSI Cherry Hill/Joint Camden Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Fentanyl Distributors Sentenced to 33 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Four men who sold fentanyl in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia were sentenced to a combined 33 and half years in prison, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Kentrel Anthony Rollins, 33, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced to 138 months in federal prison for possessing fentanyl and a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. Rollins, also known as “T-Rock,” was the leader of a drug trafficking organization that spanned from Baltimore to Hampshire County, West Virginia. Investigators seized fentanyl, two firearms, rounds of various ammunition, and more than $17,000. Eleven other defendants in this case were convicted and sentenced to a combined 40 years in prison. Read more about the case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/baltimore-fentanyl-organizations-shut-down-federal-indictments
Jwan Martine Smith, 40, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 120 months in prison. Matthew James Elsea, 43, of Stephenson, Virginia, was sentenced to 87 months. Smith and Elsea were a part of a drug trafficking operation, led by Delano Butler, that distributed large amounts of fentanyl in the Eastern Panhandle. Investigators watched Smith, Elsea, and others transfer items from a stash apartment into vehicles. Officers conducted multiple traffic stops and seized 14 firearms and 30,000-40,000 pressed fentanyl pills. Subsequent searches of other vehicles and properties yielded more fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and drug paraphernalia. Total drug weight is nearly 8 pounds of fentanyl and 4.5 grams of methamphetamine. Smith has prior drug and home invasion convictions and was under parole supervision for several prior offenses during the commission of this crime. Butler was convicted of his role in April 2026. He is awaiting sentencing. Read more about this case: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/twenty-five-charged-drug-trafficking-eastern-panhandle
Tyler Lantz Gordon, 34, of Rawlings, Maryland, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison for selling fentanyl near a protected location. Gordon sold fentanyl-laced capsules near West Virginia University Potomac State College. The fentanyl totaled 37 grams, equaling more than 18,000 potentially deadly doses. Gordon has prior drug convictions.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher and Kyle Kane prosecuted the cases on behalf of the United States.
Investigative agencies include the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force and the Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, both HIDTA-funded initiatives, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Man Selling Counterfeit Pills Containing Fentanyl on Social Media Receives 21-Year SentenceRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jayden Isaiah Stephon Gill, 22, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced today to 260 months in prison for selling fentanyl-laced pills online, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Officers in Frederick, Maryland, responded to a suspected overdose of two juvenile females and located blue pills imprinted to mimic Oxycodone prescription medication. The pills were analyzed and were found to contain fentanyl. The investigation led to Gill who traveled from Martinsburg, West Virginia to Frederick, Maryland, to sell the pills which the females believed to be Percocet and ordered from Gill’s social media accounts. Gill, along with others, operated a sophisticated drug trafficking business in the tristate area. Gill utilized Telegram, Instagram, Snapchat, Signal, and Linktree to mass market fentanyl disguised as Oxycodone, along with other drugs. Orders could be placed online through these platforms, and Gill and his associates would travel to distribute the orders.
Investigators searched Gill’s home and seized more than 20 grams of fentanyl, nearly 4 pounds of methamphetamine, 146 grams of cocaine, two firearms, and nearly $50,000 in cash.
“Americans are too often being killed by counterfeit pills that contain fentanyl,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “We will not allow dealers to prey upon our youth by selling these dangerous drugs on social media. If you try to make a quick dollar this way, you will face severe consequences.”
Christion Sayyid Gill, 27, also of Hagerstown, pled guilty to his role in the scheme in January 2026. He will be sentenced in August 2026. A third defendant, Jamil Nicholas Gardner, 33, of Baltimore, Maryland, has also been charged and will stand trial after his release from custody in Maryland. Gardner is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Kane prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Investigative agencies include the United States Postal Inspection Service; Homeland Security Investigations; the Brunswick Police Department, Maryland; Frederick City Police, Maryland; Maryland State Police; Hagerstown Police Department, Maryland; the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland; and the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Two Admit to Selling Fentanyl, Methamphetamine Near Schools, PlaygroundRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men have admitted to trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine near protected locations in Wheeling, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Jason Hill, 42, of Cleveland, Ohio, pleaded guilty to the distribution of heroin and fentanyl within 1,000 feet of a protected location. According to court documents, Hill, also known as “Tay,” was selling the drugs near Wheeling Central Catholic High School and West Virginia Northern Community College. He’s facing one to 40 years in prison.
In a separate case, Matthew Luff, 41, of Wheeling, West Virginia, pleaded guilty to the distribution of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a protected location. According to court documents, Luff sold more than 13 grams of methamphetamine near Heritage Port Playground in Wheeling. Luff is facing 5 to 40 years in prison.
A federal district court judge will determine sentences after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Wheeling Police Department.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
The Dismantling of an Interstate Drug Trafficking Operation Sends Two to PrisonRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men were sentenced for their roles in a drug trafficking organization that stretched from Philadelphia to Detroit to Morgantown, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Rex Jenkins, 34, of Southfield, Michigan, was sentenced to 124 months in federal prison after a jury convicted him in March 2025 of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine trafficking. James Elli, 43, of Point Marion, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 79 months. Jenkins and Elli were part of a larger drug trafficking operation based in Philadelphia that was selling methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in Morgantown. Drug amounts between the two men totaled more than 43 grams of fentanyl, 126 grams of methamphetamine, and more than four grams of cocaine.
The 24 defendants involved in the drug trafficking conspiracy were convicted for their roles. Twenty, including Jenkins and Elli, have been sentenced to a combined 183 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
This case was investigated by the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force consists of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the West Virginia State Police; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Morgantown Police Department; the WVU Police Department; the Granville Police Department; and the Star City Police Department.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Former “America’s Most Wanted” Fugitive Sentenced for His Role in Multi-State Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – One of the leaders in a larger drug trafficking operation in the Eastern Panhandle has been sentenced in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Samuel Rose, 53, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, will serve 190 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to a cocaine distribution charge. Rose, one of 35 defendants in an investigation that spanned multiple states, resided in Berkeley County, West Virginia at the time of the investigation. Rose was distributing large quantities of cocaine, cocaine base, and fentanyl, getting his supply from the operation headquarters “Top 3 Sources,” an appliance store and warehouse in Hagerstown. As a part of the illegal operation, drugs were hidden and shipped within appliances. The drugs seized during the investigation amounted to nearly 19 pounds of cocaine, more than two pounds of heroin, and nearly one pound of cocaine base “crack,” with a street value of approximately $471,000.
Rose was on supervised release from a prior drug conviction in the Northern District of West Virginia during the commission of the crimes. Rose was a fugitive in this case from the indictment in 2021 and was featured on “America’s Most Wanted.” Rose was apprehended in 2024 and currently has other drug charges in Pennsylvania pending.
Lenin Luna Mota, the leader of the drug organization, was sentenced to 280 months in October 2025. To date, 33 of the 35 defendants have been convicted and were sentenced to a combined 109 years in prison.
Chelsea Nicole Pinkcett, 37, is still wanted in connection to this case by the U.S. Marshal’s Service. Find her wanted information here: https://www.usmarshals.gov/what-we-do/fugitive/local/chelsea-nicole-pinkcett.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The FBI; the U.S. Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and 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; U.S. 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.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Find the related case here: www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/34-indicted-expansive-drug-trafficking-operation
Intercepted Package Containing 1.6 Pounds of Fentanyl Leads to ConvictionRead the Press Release
Intercepted Package Containing 1.6 Pounds of Fentanyl Leads to Conviction
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jaquan Marquis Brock, 29, of Charlotte, North Carolina, pleaded guilty today to attempted possession with intent to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, U.S. Postal Inspectors intercepted a package mailed to an apartment in Morgantown from an address in Scottsdale, Arizona. A search warrant for the package was executed and investigators found more than 1.6 pounds of fentanyl. The Postal Inspection Service worked with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force to deliver the package. Brock retrieved the package and was arrested in the parking lot.
Brock faces 10 years to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Felon Sentenced to More than 22 Years for Selling Dangerous Drugs in North Central West VirginiaRead the Press Release
A Detroit, Michigan man has been sentenced for leading a drug trafficking organization, selling methamphetamine and fentanyl in Harrison County, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Emmitt Renand Richardson, 53, was sentenced to 275 months in prison. Following a trial in September 2025, a federal jury found Richardson guilty of multiple methamphetamine and fentanyl charges. Richardson has a history of drug related convictions and was operating under an alias.
“Richardson’s ability to sell deadly poison to our community has come to an end,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “Because of the great work of our drug task force, a jury found him guilty and now he will spend more than two decades in prison.”
For nearly a year, the Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force investigated a drug operation led by Richardson centered in Clarksburg West Virginia. Richardson was responsible for drug sales that took place on city streets, as well as from several residences Richardson used to further the operation. Richardson was responsible for nearly two kilograms of methamphetamine and more than three grams of fentanyl sold in the area.
The other three defendants in this case admitted guilt. Randy Joe Jones of Clarksburg was sentenced to 136 months in October 2025 for his role. The remaining defendants will be sentenced at a later date.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Cogar and Will Rhee prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Morgantown Night Club Owner, Two Others Convicted of Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey has announced that Mike Sheriff Scott, 47, Rachelle Gaston, 41, and Phineas Chaplin, 42, were convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances by a federal jury yesterday following a 7-day trial. Scott and Gaston were convicted of additional felony charges related to the drug operation, including Aiding and Abetting the Maintaining of a Drug-Involved Premise. The jury also returned a guilty verdict for Scott for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.
“I am grateful for the swift and decisive actions taken by law enforcement that inevitably saved lives,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “This case should send a clear message to drug dealers that West Virginia is not open for business.”
Evidence presented at trial established Scott utilized CowGirlz Nightclub, which was not yet open to the public, on Earl Core Road in Morgantown, West Virginia as a front to distribute drugs. Evidence presented at trial established that Scott used the nightclub to sell methamphetamine and fentanyl, as well as to store his supply of illicit drugs obtained from out-of-state. Further, evidence presented at trial established that Scott utilized individuals with substance abuse disorder to conduct renovations on the building to prepare it to operate as a nightclub and paid those individuals with controlled substances.
Jurors also heard about a shooting in Monongalia County which led investigators to obtain a search warrant for the nightclub. Footage from the cameras outside showed Chaplin firing at a vehicle and Scott cleaning up the shell casings from the crime. A subsequent search of the nightclub led to the seizure of five pistols – including two of the firearms used in the shooting – and ammunition concealed inside of a hidden compartment inside of the stairs to Scott’s office in the nightclub. Also seized were methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and drug paraphernalia. Recorded jail calls showed that Scott continued to attempt to operate the drug trafficking organization while incarcerated and solicited others to destroy evidence.
Chaplin previously pled guilty to another felony drug charge and a firearms violation connected to this case.
A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Eleanor F. Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Interstate Drug Trafficking Conspirator Enters Guilty PleaRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Malachi Brian Maurice Younger, 23, of Hagerstown, Maryland, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute cocaine, cocaine base, and fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Younger was involved in a conspiracy to distribute illicit drugs in Berkeley County, West Virginia. On March 28, 2024, law enforcement seized large quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana, along with packaging materials, a digital scale, razor blades, and cash, from a stolen Jeep operated by Younger. In the following months, investigators repeatedly observed Younger engaging in hand-to-hand drug transactions in Maryland and West Virginia, often using a stolen black Jaguar SUV. On July 27, 2024, Younger fled from Pennsylvania State Police in the same Jaguar and was found in possession of additional fentanyl mixtures, oxycodone, drug paraphernalia, and cash.
Younger will be sentenced for his conviction at a later date.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration-Hagerstown investigated.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime and drug trafficking.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Dealers SentencedRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three people have been sentenced to federal prison for selling fentanyl and methamphetamine in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Demarkco Canty, 23, of Parkville, Maryland was sentenced to 115 months in prison for working with others to sell approximately 200,000 lethal doses of fentanyl. Canty acted as the delivery man, delivering fentanyl and heroin for the leader of the drug trafficking organization, Sean Jarred Davis of Baltimore, to dealers in Hampshire and Mineral Counties in West Virginia. The organization was selling hundreds of grams of purple fentanyl across the region. Davis was sentenced to 240 months in prison in December 2024. The other 20 defendants in the case were convicted and were sentenced to a combined 41 years in prison.
In a separate case, James Shanholtz, 38, of Springfield, West Virginia, was sentenced to 92 months and Gregory Brian Harrison, 54, of Romney, West Virginia, was sentenced to 24 months. Both men were working together with others to sell methamphetamine in Hampshire County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; 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.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Virginia Woman Convicted of Identity Theft and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Richmond, Virginia woman has admitted identity theft and money laundering in the Northern District of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Kelli Renee Miller, 43, pled guilty today to aggravated identity theft and transactional money laundering. According to court documents and statements made in court, Miller worked with Michael Vordjorbe to assume the identities of account holders without their knowledge or permission and withdrew funds from accounts at several banks, some in the Northern District of West Virginia. Miller and Vordjorbe deposited the illegally obtained money into another count to hide the theft. The amount of fraudulent funds obtained was $137,000 and the total relevant conduct fraud was between $500,000 and $1.5 million.
Vordjorbe pled guilty in March 2026. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 8, 2026.
Miller faces up to two years in prison for identity theft and faces up to 10 years for money laundering. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the FBI; the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations; the U.S. Postal Service, Loudon County, Virginia; and the Stamford, Connecticut Police Department.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Fentanyl Traffickers Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two people have been sentenced for fentanyl and methamphetamine offenses in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Courtney Stewart, 30, of Piedmont, West Virginia, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison. Stewart worked with Nelson Anthony Zambito to sell methamphetamine and fentanyl in Mineral County and elsewhere. Zambito was Stewart’s drug supplier. Zambito’s home was searched, and officers seized nearly 29 grams of meth and nearly 1 gram of fentanyl. Zambito pled guilty in October 2025. He will be sentenced at a later date.
In a separate case, Crystal Lyn Lewis, 36, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 40 months for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Lewis worked with Delano Butler and others to sell fentanyl and other controlled substances in the Eastern Panhandle. The drug operation investigation yielded 30,000 to 40,000 press fentanyl pills, along with 14 firearms, and other illegal drugs. Butler pled guilty on April 10, 2026. He is awaiting sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Potomac Highlands Drug task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, including the Pittsburgh, San Francisco, San Juan, and Philadelphia Field Offices; United States Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Postal Service; Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisville and Chicago Divisions; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Martinsburg Police Department; Ranson Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; Berkeley County Sheriff's Office; Jefferson County Sheriff's Office; West Virginia Air National Guard; Mineral County Sheriff's Office; Grant County Sheriff's Office; Hampshire County Sheriff's Department; Keyser Police Department; Northwest Regional Drug Task Force, Virginia; Pennsylvania State Police; Franklin County Sheriff's Office, Pennsylvania; Winchester Police Department, Virginia; Frederick County Sheriff's Office, Virginia; Virginia State Police; Sunnyvale Police Department, California.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Drug Trafficker Leading Armed Fentanyl Ring in Berkeley County, West Virginia Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced today that 45-year-old Delano Alan Butler has admitted to spearheading a drug trafficking ring in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle. Butler pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl, approximately 200,000 lethal doses, as well as methamphetamine and cocaine.
According to court documents, Butler organized a crew of six individuals to facilitate the sale of these substances and maintained a dedicated property located in Berkeley County for their distribution. As part of his plea agreement, Butler will forfeit several firearms connected to the operation, including six semi-automatic rifles; two semi-automatic pistols; and one semi-automatic shotgun.
Four of Butler's co-defendants have also entered guilty pleas and are currently awaiting sentencing. Butler faces a potential prison term of 180 to 288 months. His final sentence will be determined by a federal district court judge following a review of U.S. sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force was the lead investigative unit. Other investigative agencies that assisted include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, including the Pittsburgh, San Francisco, San Juan, and Philadelphia Field Offices; United States Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Postal Service; Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisville and Chicago Divisions; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Martinsburg Police Department; Ranson Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; Berkeley County Sheriff's Office; Jefferson County Sheriff's Office; West Virginia Air National Guard; Mineral County Sheriff's Office; Grant County Sheriff's Office; Hampshire County Sheriff's Department; Keyser Police Department; Northwest Regional Drug Task Force, Virginia; Pennsylvania State Police; Franklin County Sheriff's Office, Pennsylvania; Winchester Police Department, Virginia; Frederick County Sheriff's Office, Virginia; Virginia State Police; Sunnyvale Police Department, California.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime and drug trafficking.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble.
Find the related press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/twenty-five-charged-drug-trafficking-eastern-panhandle
U.S. Attorney, ATF Offer Law Enforcement Training on Firearms TrendsRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey will open a one-day training about firearms intelligence and trends offered by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office in Eastern Panhandle today.
“I commend the ATF for keeping our law enforcement partners on the cutting edge of firearms tracing and technology that is critical to solving gun crimes and preventing further violence,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “With effective firearms investigations, we can ensure that those committing violent crimes are held accountable.”
“This eight-hour training course is designed to enhance the capabilities of our law enforcement partners and prosecutors in investigating and prosecuting firearm-related violent crime” said ATF Special Agent in Charge John Nokes. “Participants will receive instruction on the latest crime gun investigative tools and techniques, including firearms tracing, emerging firearm and 3D-printing technologies, and advanced resources such as ATF’s National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).”
ATF Crime Gun Intelligence-Building a Bulletproof Case will include crime gun trends, effective firearms tracing, and offer a demonstration of the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) machine. NIBIN offers national tracing of expended shell casings and ammunition, connecting crimes across the nation by an individual firearm.
The training is free and open to law enforcement, offering 8 hours of education credits through LEPS. It will be held at Jefferson High School in Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia Thursday, April 9 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Maryland Man Admits to Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Temple Hills, Maryland man has admitted to sex trafficking between Virginia and Martinsburg, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Rodney Dale Johnson, 47, pled guilty today to sex trafficking. According to court documents and statements made in court, Johnson transported the victim from Virginia to Martinsburg, West Virginia to engage in sex acts at a hotel. Johnson used threats, threats of force, and coercion with the victim.
Johnson faces 15 years to life. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The FBI and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Four Admit to Drug Trafficking in North Central West VirginiaRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Four people have pled guilty in federal court this week for fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Michelle Denise Gallo, 57, of Fairmont, West Virginia, pled guilty today to conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime. According to court documents and statements made in court, Gallo was working with others to sell methamphetamine and other drugs and had firearms with her during her drug trafficking work. She’s facing 10 years to life for the drug charge and 5 years to life for the firearms charge.
Lisa Dawn Andrews, 40, of Montrose, West Virginia, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Andrews admitted to working with others to sell methamphetamine in Randolph County and elsewhere. She’s facing 10 years to life in federal prison.
Shawn Galin Whitley, Jr., 35, of Charlotte, North Carolina, pled guilty today to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. According to court documents and statements made in court, Whitley was traveling from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Lewis County, West Virginia when the vehicle he was in was stopped by the Lewis County Sheriff’s Department. Officers found a small amount of fentanyl stamps and cash in the vehicle. During a lawful search of Whitely’s hotel room, task force officers seized more than 3,700 fentanyl stamps. He’s facing up to 20 years in prison.
Justin Michael Hoover, 35, of Huttonsville, West Virginia, pled guilty to the distribution of five grams or more of methamphetamine. According to statements made in court, Hoover was selling methamphetamine from his home. He’s facing 5 to 40 years in federal prison.
A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Maryland Woman Admits to Role in Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Cumberland, Maryland woman has admitted to her role in a drug trafficking operation from Maryland to the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced.
Alyssa Ellen Hockenberry, 23, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute cocaine, cocaine base, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. According to court documents and statements made in court, Hockenberry was one of the suppliers and distributors of controlled substances, illegally distributed in Mineral County, West Virginia and elsewhere.
Hockenberry faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Maryland State Police; the Hagerstown Police Department (MD); and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office (MD).
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Jefferson County Man Admits to Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Shepherdstown, West Virginia man has admitted to illegally having firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
James William Jacobs, 63, pled guilty today to unlawfully possessing a firearm. According to court documents and statements made in court, Jacobs is prohibited from having firearms because of a prior domestic battery conviction and a felony fleeing conviction. Officers responded to a call of shots fired and a domestic altercation at Jacob’s home. A lawful search was conducted, and two firearms and ammunition were seized.
Jacobs faces up to 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Kane is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Clarksburg Woman Admits to Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia woman has admitted to purchasing a firearm for someone who was prohibited from possessing firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Shayla Ann Jackson, 27, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to straw purchase a firearm. According to court documents and statements made in court, Jackson was working with others to purchase firearms for a person prohibited from possessing firearms.
Jackson faces up to 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
West Virginia U.S. Attorney’s Offices Partner to Further Elder Justice Work with Local StakeholdersRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey and U.S. Attorney Moore Capito, in collaboration with Modell Consulting, have partnered to offer a two-day training to further the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative.
West Virginia SAFE (Safe and Accessible Forensic Interviewing with Elders) is being held at the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) facility in Clarksburg, West Virginia. The training, conducted by Karen Hill, Ed.D., LCPA, with Modell Consulting Group, is designed for elder justice professionals seeking to gain additional information on communicating with older adults who are alleged victims of crime. Centered in skills development, this training strengthens forensic interviewing with considerations for age related declines in cognition, underlying neuropathology, like dementia and Alzheimer’s, language capacity and cultural background.
“Those who target older Americans for financial gain should be on notice: we will use every tool available to investigate and prosecute these crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew Harvey. “By investing in this training, we are standing up for our seniors and making clear that exploitation of the elderly will not be tolerated in our communities.”
“Elder abuse is a coward’s crime — preying on those least able to fight back,” said U.S. Attorney Moore Capito. “Here in West Virginia, our seniors are the best of the best. They should be able to retire knowing they are both physically and financially safe. That’s why this training matters — it sharpens our ability to spot it, stop it, and hold offenders accountable. We will not overlook it, we will not excuse it — we will prosecute it, every time.”
Law enforcement partners from across the state, along with federal and state prosecutors, and social workers who work with the elderly population will be in attendance. Each participant will gain education credits within their field. AARP is a limited sponsor of the event.
For more information about the DOJ Elder Justice Initiative contact Elder Justice Coordinators Kimberley Crockett (NDWV) and Jonathan Storage (SDWV) at their respective United States Attorney’s Offices.
Legal education credits are provided by the West Virginia State Bar. Law enforcement education credits are provided by the West Virginia Division Law Enforcement Professional Standards Program (LEPS). Social work education credits are provided by Crittenton Services, Inc. in Wheeling, West Virginia.
Hampshire County Man Convicted of Drug and Firearms Charges Following a Three-Day TrialRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – After a three-day trial, a federal jury convicted an Augusta, West Virginia man today of trafficking methamphetamine and illegally having nine firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Charles Frederick Muffley, III, 50, was convicted of on all three counts charged in the Superseding Indictment, including conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine hydrochloride, also known as ice, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and unlawful possession of firearms. The evidence presented at trial established that Muffley played a central role in a drug trafficking operation responsible for distributing several pounds of high-purity methamphetamine throughout Hampshire County and surrounding areas. According to trial testimony, in September 2024, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service intercepted a package containing nearly a pound of methamphetamine.
That package led them to Muffley, who split drug packages and distributed methamphetamine with other co-conspirators for several months. Following the interception of the pound of methamphetamine, Muffley continued to distribute methamphetamine. Muffley’s home was later searched pursuant to a search warrant. Officers seized methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, six digital scales, cash, ammunition, and nine firearms—including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Muffley is prohibited from having firearms because of prior felony convictions.
“This conviction reflects the serious danger posed by drug trafficking and illegal firearms possession in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “The defendant not only distributed methamphetamine but also did so while unlawfully possessing firearms. We remain committed to working with our law enforcement partners to hold offenders accountable.”
Muffley is facing 15 years to life for the conspiracy conviction and up to 30 years in prison for the possession with intent conviction because he has a prior felony conviction for a drug trafficking offense. Muffley is facing up to 15 years for the firearms conviction. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing will be scheduled by the Court at a later date.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; U.S. Postal Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Department; and the Hampshire County Prosecutor’s Office.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced for Work in Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Philadelphia, Pennsylvania man was sentenced for his role in a drug trafficking organization that distributed large amounts of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in the Northern District of West Virginia, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced.
Ryan Rasheed Shaw, 29, was sentenced to 240 months in prison. Shaw was the point of contact in West Virginia for the operation led by Rodney Johnson in Philadelphia. Shaw was managing the drug business in Morgantown, supplying significant quantities of illicit drugs to local dealers. Shaw was responsible for nearly 3.2 kilograms of methamphetamine and 379 grams of fentanyl.
Johnson, the leader of the drug operation, received an 188-month prison sentence in March of 2025. To date all 24 defendants in the case have been convicted and 18 defendants, including Shaw, have been sentenced thus far.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
This case was investigated by the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force consists of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the West Virginia State Police; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Morgantown Police Department; the WVU Police Department; the Granville Police Department; and the Star City Police Department.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Four Sentenced for Drug Trafficking in the Northern PanhandleRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Four Wheeling, West Virginia residents were sentenced today for selling fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine in the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced.
Tyshaun Johnson, 30, was sentenced to 115 months. Johnson sold fentanyl near Jensen Playground in Wheeling. Investigators also determined Johnson was selling cocaine base in the area. Johnson has prior convictions for fraud, assault, domestic battery, malicious assault, and theft.
Harold Wayne Nice, 42, was sentenced to 60 months today. Nice was responsible for selling more than 30 grams of methamphetamine, along with nearly 2 grams of fentanyl, and one gram of cocaine base. Nice has previously been convicted for domestic battery, destruction of property, assault, breaking and entering, and drug crimes.
Cephus Andrews, 33, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for conspiring with others to sell fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine in Ohio County. Andrews, one of nine defendants in a drug conspiracy, allowed his residence to serve as a stash house for the drugs. Investigators seized 7.5 grams of a fentanyl/heroin mixture and 3.35 grams of cocaine, along with drug paraphernalia and $1,095. The other eight defendants are awaiting trial currently scheduled to occur in April 2026.
Alyssa Marie Abrigg, 34, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison. Abrigg sold nearly a gram of fentanyl and half a gram of methamphetamine in the Warwood section of Wheeling. She has prior drug convictions.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Wheeling Police Department.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Wheeling Attorney Sentenced for Money Laundering and FraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - Wheeling Attorney Paul Harris was sentenced today to 97 months in federal prison for defrauding clients and money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
“Citizens should trust lawyers to protect their rights and interests, not to have their money stolen,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “Harris broke that trust, and the law, and now he will pay with time in prison.” Further, “this office will leave no stone unturned in pursuing full restitution to make the victims whole,” said Harvey.
A federal jury found Paul J. Harris, 62, of Wheeling, guilty in November 2025 of 29 counts. Harris used client funds for personal expenses, such as the purchase of his home and paying off the loan for his law office, without the clients’ permission. Harris received and moved funds from his client trust account to his law firm operating account, at times using one client’s money to pay funds he had misappropriated from other clients. The total loss for the victims in this case is $701,623.86.
Harris will self-report to prison on May 6, 2026.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Jennifer T. Conklin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government, and the matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey handed down the sentence and ordered the forfeiture of the property of Harris Law Offices in Wheeling, as well as $701,623.86 in restitution to the victims.
Detroit Man Sentenced for Role in Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Detroit, Michigan man was sentenced today for his role in a drug trafficking operation that distributed methamphetamine and fentanyl in Harrison County, West Virginia, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced.
Malik Rashard Fikes, also known as “Face,” was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison. Fikes was a supplier of drugs for the conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine and fentanyl from residence in Shinnston, WV.
Fikes will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
This case was investigated by the Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Former Wheeling Business Owner Admits to COVID FraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A former Wheeling business owner has admitted to fraud totaling nearly $300,000 in COVID relief funds, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Bradley Temple, 48, of Delray Beach, Florida (formerly of Wheeling, WV) pled guilty to unlawful money transactions. According to court documents and statements made in court, Temple, who operated Righteous Brother’s Trucking, applied for and received both a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan and an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) authorized by the CARES Act to assist small businesses and individuals who suffered substantial financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Temple made false representations regarding the business to obtain $277,456 in loans. Temple then used those funds for personal or non-permissible expenses including obtaining a $40,000 cashier’s check to purchase a vehicle.
Temple is facing up to 10 years in prison and will be required to pay restitution. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations and National Aeronautics and Space Administration Office of Inspector General (NASA OIG). NASA OIG is an active member of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force. The PRAC was established to promote transparency and facilitate coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 20 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending, including spending via the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This case was also supported by the PRAC’s Pandemic Analytics Center of Excellence, which applies the latest advances in analytic and forensic technologies to help OIGs and law enforcement pursue data-driven pandemic relief fraud investigations.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
West Virginia Cemetery Owner Admits to Fraud Involving Grave MarkersRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The owner of several cemeteries across North Central West Virginia has admitted to taking money intended for grave markers, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Jeffrey Phares, 65, of Fayetteville, West Virginia, pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Phares owned and operated four cemeteries including: Greenlawn Memorial Park in New Martinsville, Elkins Memorial Gardens in Elkins, Greenlawn Memorial Cemetery in Clarksburg, and Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens in Jane Lew. Phares defrauded customers by accepting payments and design approvals for grave markers, then misappropriated the funds for personal use. He repeatedly misled victims regarding delivery delays, resulting in an estimated total loss between $250,000 and $550,000.
As part of the plea agreement, Phares has agreed to pay restitution to the victims of his offense conduct, and to provide the government with all necessary documentation to determine the amount of restitution, which will be determined prior to sentencing.
Phares faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the FBI, the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wetzel County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Maryland Man Admits to Role in a Large-Scale Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Hagerstown, Maryland man has admitted to his part in a large-scale drug operation in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties that has ties to the Sinaloa Drug Cartel in Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
David Reyes, 61, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin. According to statements made in court, Reyes was a source of supply, organizer, and decision-maker within the drug conspiracy. Reyes worked with those in Puerto Rico to further the drug operation. Saul Alex Padilla-Garcia, the leader of the organization, and 17 others, including Reyes, were operating the fentanyl and cocaine trafficking operation out of an autobody shop in Martinsburg, West Virginia. The group imported significant amounts of drugs from Puerto Rico through the U.S. Postal Service as well as from a source connected to the Sinaloa Cartel.
Of the 18 defendants in this case, 12 have entered guilty pleas and 8 have been sentenced for their roles in the organization.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force was the lead investigative unit. Other investigative agencies that assisted include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, including the Pittsburgh, San Francisco, San Juan, and Philadelphia Field Offices; United States Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Postal Service; Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisville and Chicago Divisions; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Martinsburg Police Department; Ranson Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; Berkeley County Sheriff's Office; Jefferson County Sheriff's Office; West Virginia Air National Guard; Mineral County Sheriff's Office; Grant County Sheriff's Office; Hampshire County Sheriff's Department; Keyser Police Department; Northwest Regional Drug Task Force, Virginia; Pennsylvania State Police; Franklin County Sheriff's Office, Pennsylvania; Winchester Police Department, Virginia; Frederick County Sheriff's Office, Virginia; Virginia State Police; Sunnyvale Police Department, California.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Harrison County Man Admits to Trafficking Fentanyl, MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man has admitted to working with others to sell fentanyl and methamphetamine and possessing firearms in furtherance of his drug crimes, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Matthew Ryan Lester, 33, pleaded guilty to federal drug and firearm charges. According to court records, Lester admitted to conspiracy to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine and 40 grams of fentanyl as well as possession of firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes. Investigators recovered 900 grams of methamphetamine, 240 grams of fentanyl, multiple firearms, and more than $8,000 in cash during searches of his home and vehicle.
Lester is facing at least 10 years and up to life in prison for the drug count and faces at least 5 years for the firearms charge. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Philippi Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
West Virginia Doctor Sentenced for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - A Wheeling, West Virginia, physician was sentenced for tax fraud that totaled nearly $2.5 million, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced.
“Dr. Ratnakar cheated the system by avoiding tax payments,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “Tax fraud is stealing from all honest citizens and will not be tolerated in this district.”
Nitesh Ratnakar, age 50, was sentenced to 41 months in prison for 41 counts of tax fraud. Ratnakar owned and operated a gastroenterology practice and a medical equipment manufacturer in Elkins, West Virginia. He withheld payroll taxes from his employees’ paychecks and failed to make $2,419,560 in required payments to the Internal Revenue Service. Ratnakar also filed false tax returns in 2020, 2021, and 2022.
Ratnakar will serve one year of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod Douglas and Eleanor Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Virginia Man Admits to Identity Theft and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Henrico, Virginia man has admitted identity theft and money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Michael K. Vordjorbe, 30, pled guilty today to aggravated identity theft and transactional money laundering. According to court documents and statements made in court, Vordjorbe worked with others to withdraw funds from accounts at several banks, some in the Northern District of West Virginia, by assuming the identities of the account holders without their knowledge or permission. Once the funds were illegally obtained, Vordjorbe and others would deposit the money into another account to hide the theft. The total amount fraudulent funds obtained totaled $137,000 and total relevant conduct amount of the fraud was between $550,000 and $1.5 million.
Vordjorbe faces up to two years in prison for identity theft and faces up to 10 years for money laundering. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the FBI; the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations; the U.S. Postal Service, Loudon County, Virginia; and the Stamford, Connecticut Police Department.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Two Maryland Residents Admit to Drug Trafficking in the Eastern PanhandleRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Maryland residents have admitted to selling illegal narcotics in Berkeley County, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Terrell Antonio Henderson, 34, of Halethorpe, Maryland, pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of cocaine base. According to court records and his plea agreement, Henderson conspired with others to traffic drugs from Baltimore to the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. The investigation culminated in a controlled buy at a parking lot in Spring Mills, where law enforcement witnessed the transaction. A subsequent search of Henderson’s vehicle uncovered the buy money, additional drugs, and various drug paraphernalia.
In a separate matter, 31-year-old Elisa Owens of Hagerstown, Maryland, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine, cocaine base, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. Owens acted as a distributor for a trafficking ring operating between Hagerstown and Berkeley County, West Virginia. Following a period of surveillance, officers conducted a traffic stop and a probable cause search of her vehicle, which resulted in the seizure of cocaine.
Henderson and Owens each face up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration, Hagerstown, Maryland; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Maryland State Police; the Hagerstown Police Department; and the Washington County (MD) Sheriff’s Office.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Harrison County Man Admits to Selling Fentanyl Near SchoolsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man has admitted to selling fentanyl near two schools, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Joseph Angiulli, also known as “Joey,” 32, pled guilty to the distribution of fentanyl within 1000 feet of a protected location. According to court documents, Angiulli was selling fentanyl from his home, which is near North View Elementary School and Emmanuel Christian School, both protected locations.
Angiulli is facing at least one year and up to 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Three Charged for Interstate Wildlife ViolationsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three people are facing charges for illegally transported wildlife across state lines, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
A federal indictment charges Brian Poling, 51, of Albright, West Virginia; Levi S. Weaver,74, of Fredericksburg, Ohio; and Leroy M. Miller, 40, of Millersburg, Ohio; with violations of the Lacey Act. As charged in the indictment, Poling, the manager of Dream Mountain Ranch in Preston County, West Virginia, conspired with Miller and Weaver, to illegally transport in interstate commerce live deer without health certificates as required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
“West Virginians have long depended on a healthy and diverse wildlife population to feed our families, make memories, and enjoy our great outdoors.” said U.S. Attorney Harvey. “It is our shared heritage and will be protected.”
Under U.S. Department of Agriculture regulations, anyone who transports live deer in interstate commerce (across state lines) is required to ensure that the animals are accompanied by an Interstate Certificate of Veterinarian Inspection (ICV) and proof of a tuberculosis test. These regulations are aimed at curtailing the spread of a variety of deadly diseases including tuberculosis, brucellosis, and chronic wasting disease - a fatal, contagious neurological illness that can infect some deer and other animals like elk and moose. Additional information about cervid disease prevention and management is available here: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/cervid.
"The illegal transport of live deer poses a serious threat to people, wildlife, and the economy. Deer can carry deadly zoonotic diseases that may be spread to humans, livestock, and other animals. Without proper safeguards, outbreaks can occur that disrupt hunting traditions and jeopardize farm livelihoods,” said Doug Ault, Assistant Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement. “We remain firmly committed to working with our state and federal partners to protect the American public and preserve our nation's natural resources for sustainable use by future generations.”
"This investigation is a clear example of why partnerships between state and federal agencies are so vital,” said Col. Alberto Maza, director of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Division of Law Enforcement. "The investigators and agents involved in this case should be commended for their dedication and hard work that led to these charges.”
Poling, Weaver, and Miller each face up to 5 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 investigation was conducted by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Laboratory Agrees to Pay More than $200,000 for Improper Billing to West Virginia Medicaid ProgramRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –IntegraLabs, Inc. (Integra), a Tennessee based corporation, has agreed to pay a combined total of $208,624.40 to the United States of America and State of West Virginia for improper billings made to the West Virginia Medicaid Program. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia and the Office of the West Virginia Attorney General, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, partnered to hold this laboratory responsible for its False Claims Act violations.
“This joint effort between the Department of Justice and the State of West Virginia is an example of a successful federal and state partnership which yielded real results in combatting fraud, waste, and abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “I commend the investigative team for its skillful work in this matter and look forward to future cooperative endeavors to protect the West Virginia Medicaid program.”
"We are committed to protecting the integrity of West Virginia's Medicaid program and this settlement reflects that commitment and what is possible when state and federal partners work together. Fraudulent billing robs taxpayers and hurts the patients the program is designed to serve — and we will continue to pursue those who abuse it," Attorney General McCuskey said.
Integra provides laboratory services, including drug testing, and is enrolled in the West Virginia Medicaid Provider network. According to the settlement, the United States and State of West Virgina contend Integra violated the law by repeatedly submitting billings to the West Virginia Medicaid program for medically unnecessary testing ordered by medical providers over a two-year period. Specifically, it is alleged that Integra submitted improper claims for specimen validity testing that were not allowable.
This case was litigated on behalf of the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Prezioso and Jordan V. Palmer. It is the result of a cooperative investigation by the Department of Justice; the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, West Virginia Medicaid Fraud Control Unit; the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General; and the West Virginia Bureau for Medical Services.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
The West Virginia Attorney General Medicaid Fraud Control Unit receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $3,094,936.70 for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2026. The remaining 25 percent, totaling $1,031,645.56 for FY 2026, is funded by The State of West Virginia.
Tyler County Woman Admits to Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – An Alma, West Virginia woman is facing 15 years in prison after pleading to a methamphetamine charge, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Jamie Ann Tanner, 44, of Alma, West Virginia, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. During an investigation into Tanner’s drug activity, officers executed a search warrant at her home, where they seized more than 1200 grams of methamphetamine.
Tanner is facing 180 months in prison per the plea agreement. She will be sentenced at a later date.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office; and the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
This case is a part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Harrison County Man Indicted on Charges of Threatening the President and ICERead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man has been federally charged with making threats against President Donald J. Trump and Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
“Threats of violence and death against President Trump and our brave law enforcement partners will not be tolerated in the Northern District of West Virginia,” said U.S. Attorney Harvey. “We take threats seriously, regardless of how they are made, and will prosecute those who make them to the fullest extent of the law.”
Cody Lee Smith, 20, was indicted on two counts of threats to murder the President, one count of influencing and retaliating against federal officials by threat of murder, and one count of influencing a federal official by threat of murder. According to the indictment, Smith made a series of public posts on Instagram that encouraged and threatened the murder of President Trump, citizens who support the President (including members of the military), Israelis, and “all government officials.” The indictment also alleges that Smith sent a direct message via Instagram to Donald J. Trump, Jr., stating he would kill his father, President Trump, by cutting his “jugular.” In a phone call with the ICE tip line, Smith also threatened to kill ICE agents in Clarksburg, West Virginia and employee staffing the tip line.
"The safety and security of law enforcement personnel is our highest priority at Homeland Security Investigations," said HSI Washington, D.C. Special Agent in Charge Eric Weindorf. "HSI is committed to actively pursuing anyone who threatens the brave agents and officers who protect our communities. We will work tirelessly to investigate these threats and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”
“The safety and security of those we protect is our highest priority and all threats against the President of the United States will be investigated and prosecuted,” said Tad Lipscomb, the Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Charleston, West Virginia Resident Office. “We are grateful for our law enforcement partners at HSI, the FBI, the West Virginia State Police, and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, as well as the federal prosecutors at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia for their assistance during this case.”
Smith faces up to 5 years for each of the presidential threat charges and faces up to 10 years in federal prison for each of the remaining counts. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Secret Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
View the indictment here.
Parkersburg Man Admits to Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Wood County, West Virginia man has admitted to possessing methamphetamine in Ohio County, WV with the intent to distribute the drugs, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Jarrett Aaron Moran, 31, pled guilty today to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to court documents, Moran was traveling from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to deliver drugs to someone in West Virginia. The vehicle Moran was riding in was stopped by law enforcement, and officers seized 26 grams of methamphetamine, along with a small amount of cocaine and fentanyl.
Moran faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Morgantown Man Sentenced for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Morgantown, West Virginia man will spend the next 20 years in federal prison for multiple counts of receiving and possessing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Christopher Harp, 41, was sentenced today to 240 months in prison. Harp was convicted at trial in April 2024 of three counts of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.
“Despite Harp’s efforts to deny responsibility and place blame elsewhere, a jury of his peers found him guilty as charged. This sentence will ensure that his criminal activity is punished, and the community is protected,” said U.S. Attorney Harvey. “Child predators will be held accountable and face the maximum sentence in the Northern District of West Virginia.”
“Behind every image and every video is real child who has been harmed. Today’s sentence makes clear that exploitation of children in our community will never be tolerated.,” said FBI Pittsburgh Acting Special Agent in Charge Amie Loos. “The FBI and our partners will aggressively investigate these cases, bring every resource available to root out perpetrators, and hold offenders accountable for their crimes.”
FBI agents identified Harp as someone who was sharing and receiving child pornography online. Investigators searched his devices and flash drives, discovering hundreds of downloads, many of the videos and images including children under the age of 12. Evidence showed that Harp had been engaging in this illegal activity for nearly 10 years.
Harp will serve 10 years of supervised release following his prison sentence and was ordered to pay $30,000 in restitution to victims of child exploitation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Conklin and David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Four Admit to Federal Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Four people have entered guilty pleas in connection to methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking in the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Steven Anthony Blatt, 63, and Jeanetta Nicole Sigler, 50, both of Paden City, West Virginia, each pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Blatt, also known as “Stevie,” and Sigler worked together to sell methamphetamine in Wetzel and Tyler Counties. Following a trip to Morgantown to pick up drugs, officers stopped Blatt and Sigler and seized 427 grams of methamphetamine from their vehicle.
D'Angelo Jones, 29, of Wheeling, West Virginia, admitted to possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl. Jones was selling heroin and fentanyl in Ohio County. Investigators seized 20 grams of heroin and fentanyl, along with a firearm and $1,200 from his residence on Wheeling Island.
Roland N. Copney, 37, of Wheeling, West Virginia, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. During an investigation of gunshots being fired on Wheeling Island, Copney was identified as a possible subject. Officers executed a search warrant at his residence and seized more than 200 grams of methamphetamine, 12 grams of fentanyl, and ammunition.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clayton Reid and Jennifer Conklin are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Wheeling Police Department.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.