Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Harrison County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony R. Riley, II, of Shinnston, West Virginia, has admitted a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Riley, 25, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Riley, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a 9mm pistol in February 2021 in Harrison County.
Riley faces up to 10 years of incarceration and fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Shinnston Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Detroit man admits to his role in a drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kaemon Bernard-Donyell King, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
King, also known as “Twin,” 20, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl in Proximity to a Protected Location.” King admitted to selling fentanyl near Fairmont Senior High School and Fairmont State University in July 2020 in Marion County.
King faces at least one and up 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force and the Fairmont Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/west-virginia-and-detroit-residents-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation
Berkeley County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Shane Worrell, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, has admitted a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Worrell, 28, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Worrell, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a 9mm pistol in June 2020 in Berkeley County.
Worrell faces up to 10 years of incarceration and fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Wetzel County woman admits to mail fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Rhonda Kay Spencer, of Pine Grove, West Virginia, has admitted to mail fraud, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Spencer, 52, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Mail Fraud.” At the time of the offense, Spencer was employed as the Recorder for the Town of Pine Grove, West Virginia. Spencer submitted an application to WorkForce West Virginia, requesting CARES Act unemployment distributed by the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program in April 2020. Spencer then submitted weekly certifications to WorkForce, falsely stating that she was unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Spencer obtained approximately $14,308 during this scheme.
Spencer faces up 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Auditor’s Office Public Integrity Fraud Unit and WorkForce West Virginia Office of Inspector General investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Pennsylvania man indicted for bank robberiesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William J. Birdsall, of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, was indicted today in connection to two bank robberies, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Birdsall, 50, was indicted today on two counts of “Bank Robbery.” Birdsall is accused of robbing the Bank of Romney in Hampshire County on September 22, 2021, taking $13,420 in cash. He is also charged with robbing the M&T Bank in Mineral County on February 3, 2022, taking $1,200 in cash.
Birdsall is facing up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley D. Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Martinsburg man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Travis Jackson Latta, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was indicted today on a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Latta, 34, is charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Latta, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a felony conviction, is accused of having a 9mm pistol in May 2020 in Berkeley County.
Latta is facing up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Martinsburg Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Jefferson County man indicted on failure to register chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jordan Paul Plotner, of Charles Town, West Virginia, was indicted today on a failure to register charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Plotner is charged with one count of “Failure to Register.” Plotner, a person required to register as a sex offender because of a prior conviction, is accused of traveling across state lines without updating his information in the sex offender registry from April to November 2021 in Jefferson County and elsewhere.
Plotner is facing up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor F. Hurney is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former inmate indicted on drug chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Hollie D. Adkins, an inmate formerly housed at Federal Correctional Institution Hazelton, was indicted today on contraband charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Adkins, 34, was indicted today on one count of “Conspiracy to Introduce and Obtain a Prohibited Object (Narcotic)” and one count of “Attempt to Introduce a Prohibited Object (Narcotic).” Adkins is accused of working with others to smuggle suboxone into FCI Hazelton from the summer of 2021 to October 2021 in Preston County.
Adkins is facing up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the conspiracy charge and faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the attempt charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Services and the DEA investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Clarksburg man indicted on drug chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jesse James Wilson, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was indicted today on drug charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Wilson, 38, was indicted today on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine,” two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession of Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime,” one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises,” and one count of “Removing Property Subject to Forfeiture.” Wilson is accused of trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine from the summer of 2021 to October 2021 in Harrison County and elsewhere. Wilson is accused of maintaining a property on Chestnut Street in Clarksburg to further this conspiracy.
As a part of the indictment, the government is seeking Wilson to forfeit four firearms, ammunition, more than $9,000 in cash, and 27 pre-paid gift cards.
Wilson is facing up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the conspiracy count and each of the distribution counts. He faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration for the 50 grams or more count. Wilson faces at least five years and up to life of incarceration for the use of a firearm during a crime of violence count. He also faces up to five years of incarceration for the removing property count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the DEA; the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; and the Martinsburg Police investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Taylor County woman sentenced to 28 years for child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ashley Marie Weber, of Thornton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 336 months of incarceration for a child pornography charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Weber, 39, pleaded guilty in October 2021 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Production of Child Pornography.” Weber admitted to using a minor child to engage in sexually explicit conduct and producing child pornography from that conduct in June 2020 in Taylor County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Taylor County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Illinois woman sentenced for counterfeit chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Asante James, of Freeport, Illinois, was sentenced today to time served for a counterfeit charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
James, 22, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to one count of “Possession of Counterfeit Obligations.” James admitted to having sixty-nine $100 counterfeit bills in December 2020 in Ritchie County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service, the Ritchie County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Charleston Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Illinois woman sentenced for counterfeit chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Clarissa Mosley, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced today to time served for a counterfeit charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Mosley, 25, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to one count of “Possession of Counterfeit Obligations.” Mosley admitted to having sixty-nine $100 counterfeit bills in December 2020 in Ritchie County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service, the Ritchie County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Charleston Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Georgia man admits to fentanyl and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dextavious McCurry, of Commerce, Georgia, has admitted to drug and firearms charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
McCurry, 29, pleaded guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” McCurry admitted to having heroin and fentanyl in January 2021 in Berkeley County. McCurry, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, also admitted to having a 9mm pistol.
McCurry faces up 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the drug charge and faces up to to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
FCI Gilmer inmate sentenced for indecent exposureRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Darius McNeal, an inmate at Federal Corrections Institution Gilmer, was sentenced today to eight months of incarceration for indecent exposure, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
McNeal, 20, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to three counts of “Indecent Exposure.” McNeal admitted to exposing himself and committing sexual acts in front of another person on three separate occasions in November 2019m December 2019, and June 2020 in Gilmer County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Prisons investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Randolph County man sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Billy Ray Shamblin, II, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Shamblin, 37, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Shamblin admitted to selling methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” and “ice,” in February 2020 in Randolph County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Monongalia County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Woody, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Woody, 42, pleaded guilty today to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Woody admitted to distributing methamphetamine in April 2020 in Monongalia County.
Woody faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI's Northern West Virginia Drug Task Force in partnership with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The Task Forces have members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Monongalia County Sheriff's Office; and, the Morgantown, WVU, Granville and Star City Police Departments. The investigation was also assisted by the following law enforcement partners: the Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI in Houston, Texas; the Houston Police Department's Multi Agency Gang Initiative; the United States Postal Inspection Service in Houston; and, the FBI and DEA in Los Angeles, California.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Martinsburg man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Damian Lovett, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Lovett, 39, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Base and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Lovett admitted to working with others to distribute cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” from November 2020 to March 2021 in Berkeley County and elsewhere.
Lovett faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; the United States Marshals Service; the Department of Homeland Security; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; and the Washington County, Maryland, Narcotics Task Force investigated.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Martinsburg man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ryan Ramney, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Ramney, 38, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Ramney admitted to having cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” in July 2021 in Berkeley County.
Ramney faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor F. Hurney is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Department of Homeland Security investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Grant County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeremiah Lincoln Seib, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years of probation for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Seib, 42, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Seib, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a robbery conviction, admitted to having a .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol in December 2020 in Grant County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Cleveland man admits to drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jontue Coleman, of Cleveland, Ohio, has admitted to his involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Coleman, age 45, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base, Cocaine Hydrochloride, Methamphetamine, and Heroin.” Coleman admitted to working with others to sell cocaine base, cocaine hydrochloride, methamphetamine, and heroin in Ohio County, the Southern District of Ohio, and elsewhere from June 2019 to August 2021.
Coleman faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, which includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department, investigated. The Belmont County Sheriff’s Office and the St. Clairsville Police Department assisted.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Wheeling woman admits to drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Samantha Frost, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to her involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Frost, age 38, pleaded guilty today to one count of "Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Hydrochloride within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Frost admitted to working with others to sell cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” near North Park Apartments in Ohio County in January 2020.
Frost faces at least one and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, which includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department, investigated. The Belmont County Sheriff’s Office and the St. Clairsville Police Department assisted.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Wheeling man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Edgar Eugene Hatten, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Hatten, 41, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Hatten admitted to selling methamphetamine near Clator Playground in Wheeling on July 20, 2021.
Hatten faces at least one year and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Martinsburg man sentenced to more than 12 years for drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Ian Andre Carr, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 151 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Carr, 50, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl and Heroin.” Carr admitted to distributing the substances in February 2018 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Martinsburg man sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kasem Damone Humphrey, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to four years of probation for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Humphrey, 37, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Humphrey admitted to distributing heroin in October 2017 in Jefferson County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Marshall County woman admits to drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Brooke Janine Hayes, of Moundsville, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Hayes, 39, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” and to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” Hayes admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine in Marshall County from February to April 2021, as well as selling methamphetamine near Golden Towers in Marshall County in March 2021.
Hayes faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the conspiracy count and faces at least one and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for the distribution near a protected location count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Hardy County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Scott Allen Greenwalt, of Moorefield, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Greenwalt, 49, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Greenwalt admitted to having more than five grams or more of methamphetamine in April 2021 in Hardy County.
Greenwalt faces at least five and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Berkeley County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Edson Velasquez-Lopez, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Velasquez-Lopez, 51, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Use of a Communication Device.” Velasquez-Lopez admitted to using a phone to distribute cocaine hydrochloride in March 2021 in Berkeley County.
Velasquez-Lopez faces up to four years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher and Timothy D. Helman are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Grant County man sentenced for drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jay Dean Hall, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 106 months of incarceration for drug and firearms charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Hall, 56, pled guilty in December 2020 to on one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Crime.” Hall admitted to using his home on Spencer Drive in Petersburg as a drug distribution location and having a 9mm rifle in his home. The crimes occurred in August 2019 in Grant County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Detroit man admits to his role in a drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Derek David Henderson of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Henderson, 42, pleaded guilty today to one count of Distribution of Five Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Henderson admitted to working with another to sell more than five grams of methamphetamine in May 2019.
Henderson faces at least five and up 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force and the Fairmont Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/west-virginia-and-detroit-residents-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation
Hancock County woman admits to money launderingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jacque Phillips, of Weirton, West Virginia, has admitted to money laundering, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Phillips, also known as “Jacque Phillips-Brown,” 33, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Money Laundering.” Phillips was employed as a billing manager at a medical billing company in Steubenville, Ohio. Beginning in January 2018 through March 2019, Phillips defrauded her employer, her employer’s patients, and insurance companies out of more than $100,000. Phillips used the financial services company Square, Inc. by linking her personal bank accounts to the Square, Inc. accounts she registered in her employer’s name. Phillips then used those Square accounts to transfer funds paid to her employer, some from insurance and health care benefits programs, into her personal accounts.
Phillips faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Wheeling woman admits to drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Melissa Joann Hibbitts, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to her involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Hibbitts, age 35, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base, Cocaine Hydrochloride, Methamphetamine, and Heroin.” Hibbitts admitted to working with others to sell cocaine base, also known as “crack,” cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” and methamphetamine from June 2019 to August 2021 in Ohio County and elsewhere, including the Southern District of Ohio.
Hibbitts faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, which includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department, investigated. The Belmont County Sheriff’s Office and the St. Clairsville Police Department assisted.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Ohio man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Reuben Jahmell Dauntez Donald, of Akron, Ohio, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Donald, 36, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Donald admitted to selling methamphetamine in October 2021 near Jensen Playground on Wheeling Island.
Donald faces at least one and up to 40 years of incarceration and fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Ohio man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Andre Duana Bundy, of Youngstown, Ohio, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Bundy, 39, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Bundy admitted to selling 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in August 2021 in Hancock County.
Bundy faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and fine of up to $10,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration Wheeling; the Drug Enforcement Administration Youngstown; and the Ohio Highway Patrol investigated. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Mahoning County, Ohio Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Inmate indicted for assault chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Billy Moore, a former inmate at USP Hazelton in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, was indicted today on an assault charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Moore, 24, was indicted today on one count of “Assault of a Correctional Officer Involving Physical Contact.” Moore is accused of assaulting a corrections officer in March 2021 at USP Hazleton.
Moore is facing up to eight years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Prisons investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County man indicted for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Lee Starkey, Jr., of Mount Clare, West Virginia, was indicted today on a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Starkey, 28, was indicted today on one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Starkey, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of previous convictions, is accused of having semi-automatic pistol in July 2021 in Taylor County.
Starkey is facing up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Fairmont man indicted for theft of 13 firearmsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jesse Ross Duke, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was indicted today on a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Duke, 34, was indicted today on one count of “Theft of Firearms.” Duke is accused of taking 13 firearms that included pistols, rifles, shotguns, and revolvers, from a licensed firearms dealer in June 2021 in Marion County.
Duke is facing up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Detroit man indicted for methamphetamine and fentanyl distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cedrick Dion Tyron Griffin, of Detroit, Michigan, was indicted today on a methamphetamine charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Griffin, also known as “Tay,” 23, was indicted today on one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 grams of More of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 40 grams or more of Fentanyl,” one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 40 grams or more of Fentanyl,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Griffin is accused of having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and more than 40 grams of fentanyl in May and June 2021 in Monongalia County. Authorities also seized more than $27,000 in connection with the case.
Griffin faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration for the 50 grams or more of methamphetamine charge. He faces at least five years and up to 40 years of incarceration for each of the 40 grams or more of fentanyl counts. Griffin is facing up to 20 years of incarceration for each of the remaining counts. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Berkeley County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Demitre McCoy White, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
White, 40, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Device.” White admitted to using a phone to help distribute heroin in December 2020 in Berkeley County.
White faces up to four years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher and Timothy D. Helman are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Randolph County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Dewayne Simmons, of Elkins, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Simmons, 29, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine—Aiding and Abetting.” Simmons admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 2020 in Randolph County.
Simmons faces up to 20 years of incarceration and fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Randolph County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Albert Perry Shreve, III, of Elkins, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Shreve, 43, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Shreve admitted to selling methamphetamine in Randolph County in April 2021.
Shreve faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio man admits to selling cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroinRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kaprice D. Russell, of Steubenville, Ohio, has admitted to drug charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Russell, age 34, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base, Cocaine Hydrochloride, Methamphetamine, and Heroin,” “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Hydrochloride within 1000 feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Russell admitted to working with others to sell cocaine base, cocaine hydrochloride, methamphetamine and heroin from June 2019 to August 2021 in Ohio County and elsewhere, including the Southern District of Ohio.
Russell f faces at least one year and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for the aiding and abetting near a protected location charge and faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each of the other charges. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, which includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department, investigated. The Belmont County Sheriff’s Office and the St. Clairsville Police Department assisted.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Eastern Panhandle woman admits to bank fraudRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ana Amesquita, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, has admitted to bank fraud, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Amesquita, 26, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Bank Fraud.” Amesquita was the head teller at the Inwood branch of City National Bank. In June 2019, Amesquita began a scheme to process ATM deposits without the supervision of a second bank employee, violating the bank’s policy. She would then take some of the cash for her own personal use and misrepresent the facts in the general ledger.
As a part of the plea agreement, Amesquita agreed to pay $144,661 in restitution to the bank.
Amesquita faces up to 30 years of incarceration and fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Secret Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Barbour County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph Wayne Dadisman, of Philippi, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Dadisman, 49, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Dadisman admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” and “ice,” in June 2021 in Barbour County.
Dadisman faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug Task Force and the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Maryland man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Darren Anthony Burnett, of Hagerstown, Maryland, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Burnett, 38, pleaded guilty today on one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.” Burnett admitted to having a 9mm pistol while trafficking cocaine and marijuana in October 2020 in Berkeley County.
Burnett faces at least five years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley D. Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Jefferson County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard Brent Collum, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Collum, 36, pleaded guilty today on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Collum, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a .45 caliber handgun in August 2021 in Jefferson County.
Collum faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Charles Town Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Wheeling man admits to drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – William Hinton, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Hinton, also known as “Abu Twoseventeeen,” age 49, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base, Cocaine Hydrochloride, Methamphetamine, and Heroin” and one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Hinton admitted to working with others to sell cocaine base, also known as “crack,” cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” and methamphetamine from June 2019 to August 2021 in Ohio County and elsewhere, including the Southern District of Ohio.
Hinton faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, which includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department, investigated. The Belmont County Sheriff’s Office and the St. Clairsville Police Department assisted.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Randolph County man admits to meth chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Dustin Allen Summerfield, of Beverly, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Summerfield, age 30, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Summerfield admitted to selling methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” and “ice,” in October 2020 in Randolph County.
Summerfield faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,0000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Michigan to Morgantown Drug Ring Disrupted by Federal IndictmentRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eleven people have been indicted for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy that caused large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine to flow from Detroit to West Virginia, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
A 35-count indictment unsealed today alleges that the defendants – eight of whom are from the Detroit area - conspired to sell illicit drugs from October 2020 to February 2022 in Monongalia County and elsewhere.
“We continue to see a significant influx of drugs from Detroit to the Morgantown region,” said Ihlenfeld. “The collaboration by law enforcement agencies in West Virginia with those in Michigan ensures that drug traffickers who operate across state lines will be held accountable.”
Those charged are:
- William Trice, 31, of Eastpointe, Michigan
- Rico Crawford, 39, of Canton, Michigan
- Addonis Moore, 27, of Detroit, Michigan
- Jovonne Haynes, 26, of Detroit, Michigan
- Giovanni George, 32, of Taylor, Michigan
- Lewis Johnson, 34, of Detroit, Michigan
- Lloyd Vaughn, 27, of Detroit, Michigan
- Kenneth Jones, 27, of Detroit, Michigan
- Dayshawn Burton, 26, of Hamilton, Ohio
- Adrianna Bean, 21, of Morgantown, West Virginia
- Derrick Hamlet, 27, of Morgantown West Virginia
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration Clarksburg RO; the FBI Clarksburg RA; the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; the Morgantown Police Department; WVU Police Department; the DEA Cincinnati District Office; the DEA Detroit Field Division; and the FBI Detroit investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Read the indictment here:
Trice et al Filed IndictmentMarion County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jackson Skye Yeager, of Farmington, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Yeager, 28, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Yeager, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a domestic violence conviction, admitted to having a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol in February 2020 in Marion County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives and Fairmont Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Preston County man admits to role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Gamble, of Masontown, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Gamble, age 57, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Gamble admitted to working with another to distribute methamphetamine in April 2020 in Monongalia County.
Gamble faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI's Northern West Virginia Drug Task Force in partnership with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The Task Forces have members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Monongalia County Sheriff's Office; and, the Morgantown, WVU, Granville and Star City Police Departments. The investigation was also assisted by the following law enforcement partners: the Preston County Sheriff's Office, the Mineral County Sheriff's Office, the Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI in Houston, Texas; the Houston Police Department's Multi Agency Gang Initiative; the United States Postal Inspection Service in Houston; and, the FBI and DEA in Los Angeles, California.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/25-people-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation-spanned-several-states