Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Wheeling woman admits to role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kristen Hoffler, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Hoffler, age 25, pleaded guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base, Methamphetamine, Heroin, and Fentanyl,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin within 1000 feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base within 1000 feet of a Protected Location,” and one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Hoffler admitted to working with other individuals to distribute heroin and cocaine base, also known as crack, near Luau Manor, a housing facility owned by a public housing authority, in April 2020.
Hoffler faces at up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 on the conspiracy charge and she faces up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for each additional 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 Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes 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. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Original case indictment here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/26-charged-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-crack-cocaine-and-meth-wheeling
Martinsburg man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marquis Hicks, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a conspiracy involving the illegal purchase and transportation of firearms, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Hicks, age 30, pleaded guilty to one count of “Conspiracy.” Hicks admitted to working with another individual to purchase, possess, and transfer firearms to an out of state resident, in March 2020.
Hicks faces up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Martinsburg man admits drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph George Ray, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Ray, 56, also known as “YB,” pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute a Heroin and Fentanyl Mixture.” Ray admitted to distributing heroin and fentanyl in August 2020 in Berkeley County.
Ray 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.
These charges are 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 is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Martinsburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Georgia man found guilty of drug distribution resulting in deathRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – After a 7-day trial, a federal jury found Seddrick Banks, of Cartersville, Georgia, guilty of drug distribution resulting in death and a myriad of other charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
After two hours of deliberation, the jury found Banks, age 28, guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances,” one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – Aiding and Abetting,” one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride – Aiding and Abetting,” one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl – Aiding and Abetting,” one count of “Use and Carry a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime,” and one count of “Accessory After the Fact to Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury or Death.”
During the trial, the jury heard testimony that Banks trafficked and distributed more than 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, as well as cocaine hydrochloride and fentanyl, in Marion County and elsewhere from May 2018 to September 2018. He would travel from Georgia to West Virginia, trafficking the drugs from different motel and hotel rooms and other locations. Banks and his conspirators carried at least three firearms during the drug trafficking crimes.
At one of the motels in Lewis County on August 9, 2018, Terrick Robinson, a co-conspirator, distributed fentanyl to Courtney Dubois of Fairmont, West Virginia. That drug, according to her autopsy, was an independent sufficient cause of Courtney Dubois’ death. The jury heard testimony and saw evidence that Banks assisted Robinson in taking the body of the victim to Georgia, where they dismembered the body and disposed of it at the Bartow County Landfill.
“This horrific and heinous crime is more than just a drug trafficking case. Banks and his co-conspirators not only preyed on our neighbors with the drugs they were selling, they allowed a young woman to die and disposed of her without any regard or respect for her life. While this outcome won’t bring Courtney back, we hope it will give her family some peace as justice has prevailed,” said Bernard.
Banks faces the following:
- Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances – at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000
- Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – Aiding and Abetting - at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000
- Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride – Aiding and Abetting – up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000
- Possession with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl – Aiding and Abetting – at least five years and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000
- Use and Carry a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime – at least five years and up to life incarceration and up to a $250,000 fine
- Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury or Death –up to 15 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.
Two of the co-conspirators in this case have pled guilty. William Gregory Chappell, age 34, of Cartersville, Georgia, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances” and one count of “Use and Carry a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime” in February 2019. Joel Jimenez, age 39, also of Cartersville, Georgia, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances” in October 2019. Both men were a part of the drug distribution operation from Georgia to West Virginia.
Another defendant in this case, Terrick Robinson, age 36, of Cartersville, Georgia, was sentenced to life in prison plus 10 years after being found guilty after a nine-day trial of a multiple charges related this case. Read more here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/georgia-man-sentenced-four-life-sentences-plus-10-years-drug-distribution-resulting
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon S. Flower and Andrew M. Cogar 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.
Cleveland man admits to role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Willie Johnson, of Cleveland, Ohio, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Johnson, age 37, pleaded guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Johnson admitted to working with someone to distribute heroin near Luau Manor, a housing facility owned by a public housing authority, in April 2020.
Johnson faces at least one and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes 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. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Original case indictment here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/26-charged-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-crack-cocaine-and-meth-wheeling
Cleveland man admits to role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Eiandreus Kirkland Rebraun Pique, of Cleveland, Ohio, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Pique, also known as “Duke,” age 25, pleaded guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Pique admitted to working with someone to distribute cocaine base, also known as “crack,” near Wheeling University in February 2020.
Pique faces at least one and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes 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. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Original case indictment here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/26-charged-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-crack-cocaine-and-meth-wheeling
Berkeley County man arraigned on firearms chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Detrick Lee Foston, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was arrested today after being indicted by a federal grand jury on firearms charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Foston, 24, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy,” two counts of “False Statement During Purchase of Firearms,” one count of “Transfer of Firearm to Out-of-State Resident,” one count of and one count of “False Statement During Purchase of Firearm.”
Foston is accused of working with another defendant charged in the indictment, Marquise Hicks, to illegally purchase and transfer firearms from March 2020 to June 2020 in Berkeley County and elsewhere.
Hicks, age 26, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy” and one count of “Illegal Transportation or Receipt in State of Residency of Firearm Purchased or Acquired Outside of State of Residency.”
Fotson and Hicks each face up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the conspiracy charge. Fotson faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the false statement charges and faces up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the transfer charge. Hicks faces up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the illegal transportation charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Florida man admits to fraud charge involving nearly $5 millionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Phillip W. Conley, of Jacksonville, Florida, has admitted to a fraud charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Conley, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of “Securities Fraud.” Conley admitted to scheming approximately 18 individuals in excess of $5 million from 2014 to 2019. The victims were from all over the United States, including West Virginia and Maryland.
Conley operated a company by the name of Alpax, LLC, portraying himself as an investment advisor living and working out of Morgantown and Kingwood, West Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Virginia. He developed a scheme to defraud investors by convincing the victims to give him and his companies money for him to invest for returns for the victims. He gave the victims a false sense of security by mailing them false dividend statements, claiming a positive rate of return for their investments. Conley fraudulently obtained approximately $5.2 million dollars from 18 victims, but invested little or none of that money and spent much of it on private jet flights, expensive meals, clothes, jewelry, housing and living expenses for himself, returning only about $210,000 to the victims.
Conley faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5 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.
As a part of the plea agreement, Conley agreed to the forfeiture of any property purchased from the proceeds of the crimes, including a money judgment of $4,868,744.60.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Preston County man admits to drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Ray Deberry, of Terra Alta, West Virginia, has admitted to drug and firearms charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Deberry, 34, of Terra Alta, West Virginia, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More Than Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm as Felon.” Deberry admitted to working with others to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine from February 2017 to June 2018 in Harrison County and elsewhere. Deberry, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a .45 caliber pistol in January 2018 in Marion County.
Deberry faces at least five years and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the conspiracy 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 Andrew R. Cogar 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 & Explosives investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Pittsburgh man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Raimonte Gordon Gaston, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Gaston, also known as “Boog,” “Barkley Boo,” “Barkley,” and “Ray,” 28, pleaded guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl.” Gaston admitted to working with another to distribute heroin and fentanyl from September 2018 to January 2019 in Harrison County and elsewhere.
Gaston 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 Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bridgeport Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Jefferson County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Warren Long, of Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Long, 33, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Long, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a .410 gauge shotgun in May 2020 in Jefferson County.
Long faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Detroit man admits to his role in a drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William D. Charleston, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Charleston, also known as “Jay,” 41, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Charleston admitted to distributing heroin and fentanyl near Fairmont Senior High School and Fairmont State University in August 2020.
Charleston faces at least one and up 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for each 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 Three Rivers Drug Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Columbus man admits to role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Sihrahn Major, II, of Columbus, Ohio, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Major, also known as “Black,” age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of 5 Grams or More of Methamphetamine within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Major admitted to selling five grams or more of methamphetamine near Riverview Towers on in Wheeling in January 2020.
Major faces at least five and up to 80 years of 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. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes 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. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Original case indictment here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/26-charged-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-crack-cocaine-and-meth-wheeling
Acting U.S. Attorney named West Virginia Bar FellowRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard will be honored today as a 2021 Fellow at the West Virginia Bar Foundation Fellows Dinner in Charleston.
The event will honor the judges and lawyers selected for both the 2020 Fellows class and the 2021 Fellows class. The criteria for Bar Foundation Fellows are those judges and lawyers whose professional, public and private careers have demonstrated outstanding dedication to the welfare of their communities and honorable service to the legal profession with the individuals selected reflecting the diverse nature of the legal profession in West Virginia.
“It is an honor and a privilege to be recognized by the West Virginia Bar and my colleagues. All of us work tirelessly every day to find justice for clients in a variety of arenas. I’m proud to be a part of such an esteemed group of legal professionals,” said Bernard.
Bernard was nominated by former U.S. Attorney Bill Powell, Northern District of West Virginia.There have been approximately 400 lawyers and judges selected as Fellows over the years from the 6,000 judges and lawyers across the state.
Physician admits to assault chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dr. Kenneth C. Ramdat, a physician formerly employed at the Louis A. Johnson VA Hospital in Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to assaulting two hospital employees, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Ramdat, 66, of Silver Springs, Maryland, pleaded guilty to two counts of “Simple Assault.” As a part of his plea agreement, Ramdat admitted to touching two staff women’s breasts without permission while in isolated rooms of incapacitated patients in two separate incidents in August 2019 and October 2019 at the hospital in Harrison County.
Ramdat was sentenced to one year of probation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, the FBI, the Veterans Affairs Police, and the Clarksburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio County man sentenced for child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ryan Nicholas Wolf, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months of incarceration for child pornography possession, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Wolf, 35, pled guilty in February 2021 to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Wolf admitted to having devices containing images and videos of child pornography in January 2021 in Ohio County.
Wolf’s Wheeling Island home was searched in January 2021. The search found a thumb drive containing over a thousand images of what appeared to be juveniles. It does not appear as though any of the child pornographic material found in Wolf’s possession was locally produced and/or depicted children that he personally knew.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security and Wheeling Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Harrison County man guilty of child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Terrell Anderson, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, was found guilty today of a child pornography charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
After a two-day trial, the federal jury found Anderson, 25, guilty of one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Anderson had child pornography on his phone in January 2020 in Harrison County.
Anderson 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. Attorneys David J. Perri and Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bridgeport Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Harrison County man admits to firearms chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Carl David Davis, of Hepzibah, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Davis, 32, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession of an Explosive by a Prohibited Person” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Davis, who is prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, is accused of having two electric explosive detonators (blasting caps) in November 2018 and a .22 caliber rifle in October 2020 in Harrison County.
Davis faces up 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each 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.
Davis also agreed to the forfeiture of a 9mm pistol, 11 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a .22 caliber rifle, seven rounds of .22 caliber ammunition, one 12-gauge shotgun shell, and four rounds of .32 caliber ammunition.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Grant County woman admits to child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Christine Shook, of Petersburg, West Virginia, has admitted to child pornography charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Shook, age 32, pleaded guilty on Monday to one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Production Child Pornography,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession of Child Pornography (Depicting a child under the age of 12),” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Production of Child Pornography.” Shook admitted to working with Jasper E. Shook to possess and produce images of child pornography that included images of a female under the age of 12 from 2015 to May 2019 in the Northern District of West Virginia and elsewhere. Jasper pleaded guilty in February 2020.
Shook faces up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the conspiracy count and faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the possession count. She also faces not less than 15 years and up to 30 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the production 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.
This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://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. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Columbus man sentenced for role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Milik I. Stanley, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced today to 87 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Stanley, also known as “Taco,” age 24, pled guilty in February 2021 to one count of “Distribution Methamphetamine within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Stanley admitted to selling methamphetamine near Madison Elementary School on Wheeling Island 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 and Violent Crimes 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
Parkersburg man sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher S. McCallister of Parkersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years of probation for a drug distribution charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
McCallister, age 29, pled guilty in June 2020 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances” in February 2019. McCallister admitted to distributing methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base in Wetzel County, as well as the Southern District of West Virginia, Ohio, and Georgia from 2016 to April 2018.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. A
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Ohio man sentenced for selling cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony L. Turner, of Toledo, Ohio, was sentenced today to 51 months of incarceration for drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Turner, 44, pled guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Turner admitted to selling cocaine base, also known as “crack cocaine,” in September 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.
Georgia man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Kaleb Joseph Beals, of Silver Creek, Georgia, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting United States Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Beals 32, pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Beals admitted to working with others to sell methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” or “ice,” from August 2018 to April 2019 in Hardy County.
Beals faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, 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.
Pendleton County mail carrier sentenced for attempted election fraudRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas Cooper, a mail carrier in Pendleton County, was sentenced today to five years of probation, with the first six months home confinement, for attempted election fraud, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Cooper, age 48, of Dry Fork, West Virginia, pled guilty in July 2020 to one count of “Attempt to Defraud the Residents of West Virginia of a Fair Election” and one count of “Injury to the Mail.” Cooper held a U.S. Postal Service contract to deliver mail in Pendleton County. In April 2020, the Clerk of Pendleton County received “2020 Primary Election COVID-19 Mail-In Absentee Request" forms from eight voters on which the voter's party-ballot request appeared to have been altered.
The clerk reported the finding to the West Virginia Secretary of State’s office, which began an investigation. The investigation found five ballot requests that had been altered from “Democrat” to “Republican.” On three other requests, the party wasn’t changed, but the request had been altered.
Cooper was responsible for the mail delivery of the three towns from which the tampered requests were mailed: Onego, Riverton, and Franklin, West Virginia. Cooper admitted today to altering some of the requests.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office, the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, and the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Lee Grapes, of Pursglove, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 25 months of incarceration for firearms charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Grapes, 40, plead guilty in February 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Grapes, who is prohibited from having a firearm because of prior convictions, admitted to having a .45 caliber pistol in July 2020 in Grant County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Ohio man sentenced for soliciting minor for child pornographyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Dorst, of Shade, Ohio, was sentenced today to 60 months of incarceration for a child pornography charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Dorst, age 59, pled guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Solicitation of Child Pornography.” Dorst admitted to asking a minor in Harrison County to send material of the minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The crime occurred in February 2020.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bridgeport Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Cincinnati man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – David Elroy Bradshaw, of Cincinnati, Ohio, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Bradshaw, 37, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Bradshaw admitted to selling methamphetamine near Wheeling Central Catholic High School in October 2020 in Ohio County.
Bradshaw faces at least one and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, assisted.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Pennsylvania man sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Darren L. Fryson, of Verona, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to three years of probation for distributing methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Fryson, age 50, pled guilty in June 2019 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in June 2019. Fryson admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Ohio County and elsewhere from March 2018 to April 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Ohio woman sentenced for role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Marisa Page, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced to three years of probation for her role in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Page, 29, pled guilty in October 2020 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.” Page admitted to working with others to traffic methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin in Wetzel County, Ohio, Georgia, as well as into the southern district of West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office, the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, and the New Martinsville Police Department 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.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Related press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/31-ohio-and-west-virginia-residents-are-indicted-connection-drug-distribution-operation
Ohio man admits to methamphetamine and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Palmer, of Lore City, Ohio, has admitted to drug and firearms charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Palmer, 57, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm as a Felon.” Palmer, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, admitted to having methamphetamine and two pistols in February 2018 in Harrison County.
Palmer faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 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 Andrew R. Cogar 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 & Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/ohio-and-west-virginia-residents-indicted-drug-and-firearms-charges
Monongalia County man sentenced for fentanyl distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles Clint Gaines, Jr., of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 96 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Gaines, 33, pled guilty in January 2021 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Gaines admitted to having fentanyl in February 2020 in Monongalia County.
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, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Michigan man admits to methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Tyreese Marsh, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to this role in a methamphetamine distribution operation in Marion County, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Marsh, 29, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Marsh admitted to working with others to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in October 2019 in Marion County.
Marsh 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 Drug Enforcement Administration and the White Hall Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Marshall County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason Alexander Ruskin, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Ruskin, 28, pled guilty in January 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Ruskin, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a 9mm semi-automatic pistol in August 2020 in Marshall County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Jefferson County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rashad Khalill Faunteroy, of Charles Town, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Faunteroy, 21, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Faunteroy, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a domestic violence conviction, admitted to having a 9mm handgun in July 2020 in Jefferson County.
Faunteroy faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Charles Town Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Robert W. Trumble presided.
Columbus man sentenced for selling cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Deontre Christian Johnson, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced today to 57 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Johnson, also known as “Day Day,” age 21, pled guilty in October 2020 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Johnson admitted to selling cocaine near Jensen Playground on Wheeling Island in December 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes 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.
Berkeley County woman admits to role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jaime Renee Coddington, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in a drug distribution operation, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Coddington, 34, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Eutylone and Cocaine Base.” Coddington admitted to working with others to distribute Eutylone and Cocaine Base from October 2019 to April 2020 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.Coddington faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; the Department of Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Marshals Service; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the West Virginia Air National Guard investigated.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/west-virginia-and-virginia-residents-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation-berkeley-and
Upshur County man charged with carjacking and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Chad C. Newcome, of Rock Cave, West Virginia, was indicted today on carjacking and firearms charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Newcome, 40, was indicted on one count of “Carjacking,” one count of “Use of Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Newcome is accused of attempting to steal a 2018 Dodge Ram Truck on March 10, 2021 in Upshur County. Newcome, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, is accused of using a 12-gauge shotgun during the alleged carjacking.
Newcome faces up to 15 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the carjacking charge, at least seven years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the use of a firearm charge, and up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the unlawful possession charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pennsylvania man sentenced for role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Zjaondezel Solomyn Douglas, of Zelionople, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 33 months of incarceration for his role in a cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operation, Acting U.S Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Douglas, 37, pleaded guilty in January 2021 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Douglas admitted to working with another to distribute cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in August 2018 in Hancock County.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys 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 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 John Preston Bailey presided.
Related case press release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/ohio-west-virginia-and-pennsylvania-residents-indicted-drug-conspiracy-ohio-valley
Grant County man faces firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeffery Allen McCurdy, of Cabins, West Virginia, was indicted today on a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
McCurdy, 33, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” McCurdy, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, is accused of having two 12-gauge shotguns and a .22 caliber long rifle in January 2021 in Grant County.
McCurdy 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Cleveland man sentenced for selling heroin and fentanylRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Andre Cornell Diggs, of Cleveland Heights, Ohio, was sentenced today to 41 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Diggs, also known as “Dre” and “Big Homie,” age 39, pled guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin and Fentanyl within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Diggs admitted to selling a heroin and fentanyl mixture near Riverview Towers in Wheeling in December 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes 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.
Related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/26-charged-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-crack-cocaine-and-meth-wheeling
Cleveland man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Sylvester Deangelo Walker, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 100 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Walker, also known as “DBOS,” 25, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Walker admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 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.
Cleveland man sentenced for cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Anthony Toler, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 46 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Toler, age 35, pled guilty in January 2021 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Toler admitted to having cocaine case, also known as “crack,” in Ohio County in February 2020.
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, and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Belmont County woman sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Sheri K. Green, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day of incarceration for a methamphetamine charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Green, 56, pled guilty in February 2021 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Green admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine from August 2019 to August 2020 in Marshall County and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced to more than 12 years for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Clay Westbrook, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 151 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Westbrook, age 39, pled guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Westbrook admitted to having methamphetamine in December 2019 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Harrison County woman sentenced for methamphetamine and heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Stephanie Cottrill, of Shinnston, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 77 months of incarceration for methamphetamine and heroin distribution, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Cottrill, age 38, pleaded guilty in September 2020 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Methamphetamine and Heroin.” Cottrill admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine and heroin from November 2019 to January 2020 in Ritchie County.Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ritchie County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Virginia man sentenced for role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles Jackson, of Winchester, Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months of incarceration for his role in a drug distribution operation, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Jackson, 53, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Eutylone and Cocaine Base.” Jackson admitted to working with others to distribute eutylone and cocaine base from October 2019 to April 2020 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; the Department of Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Marshals Service; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the West Virginia Air National Guard investigated.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/west-virginia-and-virginia-residents-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation-berkeley-and
Maryland man sentenced for fentanyl distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Lamont Brinkley, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced to 58 months of incarceration for distributing fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Brinkley, age 34, pleaded guilty in October 2019 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Brinkley was found in a motel in Spring Mills, West Virginia, in November 2018 with 30 grams of fentanyl, 39 grams of a synthetic opiate known as U47700, and a cutting agent, as well as digital scales and plastic baggies. The amount of fentanyl seized was enough to kill more than 10,000 people. Other drugs were also found in the room, along with $9,600 in cash.
These charges are 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy D. Helman and Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; the Martinsburg Police Department; the Charles Town Police Department; and the Ranson Police Department investigated. The United States Marshals assisted.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Find the original case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/33-indicted-heroin-cocaine-and-fentanyl-distribution-operation-berkeley-and-jefferson
Martinsburg woman sentenced for role in drug trafficking enterpriseRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Barbara Jean Feltner, of Martinsburg West Virginia, was sentenced today to 10 months of incarceration for her role in a drug distribution enterprise, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Feltner, 32, pleaded guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin and Fentanyl.” Feltner admitted to working with others to sell heroin and fentanyl in February 2020 in Berkeley County.Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; the Department of Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Marshals Service; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the West Virginia Air National Guard investigated. The Eastern District of Pennsylvania U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Kent County Sheriff’s Office assisted.
These charges are 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.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/22-people-indicted-drug-trafficking-enterprise-spanned-several-states
Martinsburg man facing child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brandon Cody Sabol, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal Grand Jury in May 2021 on child pornography charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Sabol, 32, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Child Pornography” and one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Sabol is accused of distributing child pornography in May 2020 in Berkeley County. He is also accused of having an image of child pornography containing a child under the age of 12 in October 2020 in Berkeley County.
Sabol faces at least five years and up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the distribution charge. He faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the possession 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 Kimberley L. Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Buckhannon man admits to drug and counterfeit chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Garry William Moran, II, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, has admitted to drug and counterfeit charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Moran, 41, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possession of Counterfeit Obligations.” Moran admitted to having methamphetamine to sell from January to May 2019 in Upshur County and elsewhere. Moran also admitted to having $1,100 in counterfeit bills in May 2019 in Upshur County.
Moran faces up to 20 years of incarceration and fine of up to $1,000,000 for the drug charge and faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the counterfeit 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 Mountain Lakes Drug Task Force and the U.S. Secret Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.