Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Columbus man admits to his role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dominic McCall, of Columbus, Ohio, has admitted to his role in a drug distribution operation in the northern panhandle of West Virginia, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
McCall, age 29, pled guilty 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.
McCall faces up to four years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Philadelphia man admits to role in drug trafficking enterpriseRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tyrone Kareem Thomas, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has admitted to his role in a drug distribution enterprise, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Thomas, 40, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Participate in a Racketeering Enterprise (RICO Conspiracy).” Thomas admitted to working with others in a drug distribution operation spanning Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia and other locations. The criminal enterprise consisted of racketeering to hide thousands of dollars in proceeds from drug sales, acts of violence, and the distribution of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine hydrochloride. The crime occurred in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties and elsewhere from June 2019 to October 2020.Thomas 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 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. The Eastern District of Pennsylvania U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Kent County Sheriff’s Office assisted.
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. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/22-people-indicted-drug-trafficking-enterprise-spanned-several-states
Virginia man admits to sex offender chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Eddie Reese Cason, of Buckingham, Virginia, has admitted to a sex offender charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Cason, 37, pled guilty today to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration.” Cason, a person required to register as a sex offender, admitted to failing to update his sex offender registration from October 2020 to January 2021 in Randolph County after traveling from Virginia to West Virginia.
Cason is facing up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Marshal Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Martinsburg man sentenced for role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Pierre Christian, of Martinsburg West Virginia, was sentenced today to 71 months of incarceration for his role in a drug distribution operation, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Christian, 44, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute 28 Grams or More of Cocaine Base” in January 2021. Christian admitted to working with another to distribute cocaine base in 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
Harrison County man indicted on drug chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Austin Lodge, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, was indicted today on drug charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Lodge, 28, was indicted on one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Lodge is accused of having methamphetamine and heroin in December 2018 in Harrison County.
Lodges faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Clarksburg residents indicted on carjacking and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher M. Vickers and Courtney M. Oliverio, both of Clarksburg, West Virginia, are facing carjacking and firearms charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Vickers, 31, and Oliverio, 39, were each indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Carjacking,” one count of “Carjacking,” and one count of “Conspiracy to Use Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.” Vickers was also indicted on one count of “Use of Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.”
According to court documents, on June 3, 2020, Vickers and Oliverio drove to a residence in Shinnston, West Virginia to take a motorcycle. Vickers then allegedly grabbed a woman by her hair and held a gun to her head, demanding the location of the motorcycle. He also allegedly held a gun to the head of an 11-year-old child. According to the indictment, Vickers them rammed a vehicle into the garage of the residence to get the motorcycle. Vickers and Oliverio then allegedly attempted to take the motorcycle from the property.
Vickers, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior drug conviction, is accused of having a 5-shot revolver allegedly used during the crime.
Vickers and Oliverio each face up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the carjacking conspiracy charge, up to 15 years of incarceration and fine of up to $250,000 for the carjacking charge, and up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearm conspiracy charge. Vickers also no less than seven years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearm use 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 and Explosives and the Shinnston Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Maryland man sentenced for firearms offenseRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Lemonte Green, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced today to 60 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Green, 37, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime” in September 2020. Green admitted to having a 9mm pistol while trafficking drugs 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.
Illegal Alien admits to reentry chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jose Luis Roberto Osornio-Ortega, a citizen of Mexico, has admitted to an illegal reentry charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Osornio-Ortega, 27, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Reentry of Removed Aliens.” Osornio-Ortega admitted to being in the U.S. illegally after being removed once before in February 2012. Osornio-Ortega was in Hardy County in December 2018.
Osornio-Ortega faces up to two 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 cases on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security Immigration & Customs Enforcement investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Hampshire County man sentenced to more than 10 years for drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jamie Lee Sirbaugh, of Springfield, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 121 months of incarceration for a methamphetamine charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Sirbaugh, 42, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine” in January 2021. Sirbaugh admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” in February 2019 in Hampshire County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The task force includes the FBI, West Virginia State Police, Mineral County Sheriff’s Office, Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, Grant County Sheriff’s Office, and the Keyser Police Department.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County woman sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jacqueline L. Krsul, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months of incarceration for cocaine possession, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Krsul, 31, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base” in January 2021. Krsul admitted to having cocaine base or “crack” in April 2020 in Morgan County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Morgan County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Florida woman admits to bankruptcy fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Heather Lynn Pratt, of Fort Myers, Florida, has admitted to bankruptcy fraud, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Pratt, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of “Fraudulent Concealment of Bankruptcy Assets.” At the time of the offense, Pratt was employed by Emerald Grande, LLC and had access to the finances of the Florida-based company. Emerald Grande was operating two La Quinta Inn & Suites in West Virginia, one in Elkview and the other in Summersville, as well as a commercial property in Charleston known as the Kanawha Landing Property. Emerald Grande was a debtor in a bankruptcy case filed and pending in Clarksburg United States Bankruptcy Court.
Pratt admitted to concealing more than $145,000 she embezzled from the operating account of the LaQuinta Inn & Suites in Summersville from the bankruptcy trustee, when in fact, that money belonged to the debtor, Emerald Grande, LLC.
As a part of the plea agreement, Pratt will be required to pay restitution in the amount of $145,386.93 to the U.S. Bankruptcy Trustee.
Pratt is facing 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 Jarod J. Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Tucker County woman sentenced for her role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Donna Alyce Boyles, of Parsons, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years of probation for her role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Boyles, age 54, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises” in February 2019. She admitted to maintaining a residence located at 128 Main Street in Parsons, West Virginia, to manufacture, sell or use methamphetamine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower 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.
Randolph County woman sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Melissa Ann Slayton, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 100 months of incarceration for methamphetamine distribution, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Slayton, 36, pleaded guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute More Than Five Grams of Methamphetamine” in October 2020. She admitted to having more than five grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” and “ice,” in November 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.
Hardy County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Matthew Curtis Delawder, of Moorefield, West Virginia, has admitted to a methamphetamine charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Delawder, 37, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Delawder admitted to selling methamphetamine in Hardy County in October 2020.
As a part of the plea agreement, Delawder also agreed to forfeit three firearms, ammunition, and $4942 in cash believed to be proceeds from the crime.
Delawder is facing 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, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Grant County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Peter Sanford Layne, of Cabins, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Layne, 48, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Layne admitted to selling methamphetamine in January 2019 in Grant County.
Layne 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 & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The task force consists of the FBI, West Virginia State Police, Mineral County Sheriff’s Office, Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, Grant County Sheriff’s Office, and the Keyser Police Department.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Inmate admits to trying to obtain unemployment benefitsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Sedequa M. Graham, an inmate at Federal Corrections Institution Hazelton in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, was sentenced today to an additional six months of incarceration after admitting to attempting mail fraud, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Graham, 25, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Attempting Mail Fraud.” Graham is incarcerated at the Secure Female Facility Hazelton. She admitted to obtaining names, birth dates, and social security numbers of others without their knowledge. She then attempted to send that information via the postal service to obtain unemployment benefits. The crime occurred in August and September 2020 in Preston County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Prisons investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Grant County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Trampas Quint Wolford, of Cabins, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Wolford, 57, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Wolford admitted to selling methamphetamine in March 2019 in Grant County.
Wolford 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 & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The task force consists of the FBI, West Virginia State Police, Mineral County Sheriff’s Office, Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, Grant County Sheriff’s Office, and the Keyser Police Department.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Puerto Rico resident admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jean Carlos Rivera Aponte, of San Juan, Puerto Rico, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Aponte, 30, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Aponte admitted to having more than 61 grams of cocaine hydrochloride in March 2019 in Jefferson County.
Aponte 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 Ranson Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Monongalia County man admits to his role in a drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Andrew Benson, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Benson, 34, pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Cocaine Base.” Benson admitted to working with others to distribute the drugs from March 2018 to September 2020 in Monongalia County and elsewhere.
Benson 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 cases 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Related press release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/seventeen-people-charged-heroin-and-crack-cocaine-distribution-operation
Grant County woman admits to meth chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Betty Arlene Chapman, of Cabins, West Virginia has admitted to her role in a methamphetamine and fentanyl distribution operation, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Chapman, 42, pled guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute at Least Five Grams of Methamphetamine - Aiding and Abetting.” Chapman admitted to working with others to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine in January 2020 in Grant County.
Chapman is facing at least five and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The task force consists of the FBI, West Virginia State Police, Mineral County Sheriff’s Office, Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, Grant County Sheriff’s Office, and the Keyser Police Department.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Acting U.S. Attorney promotes 20th National Prescription Drug Take Back DayRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard is asking all residents in the Northern District of West Virginia to rid their homes of unwanted and used medications easily and safely.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is holding its 20th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 24 at locations across the country. The nationwide event aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.
“Too many times, prescription medications end up in the wrong hands. If you have unwanted and unused medications in your home, you could potentially be harming someone you care about,” said Bernard. “Drug Take Back Day is a safe and convenient way to ensure your loved ones and friends remain safe.”
Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.
Collection sites will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations in order to maintain the safety of all participants and local law enforcement.
DEA encourages the public to reach out to their local law enforcement to find out if they have any permanent drug disposal locations throughout their local community.
DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms. DEA will also accept vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from individual consumers, only after the batteries are removed from the devices. If the battery cannot be removed, individual consumers can check with large electronic chain stores who may accept the vape pen or e-cigarette devices for proper disposal. Liquids, including intravenous solutions, syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs cannot be dropped off. This service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
Wheeling man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Lewis Smith, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to selling cocaine near a local school, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Smith, also known as “Duck,” 50, pleaded guilty today 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.
Smith 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 Clayton J. Reid 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.
Monongalia County man sentenced for role in firearms conspiracyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dylan Conaway, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years of probation for his role in a firearms conspiracy, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Conaway, age 27, pled guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Conspiracy to Violate Federal Firearms Laws.” Conaway 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 sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Samuel Robert Loretta, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day of incarceration for a firearms charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Loretta, 54, pled guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Loretta, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of prior felony convictions, admitted to having .45 caliber revolver in March 2020 in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Clarksburg Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Barbour County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Theodore Edward Coontz, of Belington, West Virginia, has admitted to a methamphetamine charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Coontz, 47, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Coontz admitted to having methamphetamine in August 2020 in Barbour County.
The plea agreement also stipulates that Coontz will forfeit two pistols, a revolver, a shotgun, a rifle, ammunition, and $1,538 in cash found during a traffic stop and a subsequent search of his home.
Coontz 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 Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Pennsylvania man admits to his role in a drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Lance Smith, of Confluence, Pennsylvania, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Smith, 47, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Cocaine Base.” Smith admitted to working with others to distribute heroin and cocaine base, also known as “crack,” from March 2018 to September 2020 in Monongalia County and elsewhere.
Smith 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 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Related press release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/seventeen-people-charged-heroin-and-crack-cocaine-distribution-operation
Ohio man sentenced for selling cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Quaison Maurice Harris, of Willoughby Hills, Ohio, was sentenced today to 41 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Harris, also known as “Action,” age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 feet of a Protected Location” in November 2020. Harris admitted to selling cocaine near Belle Isle Playground on Wheeling Island in February 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.
See related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/26-charged-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-crack-cocaine-and-meth-wheeling
Monongalia County woman sentenced for her role in a drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Candice Marie Adams, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 15 months of incarceration for her role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Adams, 31, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility” in November 2020. Adams admitted to using a phone to distribute drugs 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
Lewis County man guilty of firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Samuel Lee Donaldson, Jr., of Weston, West Virginia, was found guilty today of a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
After a two-day trial, a jury found Donaldson, 37, guilty of one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Donaldson is a person prohibited from having a firearm because of prior convictions of domestic battery and third offense DUI. On October 5, 2019, a Lewis County Sheriff’s Deputy and a Weston Police Department K-9 unit responded to a 911 call about a felon with a firearm. When the officers made eye contact with Donaldson, he immediately fled on foot. Just before the officers apprehended him, Donaldson threw a 9mm semi-automatic firearm, which was quickly recovered.
Donaldson is facing up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher L. Bauer and Andrew R. Cogar are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Pocahontas County man admits to firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Julian N. Waddell, of Durbin, West Virginia, has admitted to firearms charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Waddell, 37, pleaded guilty today to two counts of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Waddell, a person who isn’t permitted to have a firearm because of a prior conviction, admitted to having three revolvers, a shotgun, and a semi-automatic rifle in April and July 2019 in Pocahontas County.
Waddell is facing up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the charges. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Mountain Region Drug Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony A. Shuster, Jr., of Caldwell, Ohio, was sentenced today to 70 months of incarceration for drug and firearms charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Anthony Shuster, also known as “Tiny,” 35, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of More than 50 Grams of Methamphetamine” in September 2020. Shuster admitted to selling more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” and “ice,” in January 2019 in Ritchie County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Monongalia County man admits to his role in a drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeremy Hamlin, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Hamlin, 41, pled guilty to one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises.” Hamlin admitted to using a place on Bradley Street in Morgantown for the purpose of distributing heroin and cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in March 2020 in Monongalia County.
Hamlin faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the cases 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Related press release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/seventeen-people-charged-heroin-and-crack-cocaine-distribution-operation
Berkeley and Jefferson County residents sentenced for drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Two Eastern Panhandle residents were sentenced today for their roles in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Braheem Jamal Gilbert, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months of incarceration. Gilbert, also known as “Slick,” 31, pled guilty in November 2020 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, and Cocaine Base.” Gilbert admitted to working with others to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine base from January 2019 to September 2019 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties and elsewhere.
Duane Curtis Jackson, of Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 40 months of incarceration. Jackson, also known as “Duke,” 28, pled guilty in November 2020 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl.” Jackson admitted to having heroin and fentanyl in March 2019 in Jefferson County.
This case is the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally. 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. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Original press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/25-charged-six-state-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-cocaine
Preston County woman admits to role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tiffany Groves, of Kingwood, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Groves, age 43, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Groves admitted to distributing methamphetamine in April 2020 in Monongalia County.
Groves faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI's Northern West Virginia Drug Task Force in partnership with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The Task Forces have members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Monongalia County Sheriff's Office; and, the Morgantown, WVU, Granville and Star City Police Departments. The investigation was also assisted by the following law enforcement partners: the Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI in Houston, Texas; the Houston Police Department's Multi Agency Gang Initiative; the United States Postal Inspection Service in Houston; and, the FBI and DEA in Los Angeles, California.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio man sentenced for selling cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Shuntaze Harvey, of Garfield Heights, Ohio, was sentenced yesterday to 12 months and 1 day of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Harvey, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 feet of a Protected Location” in October 2020. Harvey admitted to selling cocaine near Wheeling Center Catholic High School in Wheeling in February 2020.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, which includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department, investigated. The U.S. Marshal Service, Columbus Police Department Gang Crimes Unit, the Martins Ferry Police Department, and the Bellaire Police Department also assisted.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Ohio man sentenced for role in drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dominique Revell Dungey, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, was sentenced yesterday to 10 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Dungey, also known as “Murda,” age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base” in January 2021. Dungey admitted to selling cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in May 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 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
Monongalia County man sentenced for his role in a drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Larry Bruce Heaster, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced to one year of probation for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Heaster, 55, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Cocaine Base” in November 2020. Heaster admitted to working with others to distribute the drugs from March 2018 to September 2020 in Monongalia County and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the cases 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Related press release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/seventeen-people-charged-heroin-and-crack-cocaine-distribution-operation
Mineral County attorney admits to fraud chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Mark Sirk, an attorney who lives in Keyser, West Virginia, has admitted a fraud charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Sirk, 62, pleaded guilty today 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. Sirk obtained at least $26,152.68 fraudulently. The crime occurred from December 2016 to June 2018 in Mineral County.
Sirk 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Harrison County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Dustin Cain Anderson, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Anderson, 27, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Anderson, a person prohibited from having firearms, admitted to having a .22 caliber revolver in November 2020 in Upshur County.
Anderson is facing up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Wheeling man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Mark L. Flint, II, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 51 months of incarceration a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Flint, age 35, of Wheeling, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in January 2021. Flint, who is prohibited from having a firearm, admitted to having a .40 semi-automatic pistol in May 2020 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
U.S. Attorney’s Office teams up with law enforcement and other community partners to recognize overdose victimsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with law enforcement and others in the community in the Northern District of West Virginia to recognize overdose victims as a part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
West Virginia remains #1 in overdose deaths per capita in the United States, according to data collected from the Centers of Disease Control. In the 32 counties in the Northern District of West Virginia, an average of 300 people die each year of drug overdoses.
“Substance abuse disorder is rampant in our district and across the state, and in the past year, has been compounded by the pandemic and the isolation, job loss, and uncertainty that came with it. The victims of drug overdoses are someone’s loved ones. We want to recognize these tremendous losses as we continue to work to get these illegal substances off the streets,” said Randolph J. Bernard, Acting U.S. Attorney, Northern District of West Virginia.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office will be placing purple flags, one for each death in the NDWV, in several locations across the District to recognize the hundreds of sons, daughters, parents, grandchildren, and friends who lost their lives last year because of illegal drug sales.
Flags will be placed with our partners in:
• Wheeling –at Wheeling’s Heritage Port, in partnership with the City of Wheeling
• Martinsburg –at the Martinsburg Police Department in partnership with Martinsburg Police
• Bridgeport – at the Bridgeport Police Department in partnership with the Bridgeport Police
• Elkins –at the Elkins City Building in partnership with the City of Elkins
• Morgantown –at the Monongalia County Health Department in partnership with the Monongalia County Quick Response Team
The week, which is celebrating its 40th year this year, begins April 18 and runs through April 24, 2021. The theme is “Support Victims. Build Trust. Engage Communities.” For more information on the week, go to https://ovc.ojp.gov/program/national-crime-victims-rights-week/overview.
Tucker County man sentenced for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – John Luther Boyles, of Parsons, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 78 months of incarceration for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
John Luther Boyles, age 64, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” in February 2019. Boyles admitted to conspiring with others to distribute more than five grams of methamphetamine from December 2017 to March 2018 in Tucker and Randolph Counties and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower 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.
Monongalia County woman admits to role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ashley Johnson, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Johnson, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” Johnson admitted to using ap hone to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine base, also known as “crack,” cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” fentanyl, and heroin in April 2020 in Monongalia County.
Johnson faces up to four years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI's Northern West Virginia Drug Task Force in partnership with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The Task Forces have members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Monongalia County Sheriff's Office; and, the Morgantown, WVU, Granville and Star City Police Departments. The investigation was also assisted by the following law enforcement partners: the Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI in Houston, Texas; the Houston Police Department's Multi Agency Gang Initiative; the United States Postal Inspection Service in Houston; and, the FBI and DEA in Los Angeles, California.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County man admits to his role in a drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel McClung, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
McClung, 40, pled guilty to one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises.” McClung admitted to keeping an apartment in Morgantown for the purpose of distributing heroin and cocaine base, also known as “crack.” In March 2020 in Monongalia County.
McClung faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Related press release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/seventeen-people-charged-heroin-and-crack-cocaine-distribution-operation
Marion County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brian K. Griffey, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 180 months incarceration for a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Griffey, age 51, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition” in March 2019. Griffey, having been previously convicted of multiple felonies, admitted to having a 12-gauge shotgun and shotgun shells in Harrison County in June 2018.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Nutter Fort Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Detroit man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Mario Rayshawn White, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
White, also known as “MT,” 30, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone.” White admitted to selling Oxycodone in April 2019 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting 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 sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason Timothy Henry, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Henry, age 45, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in October 2020. Henry admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in November 2019 in Ohio County.
The judge also ordered the forfeiture of the following:
• Taurus, .357 magnum revolver;
• Six rounds of .357 ammunition;
• One box of .357 ammunition;
• One box of 9mm ammunition;
• Three rounds of 7.62 x 39 caliber ammunition;
• One cylinder for revolver; and
• Mossberg, 12-gauge shotgun.Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Wheeling Police Department and the Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
South Carolina man sentenced to 10 years for “crystal” meth and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Todd Michael Hensley, of Anderson, South Carolina, was sentenced today to 120 months of incarceration for drug and firearms charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Hensley, age 48, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.”
On January 23, 2020, officers conducted a traffic stop of Hensley’s vehicle in Marshall County and found him to be in possession of approximately 2.73 pounds of “crystal” methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” a loaded 9mm Glock pistol, four loaded 10-round Glock firearm magazines, a loaded 15-round Glock firearm magazine, and three loaded 31-round Glock firearm magazines. Following the traffic stop, a search warrant was executed at Hensley’s home in Anderson, South Carolina, where officers seized an additional 14 firearms, including three AK47s, approximately 300 rounds of ammunition, 50 grams of “ice,” and $9,000 in cash.
The judge also ordered the forfeiture of the firearms, ammunition, and cash.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The Anderson County, South Carolina Sheriff’s Department assisted.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Grant County woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Melissa Dawn Bailey, of Cabins, West Virginia, has admitted today to a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Bailey, 41, pleaded guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Bailey admitted to selling methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth,” in June 2020 in Grant County.
Bailey 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, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Moorefield Police Department investigated. The task force consists of the FBI, the West Virginia State Police, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office, the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, and the Keyser Police Department.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Columbus men sentenced to more than 100 years for their roles in a drug distribution operation that spanned three statesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –Rodriquies M. Evans and Cedric L. Douglas, both of Columbus, Ohio, were sentenced to a combined 104 years in prison today for their roles in a methamphetamine distribution operation that spanned multiple states, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Evans, also known as “Dree”, age 30, was sentenced today to 960 months of incarceration. Douglas, age 32, was sentenced today to 296 months of incarceration. In October 2020, a jury found Evans and Douglas each guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances,” two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” The crimes took place in Wetzel County and elsewhere, including the Southern District of West Virginia, Ohio, and Georgia from July 2015 to April 2018.
“Methamphetamine, particularly crystal methamphetamine, has become a tremendous challenge for the Northern District of West Virginia and the entire Nation. It destroys lives and communities. The sentences handed down today should send a clear message to those who want to sell drugs in the Mountain State. If you bring illegal substances to West Virginia and prey on our neighbors, you will face substantial federal time,” said Bernard.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol; Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office; the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office; the Sistersville Police Department; the Paden City Police Department; and the New Martinsville Police Department investigated. The Columbus, Ohio Police Department Gang Crimes Unit assisted in the case.
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.