Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Ohio County man indicted on drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Mark Joseph Dobrzynski, of Valley Grove, West Virginia, is facing drug trafficking charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Dobrzynski, 58, was indicted on three counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Dobrzynski is accused of selling methamphetamine in December 2019 and October 2020 in Ohio County. He is also accused of having methamphetamine in November 2020 in Ohio County.
Dobrzynski faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Monongalia County man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Aaric Murray, of Morgantown, West Virginia, is facing a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Murray, 31, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Murray, a person prohibited from having a firearm, is accused of having a .380 caliber pistol and a .357 magnum caliber revolver in April 2020 in Monongalia County.
Murray 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Marshall County man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – James Gray, of Moundsville, West Virginia, is facing a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Gray, 43, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Gray, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of prior felony convictions, is accused of having a .380 caliber pistol in October 2020 in Marshall County.
Gray faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250 ,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Illegal Alien indicted for fourth reentryRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Mario Casiero-Antonio, a citizen of Mexico, is facing an illegal reentry charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Casiero-Antonio, also known as “Mario Antonio Cajero,” 33, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Aliens.” Casiero-Antonio, having been removed three times from illegal entry to the United States in October and December 2008, is accused of being in Berkeley County in September 2020 without approved admission to the U.S.
Casiero-Antonio 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 Eleanor F. Hurney is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Cincinnati man indicted on drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – David Elroy Bradshaw, of Cincinnati, Ohio, is facing drug charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Bradshaw, 36, was indicted on two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Bradshaw is accused of 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 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. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, assisted.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Florida man sentenced to more than 7 years for role in methamphetamine distribution operations in Harrison, Marion, and Monongalia CountiesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Juwan Floyd, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced today to 87 months of incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Floyd, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in June 2019. Floyd admitted to working with another to distribute methamphetamine in November 2017 in Harrison 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 Greater Harrison 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.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Belmont County man admits to firearms violationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ricky Runner, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, has admitted to a firearms violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Runner, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Runner, a person prohibited from having firearms, admitted to possessing a .40 caliber pistol in Marshall County in October 2018.
Runner faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate James P. Mazzone presided.
Wheeling man admits to selling cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Lorenzo Clark, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Clark, also known as “Renny,” age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Clark admitted to selling cocaine near the Hil-Dar housing complex in Ohio County in May 2020.
Clark 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 is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, which includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Wetzel County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Derrick Adams, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, has admitted to a heroin charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Adams, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin.” Adams admitted to selling heroin in June 2019 in Wetzel County.
Adams 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 West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Martinsburg residents indicted on heroin and fentanyl chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ian Andre Carr and Kasem Damone Humphrey, both of Martinsburg, West Virginia, are facing drug charges after a grand jury indicted them earlier this week, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Carr, 49, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Heroin,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Fentanyl and Heroin,” four counts of “Distribution of Fentanyl and Heroin,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Heroin.”
Humphrey, 36, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Heroin,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Fentanyl and Heroin,” and two counts of “Distribution of Heroin.”
Both men are accused of working together to sell heroin and fentanyl from February 2018 to November 2020 in Berkeley County and elsewhere.
Carr and Humphrey each face up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each count.
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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Randolph County woman sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Patsy Meredith DeMary, of Beverly, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months of incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
DeMary, age 43, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in April 2019. DeMary admitted to working with another to distribute methamphetamine in Randolph County in 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives; the Mountain Region Drug Task Force; the Greater Harrison Drug Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; Upshur County Sheriff’s Office; Lewis County Sheriff’s Office; the Buckhannon Police Department; and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Jefferson County man admits to role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Duane Curtis Jackson, of Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jackson, also known as “Duke,” 28, pled guilty today 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.
Jackson faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case is the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally.
OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.Monongalia County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marquise Hicks, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hicks, 26, pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Offense.” Hicks admitted to having a 9mm pistol while in possession of marijuana in August 2019 in Monongalia County.
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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Monongalia County Probation Office investigated.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamineRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Christopher Monroe, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted today to a methamphetamine charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Monroe, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 grams or more of Methamphetamine.” Monroe admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” and “ice,” in Harrison County in December 2019.
Monroe at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Martinsburg Federal Grand Jury indicts four in kidnapping and murder caseRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Four Maryland residents are facing charges involving kidnapping and murder, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
The 9-count indictment involves a kidnapping and murder, as well as the murder of two witnesses. Those indicted are:
• Monroe Merrell, 23, of Westminster, Maryland
• David Ray Sanford, Jr., 26, of Westminster, Maryland
• John Westley Black, III, 23, of Westminster, Maryland
• Jeffrey Craig Smith, Jr., 23, of Taneytown, Maryland“This is one of the most heinous crimes I’ve seen, where three people lost their lives for what appears to have begun as a $40 debt. These crimes will be aggressively prosecuted. We owe that to the families of the victims and the citizens who count on us to do so. I want to thank the prosecutors in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties, the Carroll County Maryland States Attorney’s office, the multiple local and federal law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation and my office’s prosecution team who tirelessly worked to bring the indictment before the federal grand jury. I am confident that this exceptional group effort will result in a just conclusion of this tragic case,” said Powell.
Merrell, Sanford, and Black are each facing one count of “Aiding and Abetting Kidnapping Resulting in Death,” one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Kidnapping,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Corrupt Destruction of Object” involving the kidnapping and murder of J.R. in March 2020 in Jefferson County. Smith is charged with one count of “Accessory After the Fact” for allegedly assisting Merrell and Sanford, after the kidnapping and murder occurred.
Merrell, Sanford, and Smith are each facing one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Tampering with a Witness Causing Death” and two counts of “Aiding and Abetting Tampering with a Witness Causing Death” involving the murders of D.T. and H.G. who were witnesses of crimes against J.R. The murders occurred in April 2020 in Berkeley County.
Merrell and Sanford are also each facing one count of “Aiding and Abetting Intimidation of a Witness by Threats.” Merrell is facing one count of “Solicitation to Commit a Crime of Violence.”
“These indictments demonstrate the continuing commitment of federal, state and local law enforcement officials to work together to combat violent crime in the Martinsburg area,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Michael Christman. “The deaths of three people were a tragic occurrence, and I’m glad the collaborative effort put forth by all agencies has resulted in these charges. The kidnapping and murder allegations in this complaint reveal an indifference to human life that will not be tolerated.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberley D. Crockett and Jeffrey A. Finucane are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland State Police, Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office, and the Berkeley and Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorneys’ Offices. investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Jefferson County man indicted on charges he conspired against the U.S. and sold machine gun conversion devicesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy John Watson, of Ranson, West Virginia, is facing charges of conspiracy against the U.S. Government and selling machine gun conversion devices to extremists, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
“The suspect in this case appears to have supplied hundreds of people with these conversion devices, some to people who want to do Americans harm. Federal law is very specific on these types of devices, and the safety of the public from extremists is one of our highest priorities. Detecting this business front for what it actually was is due to the excellent law enforcement work that I have the honor of seeing every day. The indictment only reflects the charges, and we look forward to meeting our burden of proof,” said Powell.
Watson, 30, was indicted today on one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Offenses against the United States,” one count of “Unlawfully Engaging in the Business of Manufacturing Machineguns,” one count of “Illegal Possession and Transfer of Machineguns,” and one count of “Possession of Unregistered Firearm Silencer.”
Watson is suspected of selling machinegun conversion devices online without having a license to do so. The devices, called “drop in auto sears,” convert semi-automatic AR-15 rifles to fully automatic machine guns. The indictment alleges that Watson was selling the devices on a website that appeared to be selling wall hangers. This portable wall hanger business is suspected of marketing to Boogaloo adherents, a loosely organized far-right, anti-government, and extremist political movement in the U.S.
“The FBI remains focused on the threat posed by domestic violent extremists,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Michael Christman. “The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force works closely with our federal, state and local partners across the country to combat these serious threats. We cannot and will not allow these types of activities to inflict violence and harm to the American people.”
Watson faces up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the conspiracy count and faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the remaining counts. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Lara Omps-Botteicher are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service continues its investigation.
This case falls with the purview of the Attorney General’s Task Force to Combat Violent Anti-Government Extremism. Launched in June 2020, the Task Force is dedicated to supporting the investigation and prosecution of any person or group who commits violence in the name of an anti-government ideology.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Mark Allen Riffle, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Riffle, 32, pled guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Riffle, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, had a .380 caliber pistol, a .40 caliber pistol, a .22 caliber rifle, a .410-gauge shotgun, a .22 caliber rifle, and a 12-gauge shotgun in May 2019 in Harrison County.
Riffle 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative investigated.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
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 – Larry Bruce Heaster, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Heaster, 55, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Cocaine Base.” Heaster admitted to working with others to distribute the drugs from March 2018 to September 2020 in Monongalia County and elsewhere.
Heaster 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.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
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
Virginia woman admits to role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kaleah Scott, of Winchester, Virginia, has admitted to her role in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Scott, 40, pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl.” Scott admitted to working with others to distribute heroin, fentanyl from June to November 2019 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties and elsewhere.
Scott faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case is the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally.
OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Ohio and West Virginia residents indicted on drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Six West Virginia residents and an Ohio man are facing drug and firearms charges after a grand jury in Clarksburg indicted them in September, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
David Day Deberry, 34, of Terra Alta, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More Than Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine,” two counts of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm as Felon,” and one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.”
Brandy Hanshaw, also known as “Brandy Deberry,” 37, of Lumberport, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More Than Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm as Drug User,” and two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.”
John Palmer, 57, of Lore City, Ohio, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More Than Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm as Felon.”
Jeremy Moser, 40, of Shinnston, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More Than Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine,” four counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm as Drug User.”
Mark Yatulchik, also known as “Utah,” 50, of Shinnston, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More Than Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Maintaining Drug-involved Premises,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm as Felon.”
Kaylie Marie Jones, 25, of Wallace, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More Than Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine” and three counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.”
Amber Ramos, also known as “Amber Finch,” 32, of Hepzibah, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More Than Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine” and one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.”
The seven are accused of working together to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine from February 2017 to June 2018 in Harrison County and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County residents indicted on methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Harrison County residents are facing methamphetamine charges after a grand jury in Clarksburg indicted them on November 3, 2020, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Larry Thomas Gregory, II, 43, and Angela Nicole Chapman, 33, both of Shinnston, West Virginia, are each charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribute 500 grams or more of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 grams or more of Methamphetamine ,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 grams or more of Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises.”
The two are accused of working together to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine from September 2019 to February 2020, sometimes from their residence on Morris Street in Shinnston, in Harrison County.
Gregory and Chapman each face at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000 for each of the 500 grams or more of methamphetamine charges. Gregory and Chapman face not less than five and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the 50 grams of methamphetamine charge. They each also face up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 drug premises charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and the Shinnston Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Berkeley County woman indicted on drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jacqueline L. Krsul, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, was arrested today after an indictment charging her with cocaine possession, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Krsul, 30, is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Krsul is accused of having cocaine base or “crack” in April 2020 in Morgan County.
Krsul faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Morgan County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New Jersey man admits to role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kyle Flack, of Camden, New Jersey, has admitted to his role in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Flack, 37, pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl.” Flack admitted to working with others to distribute heroin, fentanyl from June to November 2019 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties and elsewhere.
Flack faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case is the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally.
OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.Grant and Hardy County residents indicted on fentanyl and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Three Hardy and Grant County residents are facing fentanyl and firearms charges after a grand jury in Wheeling indicted them in October, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Joshua Allen Hinkle, 35, of Cabins, West Virginia, is charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute at Least 40 Grams of Fentanyl” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.”
Cassie Leigh Kesner, 26, of Moorefield, West Virginia, is charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute at Least 40 Grams of Fentanyl,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Crime.”
Bryan Edward Summerton, 34, of Petersburg, West Virginia, is charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute at Least 40 Grams of Fentanyl” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Crime.”
The three are accused of working together to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl in April 2020 in Grant County and elsewhere. Kesner and Sumerton are accused of having firearms during at least one drug trafficking crime.
Hinkle, Kesner, and Summerton each face at least five years and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the conspiracy charge. Hinkle also faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the possession of fentanyl charge. Kesner also faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the possession of fentanyl charge and faces at least five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms charge. Summerton also faces at least five 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Grant County man indicted on methamphetamine and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Caleb Haggerty, of Petersburg, West Virginia, is facing drug and firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Haggerty, 36, was indicted by a grand jury sitting in Wheeling in October on six counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,” and “Possession of Unregistered Firearm.” Haggerty is accused of selling methamphetamine in January, February, and March 2020 in Grant County. Haggerty, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of prior convictions, is also accused of having an unregistered, modified 12-gauge shotgun in March 2020 in Grant County.
Haggerty faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each drug charge. He faces up to 10 years of incarceration for each of the firearms 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Grant County man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Aaron Roy, of Maysville, West Virginia, is facing a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Roy, 35, is was indicted by a grand jury sitting in Wheeling in October on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Roy, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of prior convictions, is also accused of having a .380 caliber pistol in January 2020 in Grant County.
Roy 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 and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Grant County man indicted on drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jay Dean Hall, of Petersburg, West Virginia, is facing drug and firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hall, 55, is was indicted by a grand jury sitting in Wheeling in October on one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Crime.” Hall is accused of using his home on Spencer Drive in Petersburg as a drug distribution location and distributing methamphetamine in August 2019 in Grant County. Hall, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, is also accused of having a 9mm rifle in his home.
Hall faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each drug charge. He faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the unlawful possession charge and faces at least five years of incarceration for the firearm during a drug crime 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Jefferson County man admits to role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shaquan Omar Richardson, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Richardson, also known as “Wave,” 24, pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute One Kilogram or More of a Mixture and Substance Containing Phencyclidine (PCP)” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 280 Grams or More of Cocaine Base.” Richardson admitted to working with others to distribute PCP from August 2019 to September 2019 in Jefferson County and elsewhere. He also admitted to distributing more than 280 grams or more of cocaine base or “crack” in September 2019 in Jefferson County.
Richardson faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
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 was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.Pennsylvania man sentenced for bank fraudRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Randall Joseph Smail, of Jeannette, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to two days of incarceration for bank fraud, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Smail, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Bank Fraud” in July 2020. Smail defrauded Pendleton Community Bank of approximately $552,533. Smail created a fictitious account statement from Kraken Bitcoin Exchange, showing he had $640,000,000 in Bitcoin currency that he produced when applying for a loan from the bank, knowing he did not own any Bitcoin currency. He also produced other fictitious paperwork, showing $10,000,000 in another bank that he transferred from his cryptocurrency account, all of which he knew was false. He used these false documents to defraud the bank.
Smail was ordered to pay $773,093.90 in restitution to the victims.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae Demasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Wheeling man sentenced for distributing methRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Deante Creel, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 121 months of incarceration for drug distribution in the Wheeling area, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Creel, also known as “G,” pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in June 2020. Creel, age 33, admitted to having methamphetamine in Ohio County in May 2019.
Creel was also ordered for forfeit $12,467 in cash, three firearms, and ammunition.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
U.s. Attorneys Bill Powell and Mike Stuart Announce $4.85 Million to Combat Violent Crime in West VirginiaRead the Press Release
WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorneys Bill Powell and Mike Stuart today announced more than $4.85 million in Department of Justice grants to fight and prevent violent crime in the Northern and Southern Districts of West Virginia. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, are part of more than $458 million in funding to support state, local and tribal law enforcement efforts to combat violent crime in jurisdictions across the United States.
“One of the fundamental missions of government is to protect its citizens and safeguard the rule of law,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The Department of Justice will continue to meet this critical responsibility by doing everything within its power to help our state, local and tribal law enforcement and criminal justice partners fight crime and deliver justice on behalf of all Americans.”
The funding announced today continues the Trump Administration’s commitment to reducing crime and improving public safety. In the two years before President Trump took office, America had experienced a precipitous rise in crime, particularly in serious violent crime. The President elevated community safety to the top of his domestic agenda and crime rates have fallen steadily since. Recent data from the FBI and the Bureau of Justice Statistics for 2019 show a drop in crime and serious victimization for the third year in a row. However, a number of cities are experiencing conspicuous countertrends. Today’s grants will bolster crime-fighting efforts in those communities and in jurisdictions throughout the United States.
“Violence has become a tragic reality in too many of America’s communities,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “Working with officials across the Trump Administration and with thousands of state, local and tribal crime-fighters across the country, the Department of Justice is leading the response to this urgent challenge. OJP is pleased to make these resources available to support innovative, tested and diverse solutions to violent crime.”
“I am proud to announce funding that will assist law enforcement in keeping our great state safe for all of us. We must continue our good work to ensure that West Virginia continues to be “almost heaven,” said Powell.
“I am thankful for this Justice Department funding that will further support law enforcement efforts to reduce violent crime,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We will continue to work closely with our federal, state and local partners to keep West Virginia communities safe.”
Of the more than $458 million awarded nationwide, OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance made 1,094 grants totaling more than $369 million to support a broad range of initiatives, including efforts in enforcement, prosecution, adjudication, detention and rehabilitation.
OJP’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention awarded more than $10 million across 24 jurisdictions to intervene in and suppress youth gang activity as well as $1 million to the Institute for Intergovernmental Research to continue operating the National Gang Center. OJP’s National Institute of Justice awarded $7.8 million to fund research and evaluation on the prevention and reduction of violent crime. OJP’s Bureau of Justice Statistics provided more than $69 million to strengthen the quality and accessibility of records within the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.
The following organizations received funding:
BJA Project Safe Neighborhoods ($166,713) The efforts of Project Safe Neighborhoods include addressing criminal gangs and the felonious possession and use of firearms. PSN collaborates with local, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies, as well as the communities they serve, in a unified approach led by the U.S. Attorney in all 94 districts. Information on the awards is available here.
• Northern District of West Virginia: $88,955
• Southern District of West Virginia: $77,758BJA Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant ($1.575 million) Byrne JAG supports a broad range of initiatives that work to prevent and reduce violent crime. It also provides funds to help crime victims and assist efforts in enforcement, prosecution, adjudication, detention and rehabilitation. Byrne JAG grants local and tribal, and state, District of Columbia and territory awards through separate solicitations.
• City of Wheeling: $40,284
• City of Martinsburg: $10,797
• City of Morgantown: $12,783
• Berkeley County: $10,846
• Marion County: $10,507
• Monongalia County: $15,833
• Randolph County: $10,120
• City of Huntington: $60,862
• City of Charleston: $81,005
• City of Parkersburg: $30,165
• City of Beckley: $23,241
• City of Bluefield: $15,833
• City of South Charleston: $10,216
• Kanawha County: $42,802
• Wood County: $15,300
• Fayette County: $10,652
• Jackson County: $12,056
• Logan County: $15,639
• Mercer County: $11,233
• Nicholas County: $22,031
• Putnam County: $24,500
• Raleigh County: $15,785
• State of West Virginia: $1,072,540
National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Act Record Improvement Program (NARIP) ($1.73 million) NARIP provides financial and technical assistance to states and tribes to improve the completeness, automation and transmittal of records to state and federal systems used by the NCIS.• West Virginia Court of Appeals: $1,739,332
National Criminal History Improvement Program ($1.37 million) NCHIP enhances the quality, completeness, and accessibility of criminal history record information to state, territory and federal systems used by the NICS and ensures the nationwide implementation of criminal justice and noncriminal justice background check systems.
• West Virginia Justice and Community Services: $1,374,733
For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, click here.
Steubenville man sentenced for his role in a drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Bernard Barnett, of Steubenville, Ohio, was sentenced today to 41 months of incarceration for his role in a crack cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Barnett, age 44, also known as “Gator,” pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base” in January 2020. Barnett admitted to selling cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in January 2019 in Brooke County.Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danae DeMasi-Lemon and Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. 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.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Physician indicted on assault chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dr. Kenneth C. Ramdat, a physician employed at the Louis A. Johnson VA Hospital in Clarksburg, West Virginia, is facing federal criminal charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ramdat, 65, of Silver Springs, Maryland, was indicted on two counts of “Abusive Sexual Contact” and two counts of “Simple Assault.” Ramdat is accused of touching two staff women’s breasts without permission in two separate incidents in August 2019 and October 2019 at the hospital in Harrison County.
Ramdat faces up to two years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the sexual contact counts and faces up to six months of incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000 for the assault counts. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Monongalia County man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Carlentez McDaniel, of Morgantown, West Virginia, is facing a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
McDaniel, 32, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” McDaniel, who is prohibited from having a gun, is accused of having a .45 caliber Glock pistol in February 2020 in Monongalia County.
McDaniel 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 Sarah E. Wagner 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.
Monongalia County man indicted on child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas John Winston, of Westover, West Virginia, is facing a child pornography charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Winston, 30, was indicted on one count of “Possession of Child Pornography – Previous Conviction.” Winston, who was previously convicted of child pornography possession, is accused of having child pornography in his possession in August 2019 in Preston County.
Winston faces at least 10 years and 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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
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/.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Inmates and Illinois woman indicted on drug chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two inmates and an Illinois woman are facing charges involving smuggling suboxone into FCI Gilmer in Glenville, West Virginia, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Quadiri Ayodele, 41, and Francisco Masias, 41, both inmates at FCI Gilmer, and Joanna Masias, 36, of Cicero, Illinois, are each facing one count of “Conspiracy to Introduce and Obtain a Prohibited Object (Narcotic)” and one count of “Attempt to Introduce a Prohibited Object (Narcotic).” Joanna is also facing one count of “False Statement to a Federal Agency.” The three are accused of developing a plan to smuggle suboxone into FCI Gilmer in March and April 2019. Joanna is also accused of lying on a form at the prison that stated she didn’t have narcotics in her possession.
Ayodele, Francisco Masias, and Joanna Masias each face up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the conspiracy count and up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the contraband count. Joanna Masias also faces up to five years o incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the false statement count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Services investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ohio man sentenced for drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ryan Thomas Savage, of Wintersville, Ohio, was sentenced today to 37 months of incarceration for his role in a cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Savage, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride, Cocaine Base, Heroin, and Fentanyl” in December 2019. Savage admitted to working with others to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin and fentanyl in Hancock County and elsewhere from February 2018 to August 2019.Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danae DeMasi-Lemon and Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. 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.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Ohio County man sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Benjamin John Woodring, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 77 months incarceration for drug distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Woodring, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 feet of a Protected Location” in December 2019. Woodring admitted to selling methamphetamine near Luau Manor in Ohio County in March 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Jefferson County man sentenced for role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –Victor Lamont Carr, of Ranson, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day of incarceration for his role in a drug distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Carr, age 61, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Hydrochloride” in October 2019. Carr admitted to selling cocaine hydrochloride for $40 in July 2018 in Jefferson County.
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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and Assistant U.S Attorney Timothy D. Helman, prosecued the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation; 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 investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Cleveland man admits to selling cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jalen Deshon Dalton, of Cleveland, Ohio, has admitted to a drug charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Dalton, also known as “NBA J” and “J,” age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Dalton admitted to selling cocaine near Madison Elementary School on Wheeling Island in December 2019.
Dalton 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.
Ohio man admits to selling cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Quaison Maurice Harris, of Willoughby Hills, Ohio, has admitted to a drug charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell 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.” Harris admitted to selling cocaine near Belle Isle Playground on Wheeling Island in February 2020.
Harris 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.
Berkeley County residents admit to roles in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three Berkeley County residents have admitted to their roles in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Braheem Jamal Gilbert, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, and Cocaine Base.” Gilbert, also known as “Slick,” 31, 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.
Ashley Marie Seal, of Bunker Hill, West Virginia, pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, and Cocaine Base.” Seal, 32, 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.
Ashley Lynn Hess, of Inwood, West Virginia, pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of a Mixture and Substance Containing Phencyclidine (PCP)” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Hess, 31, admitted to selling PCP and cocaine hydrochloride or “coke” in September 2019 in Berkeley County.
Gilbert, Seal, and Hess each face up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
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 was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.Monongalia County woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Candis Sanders, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Sanders, 38, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” Sanders admitted to using a phone to distribute a controlled substance in March 2020 in Monongalia County.
Sanders 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.
These charges are the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kyle Alexander Martin, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Martin, 33, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Martin admitted to having heroin in November 2019 in Monongalia County.
Martin 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). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Mineral County man admits to cocaine chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Davaun Alonzo Ambush, of Keyser, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ambush, 25, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Ambush admitted to having “crack” cocaine in January 2020 in Mineral County.
Ambush 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 West Virginia State Police and the Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Michigan man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dejuan Bernard Williams, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to a drug charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Williams, 27, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Williams admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in October 2019 in Marion County.
Williams faces at least ten years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and White Hall Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Marshall County woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Phoebe E. Harmon, of Cameron, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Harmon, 41, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Harmon admitted to selling methamphetamine in April 2020 in Marshall County.
Harmon 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. 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.
Marion County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Willie Edward Robinson, Jr., of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Robinson, 62, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Robinson, who is prohibited from having a firearm because of a previous conviction, admitted to having a 410 gauge shotgun and a 12 gauge shotgun in February 2019 in Marion County.
Robinson 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 Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fairmont Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Wheeling man admits to selling methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Johnnie Lee Harris, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Harris, also known as “Jay,” 40, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of Protected Location.” Harris admitted to selling methamphetamine near River Towers in Wheeling in September 2019.
Harris faces at least one and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Morgantown woman admits to illegal firearms purchaseRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cheyann Ciarra Hammonds, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hammonds, 25, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement During Purchase of a Firearm.” Hammonds admitted to falsifying the paperwork to purchase a Glock pistol for someone else in Monongalia County in September 2016.
Hammonds 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 Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.