Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Morgantown man sentenced for role in a drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kenneth Burns, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 13 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Burns, 35, pled guilty in May 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” Burns admitted to using a phone to help sell fentanyl, cocaine base, and heroin in March 2020 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
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.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Related press release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/seventeen-people-charged-heroin-and-crack-cocaine-distribution-operation
Martinsburg man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dwayne Paige, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Paige, 47, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl and Heroin.” Paige admitted to selling heroin and fentanyl in December 2018 in Berkeley County.
Paige faces at least 10 years and up to 13 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 Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Washington County, Maryland Task Force investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Inmate indicted in connection with inmate deathRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joenell L. Rice, an inmate currently housed at USP Allenwood in Pennsylvania, is facing a voluntary manslaughter and assault charges in the death of another inmate, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Rice, 34, was indicted on one count of “Voluntary Manslaughter” and one count of “Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.” Rice, formerly housed at USP Hazelton in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, is accused of assaulting inmate D.G. by striking him in the head multiple times, killing him. The crime occurred at USP Hazelton in October 2017.
Rice faces up to 15 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the manslaughter charge and faces up to 10 years of incarceration and fine of up to $250,000 for the assault 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 Federal Bureau of Prisons, Special Investigative Services investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Clarksburg man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jo-El Rene Torres, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Torres, 36, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl.” Torres admitted to having heroin and fentanyl in May 2020 in Upshur County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Lakes Drug Task Force, the West Virginia State Police, the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, and the Buckhannon Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Tyler County man admits to tax violationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Roger Lee Stevens, of Middlebourne, West Virginia, is facing tax fraud charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Stevens, 63, pleaded guilty to one count of “Corrupt Endeavor to Obstruct or Impede the Due Administration of the Internal Revenue Laws.” Stevens admitted to failing to pay income taxes from 2005 to 2009. The IRS issued a notice to Stevens, and later to Stevens’ bank, that his assets would be levied to pay the debt owed to the IRS. As the IRS began directing the bank to turn over funds in Stevens’ account, Stevens began removing funds from the account to impede the IRS from collecting the debt.
Stevens also agreed to pay $86,207 to the IRS in restitution.
Stevens 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 Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The IRS investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Ohio woman admits to embezzling from Wetzel County businessRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Cheryl M. Zambori, of St. Clairsville, Ohio, has admitted to an embezzlement charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Zambori, 50, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Wire Fraud.” Zambori was employed as a Finance Manager at Litman Excavating, Inc. in New Martinsville, West Virginia. Beginning in July 2016, Zambori began a scheme to take $317,290.53 from the Litman business account held at a bank in Wheeling, West Virginia, and transfer funds to her personal accounts held out of state.
As a part of the plea agreement, Zambori has agreed to pay restitution to Litman Excavating, Inc. in the amount of $317,290.53.
Zambori faces up to 20 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 Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Postal Service Inspection Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Illinois woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joanna Masias, of Cicero, Illinois, has admitted to attempting to smuggle suboxone into FCI Gilmer in Glenville, West Virginia, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Masias, 36, pled guilty to one count of “Attempt to Introduce a Prohibited Object (Narcotic).” Masias admitted to working with two inmates at the facility to attempt to smuggle suboxone into FCI Gilmer in April 2019.
Masias 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 Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Services investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Michigan man sentenced for his role in a drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Darius Dashawn Wade, of Gross Pointe, Michigan, was sentenced today to 57 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Wade, 27, pleaded guilty in May 2021 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Fentanyl.” Wade admitted to selling fentanyl in August 2019 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
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.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Related press release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/seventeen-people-charged-heroin-and-crack-cocaine-distribution-operation
Detroit man sentenced for his role in a drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Alonzo Travis, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 57 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Travis, 28, pled guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.” Travis worked with another to distribute one to three kilograms of heroin in March 2020 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
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.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Related press release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/seventeen-people-charged-heroin-and-crack-cocaine-distribution-operation
U.S. Attorney’s Office presents Medicolegal Symposium to discuss the case against Reta Mays, convicted VA hospital murdererRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of West Virginia, is teaming up with Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, the FBI, and West Virginia University to hold a symposium discussing the cutting-edge methods used to convict a serial killer who preyed on veterans at the veteran’s hospital in Clarksburg.
In May 2021, Reta Mays, a former nursing assistant at the veteran’s hospital in Clarksburg, was sentenced to seven life terms in prison plus 20 years for murdering seven patients with insulin and attempting to murder an eighth veteran. The two-year investigation that preceded the July 2020 guilty pleas was highly complex.
The symposium consists of examining the clinical, forensic, psychiatry, and legal prosecution techniques used to ensure justice for Mays’ victims and their families. The prosecution team, investigators, and experts from around the globe will be presenting during this dynamic event. The symposium has been approved for CLE and CME credits. Credits for LE in-service are pending.
“The Medicolegal Symposium on the Serial Murder Case of Reta Mays” will be held at the WVU College of Law on Thursday, October 14 from 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Space is limited. Registration for in-person attendance must be submitted by September 14, 2021.
The training will also be available virtually via the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of West Virginia’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/usaondwv. Registration for virtual attendance must be received no later than October 12, 2021.
Medical professionals and medical students, attorneys and law students, criminal investigators and criminal justice students are welcome to attend. Registration is free but is required. For more information or to register, go to justice.gov/usao-ndwv.
Watch Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas discuss the symposium here: https://youtu.be/FIG0Oef6RYA
Texas man admits to sending obscene material to a minorRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marcus Moreno, of LaVilla, Texas, has admitted to sending inappropriate pictures to a minor, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Moreno, 27, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Transfer of Obscenity to Minor.” Moreno began communicating with a minor located in Berkeley County, West Virginia, via social media applications such as Snapchat, KIK, WhatsApp, and the minor’s school email accounts. The victim’s parents turned over her phone to investigators. Forensics revealed thousands of text messages, chats, and video communications between the victim and Moreno, dating from October 2018 to January 2019, when the victim was 15 years old. The investigation further revealed thousands of images of child pornography of the victim and obscene pornographic images of Moreno.
In May 2019, during execution of a search warrant Moreno gave a voluntary statement to agents saying he met the victim online in a chat room when she had just turned 14. Three weeks after that first conversation, they began online dating. Though never meeting in person, he told investigators he planned to marry the victim when she turned 18. He admitted to sending obscene images of himself to the victim. During the search of his home, the FBI found thousands of other graphic files and video files of the victim on several flash drives and devices.
Moreno 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.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley D. Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Fayette County man sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Darrell Ernest Reese, of Robson, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 77 months of incarceration for heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Reese, age 44, pled guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Reese admitted to working with another to distribute heroin in March 2019 in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Detroit man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tyrone Wyatt-Smith, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 46 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Wyatt-Smith, also known as “Fetty,” 29, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” Wyatt-Smith admitted to selling Oxycodone in April 2019 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Wheeling man admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Scott Everly, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Everly, also known as “Capt,” 70, pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Everly admitted to selling methamphetamine near Riverview Towers in Wheeling in July 2019.
Everly 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 admits to drug distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kasem Damone Humphrey, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Humphrey, 37, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Humphrey admitted to distributing heroin in October 2017 in Jefferson County.
Humphrey 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.
Detroit man sentenced to seven years for his role in a drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tyron Terreono Adams, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 84 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Adams, 26, pled guilty in April 2021 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Cocaine Base,” one count of “Travel Act – Promotion,” four counts of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility,” two counts of “Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.” Adams admitted to working with others to distribute fentanyl, cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and heroin from March 2018 to September 2020 in Monongalia County and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
This prosecution 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.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Related press release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/seventeen-people-charged-heroin-and-crack-cocaine-distribution-operation
Mineral County attorney sentenced for fraud chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Mark Sirk, an attorney who lives in Keyser, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years of probation for a fraud charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Sirk, 63, pleaded guilty in April 2021 to one count of “Wire Fraud.” Sirk, a court-appointed attorney in Mineral County, admitted to submitting at least 33 fraudulent pay vouchers for his alleged public defender legal services. He also admitted to forging the signature of a Circuit Court Judge when submitting these vouchers. The crime occurred from December 2016 to June 2018 in Mineral County.
Sirk was also ordered to pay $34,773.68 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Maryland man sentenced for firearms offenseRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Alieu Crayton, of Silver Spring, Maryland, was sentenced today to 57 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Crayton, 22, pleaded guilty in September 2020 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearms.” Crayton, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, admitted to having two pistols in October 2019 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Wetzel County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Christian Iversen, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Iversen, 34, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Iversen admitted to having heroin in August 2019 in Marshall County.
Iversen 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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Jefferson County man admits to sex offender registry violationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Frederick M. Hilliard, of Charles Town, West Virginia, has admitted to a sex offender registry charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Hilliard, 66, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Failure to Register.” Hilliard admitted to not updating his sex offender registration from February to October 2019 in Jefferson County, as required by law, because of a rape conviction in Pennsylvania.
Hilliard 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 Kimberley D. Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Marshals Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Harrison County woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Nicole Elaine Cosner, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Cosner, 34, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Buprenorphine – Aiding and Abetting.” Cosner admitted to selling Buprenorphine in September 2019 in Grant County.
Cosner faces up to 10 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Grant County woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Carrie A. Aughtry, of Petersburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Aughtry, also known as “Corey Aughtry,”, 43, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Aughtry admitted to selling methamphetamine in July 2019 in Grant County.
Aughtry 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 Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio man admits to wire fraud chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kenneth Werkau, of Clarington, Ohio, has admitted to a wire fraud charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Werkau, 63, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Wire Fraud.” Werkau was employed as an associate at Walmart in Moundsville. Beginning in September 2019 and ending in January 2020, Werkau stole $123,775 in gift cards and activating them without paying for them.
Werkau 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 Dane DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Georgia man sentenced for his role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joel Jimenez, of Cartersville, Georgia, was sentenced today to 65 months of incarceration for his role in a drug distribution operation, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Jimenez, also known as “Carlos,” 41, pleaded guilty in November 2019 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances.” Jimenez admitted to working with others to distribute
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Three Rivers Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force; the West Virginia State Police; The Bartow County, Georgia, Sheriff’s Office; the FBI in Rome, Georgia; and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Related cases here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/georgia-man-found-guilty-drug-distribution-resulting-death-0
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/georgia-man-sentenced-four-life-sentences-plus-10-years-drug-distribution-resulting
Former correctional employee sentenced for sexual contact with inmateRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Heather D. Obrad, a former correctional employee at Federal Corrections Institution Hazelton, was sentenced today to three years of probation for having inappropriate contact with an inmate, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Obrad, of Granville, West Virginia, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Abusive Sexual Contact.” Obrad, 27, a secretary at FCI Hazelton, admitted to having sexual contact with an inmate at the facility from August to October 2020.
Obrad was also ordered to pay a fine of $5,500.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Office of Inspector General investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Hancock County man sentenced to 25 years for child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Gavin Collins, of Newell, West Virginia, was sentenced to 300 months of incarceration this week for a child pornography charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Collins, 30, pleaded guilty in May 2021 to one count of “Production of Child Pornography by Person Having Custody or Control.” Collins admitted to producing child pornography with a minor in his custody from September 2018 to July 2020 in Hancock.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Clarksburg woman admits to carjacking chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Courtney M. Oliverio, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a carjacking charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Oliverio, 39, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Carjacking.” On June 3, 2020, Oliverio assisted another in attempting to take a motorcycle from a property in Shinnston, West Virginia.
Oliverio faces up to 15 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.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/clarksburg-residents-indicted-carjacking-and-firearms-charges
Wheeling man sentenced to 10 years for drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Sylvester Eugene Walker, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months of incarceration for drug charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Walker, 28, pleaded guilty in May 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location” and one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Walker admitted to selling cocaine base near Wheeling Central Catholic High School on January16, 2020 and selling cocaine base on January 20, 2020 in Ohio County.
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 drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Lewis Smith, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 51 months of incarceration for selling cocaine near a local school, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Smith, also known as “Duck,” 51, pleaded guilty in April 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Smith admitted to selling cocaine base or “crack” near St. Michael Parish School in January 2018 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Wheeling man sentenced for role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Audie Fry, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years of probation for drug distribution in the Wheeling area, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Fry, also known as “Ott,” pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 feet of a Protected Location” in May 2020. Fry, age 64, admitted to selling methamphetamine near Luau Manor in Ohio County in April 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Find the related press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/13-indicted-drug-distribution-operation-ohio-county
Steubenville man sentenced for drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Rashaan Donell Mukes, of Steubenville, Ohio, was sentenced today to three years of probation for his role in a cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operation, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Mukes, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride, Cocaine Base, Heroin, and Fentanyl” in February 2020. Mukes admitted to working with others to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin and fentanyl in Hancock County and elsewhere from February 2018 to August 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Jefferson County, Ohio, Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force; the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office; the Brooke County Sheriff’s Office; the Weirton Police Department; and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Police investigated.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Find related press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/ohio-west-virginia-and-pennsylvania-residents-indicted-drug-conspiracy-ohio-valley
Detroit man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Patrick Collins, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Collins, 31, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances.” Collins admitted to working with others to distribute cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and heroin from the summer of 2020 to October 2020 in Monongalia County.
Collins 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Wheeling man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Randolph Michael Smith, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Smith, 42, pleaded guilty today 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.
Smith 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 Clayton J. Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Marshall County woman sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dannielle L. Young, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years of probation for a methamphetamine charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Young, 32, pleaded guilty in January 2021 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Young admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine from August 2019 to August 2020 in Marshall County and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Columbus man sentenced to more than 12 years for a drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Malcom X. Lewis, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced today to 151 months of incarceration for a methamphetamine charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Lewis, 28, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Lewis admitted to selling methamphetamine in January 2020 in Marshall County.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Columbus man sentenced to more than 11 years for his role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dominic McCall, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced today to 140 months of incarceration for his role in a drug distribution operation in the northern panhandle of West Virginia, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
McCall, age 30, pleaded guilty in May 2021 to three counts of “Use of Communication Facility to Facilitate a Drug Offense.” McCall admitted to using a phone to sell methamphetamine in Marshall County and elsewhere in November and December 2018 and February 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Columbus man sentenced for role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –Denico Anderson, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced today to 30 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting U.S. Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Anderson, also known as “Tone,” age 23, pleaded guilty in January 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Anderson admitted to selling methamphetamine in September 2019 in Ohio County.
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, 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.
Original case indictment here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/26-charged-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-crack-cocaine-and-meth-wheeling
Michigan man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Khorion Williams, of Highland Park, Michigan, was sentenced today to 46 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Williams, 22, pleaded guilty in April 2021 to one count of “Conspiracy to Violate Federal Firearms Laws.” Williams admitted to working with others to illegally purchase firearms in May 2018 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Harrison County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Taylor M. Washington, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Washington, 29, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Washington, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a .22LR caliber semi-automatic rifle in July 2020 in Harrison County.
Washington 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 Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives and the Bridgeport 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 – Doriawn Eduane-Draphel Rogers, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Rogers, 21, pleaded guilty today 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,. 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Maryland man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Antonio Cortez Darden, of Maugansville, Maryland, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Darden, 44, pleaded guilty this week to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Darden admitted to having cocaine hydrochloride in September 2019 in Berkeley County.
Darden 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 Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Harrison County woman sentenced for meth chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Amber Ramos, of Hepzibah, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Ramos, also known as “Amber Finch,” 33, pleaded guilty in April 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Ramos admitted to selling methamphetamine in July 2018 in Harrison County.
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.
Grant County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Bryan Edward Summerton, of Petersburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Summerton, 35, pleaded guilty today 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.
Summerton faces at least five years and up to life 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; 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. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Original case press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/grant-and-hardy-county-residents-indicted-fentanyl-and-firearms-charges
Georgia man admits to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – James Matthew Hembree, of Snellville, Georgia, has admitted to a methamphetamine charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Hembree, 40, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Hembree admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in September 2019 in Ohio County. During a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Hembree was a passenger, Wheeling Police officers found more than 371 grams of methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” a digital scale, and baggies typically used for resale.
Hembree 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 Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Randolph County man sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jesse David Tolson, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 150 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Tolson, 35, pled guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute More Than Fifty Grams of Methamphetamine.” Tolson admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in December 2019 in Randolph County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
U.S. Attorney’s Office plans Medicolegal Symposium to discuss the case against Reta Mays, convicted VA hospital murdererRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of West Virginia, is teaming up with Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, the FBI, and West Virginia University to hold a symposium discussing the cutting-edge methods used to convict a serial killer who preyed on veterans at the veteran’s hospital in Clarksburg.
In May 2021, Reta Mays, a former nursing assistant at the veteran’s hospital in Clarksburg, was sentenced to seven life terms in prison plus 20 years for murdering seven patients with insulin and attempting to murder an eighth veteran. The two-year investigation that preceded the July 2020 guilty pleas was highly complex.
The symposium consists of examining the clinical, forensic, psychiatry, and legal prosecution techniques used to ensure justice for Mays’ victims and their families. The prosecution team, investigators, and experts from around the globe will be presenting during this dynamic event. The symposium has been approved for CLE and CME credits. Credits for LE in-service are pending.
“The Medicolegal Symposium on the Serial Murder Case of Reta Mays” will be held at the WVU College of Law on Thursday, October 14 from 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The training will also be available virtually via the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of West Virginia’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/usaondwv. Medical professionals and medical students, attorneys and law students, criminal investigators and criminal justice students are welcome to attend.
Hancock County woman indicted on fraud chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jacque Phillips, of Weirton, West Virginia, appeared in federal court this week after being indicted on wire fraud, theft, and money laundering charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Phillips, also known as “Jacque Phillips-Brown,” 32, was indicted on three counts of “Wire Fraud,” one count of “Theft from a Health Care Benefit Program,” and three counts of “Money Laundering.” Phillips was employed as a billing manager at a medical billing company in Steubenville, Ohio. According to the indictment, 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 allegedly 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. It is alleged that 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 $250,000 for each count of wire fraud, faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,0000 for the theft charge, and faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $500,000 for each count of money laundering. 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
New York woman admits to role in drug trafficking ringRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Argelianka Garcia, of New York, New York, has admitted to her involvement in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Garcia, 44, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride and Cocaine Base.” Garcia admitted to working with others to distribute more than 98 grams of cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and more than 10 grams of cocaine hydrochloride from June to December 2019 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.
Garcia 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.
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. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Find the related press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/25-charged-six-state-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-cocaine
Delaware man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Durrion Joshua Morrison, of Wilmington, Delaware, has admitted to a cocaine charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Johnson, also known as “Nephew,” age 32, “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Johnson admitted to distributing and possessing more than 12 grams of cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in July 2016 in Berkeley County.
Johnson 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 Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County woman admits to drug chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Destiny Lee Dabbs, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to drug charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Dabbs, 29, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Heroin and Cocaine Base” and one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine Base, and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Dabbs admitted to working with others to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine hydrochloride from August 2020 to June 2021 in Berkeley County and elsewhere. The combined drug weight was between 40 and 60 kilograms.
Dabbs 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. 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.