Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Wetzel County man sentenced for a firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Samuel Amos Minger, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Minger, 43, pleaded guilty in October 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Minger, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of prior offenses, admitted to having a six-shot revolver in November 2020 in Tyler County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Tyler County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Preston County man admits to wire fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dustin Miller, of Reedsville, West Virginia, has admitted to wire fraud, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Miller, 41, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud.” Miller admitted to working with others to stage a vehicle accident, fabricate injuries, and file false insurance claims. The crime occurred from March to July 2019 in Taylor and Preston Counties.
Miller faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. ATF and the West Virginia Insurance Commission Fraud Unit investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio man sentenced for selling cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Antonio Mario Hall, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 10 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Hall, age 29, pleaded guilty in November 2021 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Hall admitted to selling cocaine in Ohio County in January 2020.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid prosecuted 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 U.S. Marshal Service, Columbus Police Department Gang Crimes Unit, the Martins Ferry Police Department, and the Bellaire Police Department also assisted.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Ohio man sentenced for drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Rashaad Shadee Washington, of Pleasant City, Ohio, was sentenced today to 84 months of incarceration for drug charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Washington, 37, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location” and two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Washington admitted to selling methamphetamine, sometimes near McNinch Primary School, in Marshall County and Ohio County in February and March 2021.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Cleveland man sentenced to 10 years for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Genghis Taylor, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 120 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Taylor, also known as “G,” 38, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Taylor admitted to selling cocaine base, also known as “crack,” near Riverview Towers in Ohio County in May 2020.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Wheeling man sentenced for a firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Randolph Michael Smith, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 92 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Smith, 42, pleaded guilty in August 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Smith, a person prohibited from having firearms because of prior convictions, admitted to having a 9mm semi-automatic pistol in August 2020 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Florida man admits to unlawfully accessing IRS system and fraudulently filing tax returnsRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Keith Joseph, of Miami, Florida, has admitted to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Joseph, age 37, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Wire Fraud” and one count of “Aggravated Identity Theft.” Joseph admitted to fraudulently accessing the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) eAuthentication online taxpayer system, which has servers located in Berkeley County, from March 2015 to March 2017. Joseph obtained personal identifying information of taxpayers without their knowledge to gain access to the IRS online taxpayer system. Once he had access, Joseph unlawfully obtained income tax transcripts and fraudulently filed tax returns using the taxpayers’ personal identifying information.
As a part of the plea agreement, Joseph agreed to pay $142,237 in restitution.
Joseph faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the wire fraud count and two years of incarceration the aggravated identity theft 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 Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration Cybercrime Investigations Division investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Detroit man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Stewart Jenkins, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 33 months of incarceration for a cocaine charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Jenkins, 49, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Jenkins admitted to having cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in September 2020 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Columbus man sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Devante Crutez Taylor, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced today to 84 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Taylor, 29, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Taylor admitted to having 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in August 2019 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Wheeling Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Marshall County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Lonnie James Tanner, Jr., of Cameron, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Tanner, 53, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Tanner admitted to selling methamphetamine in July 2021 in Marshall County.
Tanner 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 Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Jefferson County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Lynch, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Lynch, 57, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Base and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Lynch admitted working with others to distribute cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” from July 2018 to June 2021 in Jefferson County and elsewhere.
Lynch 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; U.S. Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police, the DEA Task Force Montgomery County, Maryland; and the Frederick, Maryland, HIDTA group investigated. The EPDTF consists of the West Virginia State Police, Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Ranson Police Department, the Charles Town Police Department, and the Martinsburg Police Department.
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.
Charleston man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jalin Tyref Mcarn, of Charleston, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Mcarn, 27, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Mcarn, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a semi-automatic pistol in June 2021 in Tyler County.
Mcarn 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 Clayton J. Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Sistersville Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Jefferson County woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Crystal Farmer, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Farmer, 43, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Device.” Farmer admitted to using a phone to distribute drugs in June 2021 in Jefferson County and elsewhere.
Farmer faces up to four 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 FBI; U.S. Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police, the DEA Task Force Montgomery County, Maryland; and the Frederick, Maryland, HIDTA group investigated. The EPDTF consists of the West Virginia State Police, Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Ranson Police Department, the Charles Town Police Department, and the Martinsburg Police Department.
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.
Harrison County man sentenced for meth chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeremy Moser, of Shinnston, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 97 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Moser, 41, of Shinnston, West Virginia, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More Than Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Moser admitted to working with others to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine from February 2017 to June 2018 in Harrison County and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Original indictment release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/ohio-and-west-virginia-residents-indicted-drug-and-firearms-charges
Harrison County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Porter Critchfield, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, was sentenced today to seven months and 15 days of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Critchfield, 35, pleaded guilty in May 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Critchfield, a person prohibited from having a firearm, admitted to having a 9mm pistol in February 2016 in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Bridgeport Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Berkeley County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Branden Watson, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Watson, 38, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Watson admitted to selling cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in August 2020 in Berkeley County.
Watson faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher 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.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/34-indicted-expansive-drug-trafficking-operation
Texas man sentenced for role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Alcendor, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced today to 70 months of incarceration for his role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Alcendor, age 20, pleaded guilty in June 2021 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances,” one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Alcendor admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin from the spring of 2018 to October 2020 in Monongalia County and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI's Northern West Virginia Drug Task Force in partnership with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The Task Forces have members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Monongalia County Sheriff's Office; and, the Morgantown, WVU, Granville and Star City Police Departments. The investigation was also assisted by the following law enforcement partners: the Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI in Houston, Texas; the Houston Police Department's Multi Agency Gang Initiative; the United States Postal Inspection Service in Houston; and, the FBI and DEA in Los Angeles, California.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Martinsburg man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dehaven Darnell Craig, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 100 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Craig, age 34, pleaded guilty in February 2020 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Craig, prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a .380 caliber pistol in April 2018 in Jefferson County.
This case is the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Randolph County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – John C. Holliday, of Mill Creek, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Holliday, 31, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Holliday, a person prohibited from having a firearm, admitted to having two revolvers in July 2019 in Barbour County.
Holliday 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Jefferson County man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard Brent Collum, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, was indicted today on a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Collum, 36, was indicted today on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Collum, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, is accused of 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 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 Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Charles Town Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Grant County man sentenced for fentanyl chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Allen Hinkle, of Cabins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 77 months of incarceration for a fentanyl charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Hinkle, 36, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute at Least 40 Grams of Fentanyl.” Hinkle admitted to working with others to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl in April 2020 in Grant County and elsewhere.
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; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated. The Task Force consists of members from the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, the FBI, 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.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Original case press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/grant-and-hardy-county-residents-indicted-fentanyl-and-firearms-charges
Berkeley County man indicted on drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ronald Craig Fletcher, of Bunker Hill, West Virginia, was indicted today on drug and firearms charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Fletcher, 53, was indicted today on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Five Grams or More of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, aka “Ice”,” one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Eutylone,” one count of “Possess with Intent to Distribute Eutylone,” one count of “Possess with Intent to Distribute Five Grams or More of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, aka “Ice,” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime.” Fletcher is accused of trafficking methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” and Eutylone from January 2020 to June 2021 in Berkeley and Morgan Counties. Fletcher is also accused of having a .380 caliber firearm during a drug crime.
Fletcher faces at least five years and up to 40 years of incarceration for counts one and four, faces at least five years and up to life incarceration for count five, and faces up to 20 years of incarceration for counts two and three. 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; Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Northwest Virginia Regional Drug and Gang Task Force investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Preston County woman admits to wire fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cynthia Miller, of Newburg, West Virginia, has admitted to wire fraud, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Miller, 36, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud.” Miller admitted to working with others to stage a vehicle accident, fabricate injuries, and file false insurance claims. The crime occurred from March to July 2019 in Taylor and Preston Counties.
Miller faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. ATF and the West Virginia Insurance Commission Fraud Unit investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio County woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Tina Soper, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, First Assistant United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Soper, 43, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premise.” Soper admitted to maintaining a property on Edgewood Street in Wheeling that was used to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine hydrochloride in March 2021.
Soper 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 Clayton J. Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
New unit formed to combat health care fraud in West VirginiaRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A new initiative to combat health care fraud in West Virginia was launched today in Wheeling, according to United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld.
State and federal agencies gathered at the U.S. Attorney’s office this morning for the first meeting of the Mountaineer Health Care Fraud Strike Force, a unit that will take a data-driven approach to uncovering waste and abuse. Representatives from seven different agencies discussed fraudulent billing patterns and new targets were identified as a result.
In addition to its analytical work, the Strike Force will engage with providers and insurers so that there is a better understanding on how to recognize and report health care fraud.
“The time I spent in the private sector opened my eyes to the scope of the health care fraud that is occurring in West Virginia,” said Ihlenfeld. “It made me realize that more can and should be done by law enforcement, which is why this new group has been formed.”
Ihlenfeld stressed the importance of whistleblowers and the impact that they can have upon uncovering fraud.
“Oftentimes the first person to witness fraud is an employee of a hospital or a doctor’s office,” Ihlenfeld remarked. “Those who blow the whistle and expose conduct that the government was not able to detect on its own are awarded a portion of the amount recovered, and those awards can be substantial."
Last year, a whistleblower was awarded $10 million in the matter of U.S. ex rel. Longo v. Wheeling Hospital, Inc. Read more here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/west-virginia-hospital-agrees-pay-50-million-settle-allegations-concerning-improper
A new hotline, email address and mailing address have been established to allow for the reporting of potential fraud. Anyone with information may call (304) 234-7711, send an email to [email protected], or mail correspondence to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Attn: Mountaineer HCF Strike Force, P.O. Box 591, Wheeling, WV 26003.
“Fraud and abuse take critical resources out of our health care system and contribute to rising costs for everyone,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “It costs U.S. taxpayers tens of billions of dollars annually. The FBI, along with state, local and federal partners, are working side by side to help stop West Virginians from having to absorb the costs associated with health care fraud. I hope the community will use this tip line to aid us in our efforts to hold those who commit fraud accountable.”
“The newly formed team will combine the talents, dedication, and resources of federal law enforcement and the State of West Virginia to fight health care fraud, waste, and abuse,” said Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge for the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “We look forward to working with our law enforcement partners in this collaborative initiative to prevent and detect health care fraud, hold wrongdoers accountable, and ensure appropriate use of taxpayer funds.”
Members of the Mountaineer Health Care Fraud Strike Force include agents, officers and prosecutors from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources (HHS), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Department of Defense, the West Virginia Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the West Virginia Offices of Insurance Commission, and the United States Attorney’s Office.
Barbour County woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Kayla Lynn Jenkins, of Philippi, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Jenkins, 27, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Jenkins admitted to selling methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” and “ice,” in August 2020 in Barbour County.
Jenkins faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1 million. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Barbour County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Nicholas Joseph Buono, of Philippi, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Buono, 34, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Buono admitted to selling methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” and “ice,” in August 2020 in Barbour County.
Buono faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1 million. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Randolph County woman sentenced for meth distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Janice May White, of Kerens, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 41 months of incarceration for selling methamphetamine, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
White, age 40, pleaded guilty in January 2020 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine – Aiding and Abetting.” White admitted to selling methamphetamine in April 2019 in Randolph County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Ohio County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Cordale Antonio Williams, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, First Assistant United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Williams, 41, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Williams admitted to selling cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in June 2020 in Ohio County.
Williams 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, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Grant County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Bryan Edward Summerton, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II announced.
Summerton, 36, pleaded guilty in August 2021 to one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Crime.” Summerton admitted to having a 9mm pistol during drug trafficking in April 2020 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; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated. The Task Force consists of members from the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, the FBI, 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.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Original case press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/grant-and-hardy-county-residents-indicted-fentanyl-and-firearms-charges
Barbour County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – James Richard Cutright, of Philippi, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II announced.
Cutright, 34, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Cutright, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a 16-gauge shotgun in February 2020 in Barbour County.
Cutright 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County man admits to tax fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Travis A. Harner, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a tax charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Harner, 42, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Filing False Income Tax Return.” Harner admitted to understating his income by more than $204,000, resulting un unpaid and due tax of more than $69,000. The crime occurred in April 2019 in Monongalia County.
Harner is owner and operator of Talan Trucking & Excavating, LLC and Harner Construction, LLC, both in Morgantown. Harner failed to pay the IRS more than $433,000 resulting from both businesses and his personal income taxes from 2008 to 2019.
Harner faces up to three 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 Jarod J. Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Berkeley County woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ataiah J. Turner, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II announced.
Turner, also known as “Queen,” 25, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl.” Turner admitted to selling fentanyl in January 2021 in Berkeley County.
Turner 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 Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Belmont County man admits to drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – William Tyrone Stovall, of Bridgeport, Ohio, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Stovall, 36, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Stovall admitted to selling cocaine base, also known as “crack,” near Wheeling Central Catholic High School in Ohio County in August 2020.
Stovall faces at least one year and up to 40 years in prison 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.
Berkeley County man sentenced for role in firearms conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Detrick Lee Foston, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to four years of probation for his role in a firearms trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Foston, 25, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to one count of “False Statement During Purchase of Firearms.” Foston admitted to making false statements to a firearms dealer to purchase a .40 caliber pistol and a 9mm pistol in March 2020 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Virginia man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Terry William Jimenez Morales, of Strasburg, Virginia, was sentenced today to time served for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Morales, 26, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Morales admitted to having more than 85 grams of cocaine hydrochloride in March 2019 in Jefferson County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Ranson Police Department investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Mineral County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Donald Mark Tillotson, of Burlington, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 87 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Tillotson, 24, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Tillotson, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior felony conviction, admitted to having a .40 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number in January 2021 in Mineral County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Martinsburg man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brandon Leigh Gable, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 41 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Gable, 33, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Gable, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, admitted to having .380 caliber prison in September 2020 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and ATF investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Jefferson County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Aaron Patrick Stamets, of Charles Town, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 33 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Stamets, 43, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Stamets, a person prohibited from having a firearm, admitted to having two firearms in August of 2020 in Jefferson County.
This charge is the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally.
OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Charles Town Police Department investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Harrison County woman admits to drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Sandra Lynn Burt, of Wallace, West Virginia, has admitted to firearms and drug charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Burt, 51, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Fifty Grams or more of Methamphetamine” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Burt admitted to selling more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in August 2020 in Harrison County. Burt, a person prohibited from having firearms, admitted to having a .380 caliber piston in September 2020 in Harrison County.
Burt faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000,000 for the drug charge and faces up 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison 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.
Hampshire County man sentenced for role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Michael Bourne, of Shanks, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Bourne, age 37, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin. Fentanyl, and Cocaine Base.” Bourne admitted to working with another individual to distribute the controlled substances from January 2020 through October 2020.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Attorney’s Office worked closely with the Hampshire County Prosecutor’s Office to bring this case forward. In addition, the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crime task Force, a HIDTA funded initiative, investigated. The task force is comprised of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the FBI, the West Virginia State Police, the Mineral County Sheriff's Office, the Hampshire County Sheriff's Office, the Hardy County Sheriff's Office, the Keyser Police Department, and the Grant County Sheriff's Office
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Detroit man sentenced for his role in a drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Doriawn Eduane-Draphel Rogers, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to time served for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Rogers, 21, pleaded guilty in August 2021 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Rogers admitted to distributing heroin and fentanyl near Fairmont Senior High School and Fairmont State University in August 2020.
Rogers 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Berkeley County woman sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tammy Jean Holmes, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Holmes, 35, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin and Fentanyl Mixture.” Holmes admitted to working with another to sell heroin and fentanyl in August 2019 in Berkeley County.
This charge is the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally.
OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuting 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.
Barbour County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Kyle Richard Lantz, II, of Philippi, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Lantz, 38, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Machinegun.” Lantz admitted to having a machinegun in August 2019 in Barbour County.
Lantz faces up 10 years 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ihlenfeld to lead regional drug interdiction effortsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld has been named chairperson of the Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Executive Board and will now lead efforts in the region to combat the trafficking of fentanyl and other illicit substances.
The Appalachia HIDTA is comprised of drug task forces from Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, and was responsible for nearly 2,400 drug arrests in 2021, along with the seizure of substantial quantities of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, as well as firearms.
“It’s an honor to be asked to serve in this capacity and I’ll use the opportunity to strengthen the region’s response to the alarming increase in drug overdoses, many of which are being caused by fentanyl,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld.
Appalachia HIDTA Executive Director Vic Brown met with Ihlenfeld today in Wheeling to discuss strategies to combat the drug epidemic in West Virginia.
“United States Attorney Ihlenfeld is a highly respected law enforcement professional, and his leadership and expertise will be of tremendous benefit to the Appalachia HIDTA Executive Board,” said Director Brown.
Fentanyl is now the leading cause of death in those aged 18-45 in the United States, according to the CDC. The Northern District of West Virginia has seen fentanyl-related overdose deaths more than double, and the amount seized in the district in the last year was enough to kill nearly half its population.
“The financial and intelligence resources provided by the Appalachia HIDTA allow our task forces to dismantle and disrupt organizations that bring illicit substances to West Virginia and surrounding states,” said Ihlenfeld. “We will leverage those resources in 2022 to target fentanyl traffickers operating in the United States and abroad.”
Ihlenfeld previously served as Vice Chairperson and Budget Chair for the AHIDTA Executive Board.
Gilmer County man admits to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas Reed Ratliff, of Glenville, West Virginia, has admitted to a child pornography charge, First Assistant United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Ratliff, 26, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Ratliff admitted to having child pornography videos from August to November 2020 in Gilmer County.
Ratliff 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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Barbour County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Matthew Scott Mayle, of Philippi, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Mayle, 36, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Mayle admitted to selling more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in April 2019 in Barbour County.
Mayle faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10 million. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Jefferson County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Camren Allen Klimes, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Klimes, also known as “Cam,” 27, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Base and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Klimes admitted to working with others to distribute drugs from July 2018 to June 2021 in Jefferson County and elsewhere.
Klimes 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; U.S. Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police, the DEA Task Force Montgomery County, Maryland; and the Frederick, Maryland, HIDTA group investigated. The EPDTF consists of the West Virginia State Police, Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Ranson Police Department, the Charles Town Police Department, and the Martinsburg Police Department.
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.
Hardy County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jesse Michael Ferrell, of Moorefield, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Ferrell, 42, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Ferrell admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” and “ice,” in October 2020 in Hardy County.
Ferrell, as a part of his plea, agreed to forfeit the following:
- a Sporter (AK), 7.62x39 caliber, semi-automatic rifle;
- a Kel-Tec CNC, Inc., model P-11, 9mm caliber, semi-automatic Luger pistol;
- a magazine containing ten (10) rounds of 9mm caliber ammunition;
- a box containing forty (40) rounds of 9mm Tulamo ammunition;
- a box containing fifty (50) rounds of 9mm PPM ammunition;
- a box containing forty (40) rounds of 9mm Blazer ammunition;
- three (3) rounds of 9mm caliber ammunition; and
- $1,169.00 cash.
Ferrell 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; ATF; the West Virginia State Police; the Grant County Sheriff’s Office; and the Moorefield Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Barbour County man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Caleb Andrew Beverly, of Philippi, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Beverly, 23, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Beverly, a person prohibited from having firearms, had two .25 caliber semi-automatic pistols in November 2020 in Barbour County.
Beverly, as a part of the plea, agreed to forfeit the following:
- A High Point, model 4595, .45 caliber rifle;
- An Arms Corporation of the Philippines (Armscorp), model 16, .22 caliber rifle;
- One Hundred Fifty-two (152) rounds of assorted ammunition;
- A Raven Arms, model MP-25, .25 caliber semi-automatic pistol;
- A Sundance Industries, Inc., model BOA, .25 caliber semi-automatic pistol;
- Assorted firearm parts.
Beverly 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.