Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Berkeley County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Ronald Monroe, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months incarceration for a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Monroe, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm” in October 2019. Monroe, having been previously convicted of a felony, admitted to having a 9mm pistol and a .380 caliber pistol in August 2017 in Berkeley County.
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.Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Martinsburg Police Department investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County man sentenced for child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Alan Himelright, of Inwood, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 121 months incarceration for distributing child pornography, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Himelright, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Child Pornography” in September 2019. Himelright admitted to distributing child pornography in October 2018 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley D. Crockett prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office 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/.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Ohio County man admits to drug distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Hermon Clemons, Jr., of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to drug distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Clemons, age 50, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.” Clemons admitted to working with others to distribute cocaine base, methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl in Ohio County and elsewhere from September 2018 to June 2019.
Clemons faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Jefferson County man admits to role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Allen Craig, of Ranson, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl drug distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Craig, age 57, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine Hydrochloride, and Cocaine Base.” Craig admitted to working with a group of people to the drugs from March 2018 to January 2019 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties and elsewhere.
Craig faces up to 20 years 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 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, are prosecuting 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). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Marion County man charged with child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Allen Bowman, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was indicted today on child pornography charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Bowman, age 31, is charged with two counts of “Production of Child Pornography.” Bowman is accused enticing a minor into sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of pictures to distribute electronically. The crimes are alleged to have occurred in July 2019 in Marion County.
Bowman faces at least 15 years and up to 30 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Monongah Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County man charged with firearms violationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Al-Teric Garrett, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was indicted today on a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Garrett, age 28, is charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Garrett, who was previously convicted of felony charges and prohibited from having a firearm, is accused of having a 9mm pistol in August 2019 in Harrison County.
Garrett faces up to 15 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley 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.
Ohio man admits to drug distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –David Frankenhoff, of Newark, Ohio, has admitted to a drug distribution charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Frankenhoff, age 51, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute 3,4-Dichloro-N-[2-(dimethylamino) cyclohexyl]-Nmethylbenzamide (“U47700”).” Frankenhoff admitted to working with another to distribute “U47700,” a synthetic opioid, from June 2016 to December 2016 in Ohio County and elsewhere.
Frankenhoff faces up to 20 years 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 L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Michigan man sentenced for role in cocaine and heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jerel Seahorn, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration for drug distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Seahorn, also known as “L,” age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin” in August 2019. Seahorn admitted to selling heroin in March 2018 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Hardy County man admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Larry Allen Lyons, of Moorefield, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lyons, age 55, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Lyons admitted to working with others to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine from March 2018 to May 2018 in Mineral, Grant, and Randolph Counties.Lyons faces not less than 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; and the Ravenswood Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
U.S. Attorney awards winning high school for drug-free PSA contestRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Bill Powell has named Wheeling Central Catholic High School as the winner of the drug-free public service announcement contest launched at the beginning of the school year.
The contest encouraged high school students from across the Northern District of West Virginia to spread the message of the dangers of drugs by holding a public service announcement contest.
“I was very honored to judge the videos we received. If we are to win the opioid battle, education and prevention at the high school level is incredibly important. The students who worked so hard on their submissions and are to be commended. Their messages were inspiring. The dedication of these students demonstrated a real understanding of the issues, and I know the PSA will help in the ongoing education and prevention efforts,” said Powell.
The contest, which was open to all high schools in the 32 counties in the Northern District of West Virginia, gave students the chance to write, act, and produce in their own television PSA, promoting a drug-free high school. Eight high schools participated.
All videos were watched and judged by a panel of law enforcement partners. The judges were U.S. Attorney Bill Powell; Catherine Polichicchio with the FBI in Pittsburgh; and Stephanie Collins with ATF in Louisville, Kentucky. The winner was announced at the Cancer Research Classic basketball tournament January 3, 2020 at WesBanco Arena in Wheeling. The winner received an award from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the PSA will be shared with media outlets across the district for airing. All videos submitted to the contest were showcased at the tournament.
Students were encouraged to join the Drug Free Club of America at their school to gain free admission to the event.
Morgantown man admits to firearms violationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christian Stevens, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Stevens, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting a False Statement During Purchase of Firearms.” Stevens admitted to conspiring with another to illegally purchase two pistols from a firearms dealer in December 2016 in Monongalia County.Stevens faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Pennsylvania man admits to firearms violationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles Lynn, of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, has admitted to a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lynn, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Flynn, a convicted felon, admitted to illegally possessing a 12 gauge shotgun, a .308 caliber rifle, and a 7mm caliber rifle in October 2018 in Monongalia County.Lynn faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pennsylvania State Police investigated.
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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Attorney General William P. Barr Announces Launch of Operation Relentless PursuitRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Bill Powell is applauding the announcement made by Attorney General William P. Barr last week regarding the launch of “Operation Relentless Pursuit,” an initiative aimed at combating violent crime in seven of America’s most violent cities through a surge in federal resources.
Attorney General Barr pledged to intensify federal law enforcement resources into Albuquerque, Baltimore, Cleveland, Detroit, Kansas City, Memphis, and Milwaukee – seven American cities with violent crime levels several times the national average.
“Many of the violent offenders targeted by this initiative are also bringing that violence into the Northern District of West Virginia, pedaling their illegal drugs and firearms. Combatting violent crime is a continuing top priority in my district, as it is the Attorney General’s top priority across the country,” said Powell.
The operation will involve increasing the number of federal law enforcement officers to the selected cities, as well as bulking up federal task forces through collaborative efforts with state and local law enforcement partners. The surge in federal agents will be complemented by a financial commitment of up to $71 million in federal grant funding that can be used to hire new officers, pay overtime and benefits, finance federally deputized task force officers, and provide mission-critical equipment and technology.
Ohio man admits to drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ryan Thomas Savage, of Wintersville, Ohio, has admitted to 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.” 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.Savage faces up to 20 years 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 Danae DeMasi-Lemon and Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. are prosecuting 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). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Ohio man admits to cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Mustafa Ali Vaughn, of Canal Winchester, Ohio, has admitted to drug distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Vaughn, also known as “Moose” and “Fargo,” age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Vaughn admitted to selling cocaine near Luau Manor in Ohio County in May 2019.
Vaughn faces at least one and up to 40 years 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 & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Derrick Morris, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months incarceration for a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Morris, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense” in September 2019. Morris, who is prohibited from having a firearm because of a previous conviction, is admitted to having a .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol during a drug offense in Monongalia County in November 2018.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Ohio woman sentenced for using juvenile to sell methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Alicia J. Evans, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced today to 57 months incarceration for a drug distribution charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Alicia J. Evans, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Using a Juvenile to Distribute Methamphetamine” in October 2019. Evans admitted to using a minor to sell methamphetamine in August 2018 in Marshall County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., prosecuted the case 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.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Ohio County man admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Benjamin John Woodring, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to drug distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Woodring, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Woodring admitted to selling methamphetamine near Luau Manor in Ohio County in March 2019.
Woodring faces at least one and up to 40 years 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 cases on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Doddridge County man sentenced for sex offender registry violationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tyler Patrick Pietschmann, of Greenwood, West Virginia, was sentenced today to time served and five years of supervised release for failing to register as a sex offender, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pietschmann, age 21, will serve the first three months of his supervised release on home detention. He pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration” in September 2019. Pietschmann, a person required to register as a sex offender, admitted to traveling from Pennsylvania to West Virginia without updating his sex offender registration from December 2018 to February 2019.
This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Berkeley County couple admit to fraudRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jimmie and Thanikwa Thompson, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, have admitted to wire fraud, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jimmie, age 26, and Thanikwa, age 25, each pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud.” The Thompsons secured a renter’s insurance policy from Allstate Insurance Company for $85,000 in February 2018. Later that month, the Thompsons purchased a space heater from a retailer and positioned it against an inflatable air mattress in their apartment on Winchester Avenue in Martinsburg. The couple then left the apartment with their dog to allow the space heater time to catch the apartment on fire. They then filed a fraudulent claim with Allstate to recover $50,000 of losses from the fire, and to secure a hotel room for several months of temporary housing.
Jimme and Thanikwa are each facing up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher and Jarod J. Douglas are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Fire Marshal and Allstate Insurance Company investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Randolph County man charged with drug and firearms crimesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Daniel Smith, of Elkins, West Virginia, was indicted today on drug and firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Smith, age 36, is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Smith, who was previously convicted of a felony and is prohibited from having a firearm, is accused of having methamphetamine, heroin, a .380 caliber pistol, a .45 caliber pistol, and a .22 caliber rifle in January 2018 in Randolph County.
Smith faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each drug count and faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force; the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office; and the Elkins Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New Jersey man charged with sex offender registry violationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason Steven Kokinda, of Hammonton, New Jersey, was indicted today on a sex offender registry charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Kokinda, age 41, is charged with one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration.” Kokinda is required to update his sex offender registration. He is accused of traveling from New Jersey, New York, Vermont, and Delaware to West Virginia without updating his registration in August 2019 in Randolph and Pendleton Counties.
Kokinda faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service, the West Virginia State Police, and the Elkins Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Lewis County man charged with firearms violationsRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Samuel Lee Donaldson, Jr., of Weston, West Virginia, was indicted today on a firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Donaldson, age 35, is charged with two counts of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Donaldson, who was previously convicted of domestic battery and prohibited from having a firearm, is accused of having a 9mm pistol in October 2019 in Lewis County.
Donaldson faces up to 10 years 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ohio County man sentenced for methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin R. Beaver, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 105 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Beaver, age 27, pled guilty to four counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in August 2019. Beaver admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Marshall County in November 2018.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Marshall County man sentenced for firearms violationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – William M. Johnson, Jr., of McMechen, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 15 months incarceration for a firearms violation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Johnson, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement to Acquire Firearm.” Johnson admitted to making a false statement when purchasing a firearm. Johnson claimed the weapon was for his use, when, in fact, he purchased the .40 caliber pistol for a convicted felon. The crime took place in August 2018 in Ohio County.
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. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Department of Justice Awards Nearly $38 Million to Reduce Crime, Improve Public Safety in West VirginiaRead the Press Release
Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan today joined Ann Urling, Deputy Chief of Staff for Governor Jim Justice, in announcing awards of almost $38 million to fight crime and improve community safety in West Virginia. Nearly $8 million of the total will support families, children and crime victims caught up in the nation’s opioid crisis.
U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia Michael B. Stuart, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia William J. Powell, Acting Director of OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance Tracey Trautman and Director of the West Virginia Division of Justice and Community Services Joseph C. Thornton also participated in the announcement.
“The opioid crisis has destroyed far too many lives and left too many Americans feeling helpless and hopeless, and the people of West Virginia have borne the brunt of it,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Sullivan for the Office of Justice Programs. “This epidemic — the most deadly in our nation’s history — is introducing new dangers and loading public health responsibilities onto the public safety duties of our law enforcement officers. The Department of Justice is here to support them during this unprecedented and extremely challenging time.”
West Virginia is the epicenter of the opioid crisis, with the highest age-adjusted rate of opioid overdose deaths in the country. According to data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 833 West Virginians lost their lives to opioids in 2017, a rate of 49.6 deaths per 100,000 persons, more than three times the national average. The sharpest increase in opioid-involved overdose deaths involved synthetic opioids like fentanyl.
“I’ve said over and over that we need to do everything humanly possible — and invest every single dollar we can — into helping the people caught up in the horrible opioid crisis once and for all,” said Governor Justice. “I congratulate and thank the many hard-working people who made it possible for us to receive this funding that is going to allow us to make a difference in the lives of countless West Virginians. But we can’t stop here. We all need to dig deep and work even harder now to ensure that this funding is used effectively and efficiently to help provide relief to as many West Virginians as possible.”
“Record and historic funding. These grant funds are critical to West Virginia to continue our work at combatting the opioid epidemic and to advance and combat a wide range of criminal justice, juvenile justice and victim service activities,” said United States Attorney Stuart for the Southern District of West Virginia. “I am focused every day with a true sense of urgency to ensure the protection and safety of the people of West Virginia. Too many West Virginians have lost their lives to drug overdose and our communities and families have suffered beyond measure. The funding provided through the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Program will support healing of the most innocent victims of the opioid crisis — our children — and further efforts to get individuals with substance use disorder much needed treatment. This funding from the Department of Justice will no doubt save lives and make West Virginia a safer, better place to live and a destination for companies to grow their operations.”
“I want to thank Attorney General Barr, the Office of Justice Programs and the Department of Justice for their support of West Virginia. U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart and I recognize that despite our record numbers of prosecutions, the opioid crisis in our state requires a plan of attack that includes education, community outreach and healthcare support,” said U.S. Attorney Powell for the Northern District of West Virginia. “These grants will help children exposed to the trauma and violence that the opioid crisis brings, add health services in our rural areas and identify at-risk individuals in an effort to divert them from a path of sorrow, heartbreak and other consequences. When we work together, real progress can be made.”
A $6.5 million grant to the DCJS will support the Handle With Care initiative, a statewide program that serves children exposed to trauma and violence. Funding also expands the West Virginia Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion, or LEAD, program, which steers low-level drug offenders away from prosecution. A third DCJS effort will provide telehealth services, including counseling and medication assisted treatment, to underserved and geographically isolated communities in the state. The remaining $1.5 million in Justice Department grants will support mental health services for at-risk youth in Berkeley County and a research-based peer recovery and data analysis program in the city of Charleston.
West Virginia’s opioid-related grants are part of more than $333 million in Justice Department awards going to states, tribes and communities to combat opioids and other drugs. Most of the funding is made available through the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Program, which is designed to reduce opioid abuse and drug-related deaths by helping law enforcement agencies and treatment providers coordinate their response. Additional funds are being directed to address a nationwide increase in the abuse of methamphetamines. Overdose deaths from meth and other psychostimulants rose 25 percent annually between 2015 and 2018. Grants from the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services support anti-meth task forces aimed at taking down traffickers that supply cheap and highly pure forms of the drug.
The remainder of the state’s awards cover a wide range of criminal justice, juvenile justice and victim service activities. Grants will support school safety initiatives, law enforcement hiring and equipment purchases, services for domestic violence and sexual assault victims, inmate reentry services, DNA analysis, youth mentoring and efforts to combat online child exploitation and manage sex offenders. Awards were made by the three grant-making components of the Department of Justice — OJP, the COPS Office and the Office on Violence Against Women.
A full list of OJP awards, organized under specific grant programs, is available online at https://ojp.gov/funding/Explore/OJPAwardData.htm. For COPS awards, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/grants. OVW awards can be found at https://www.justice.gov/ovw/awards.
About the Office of Justice Programs:
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
About the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services:
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 130,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
About the Office on Violence Against Women:
The Office on Violence Against Women provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through the implementation of the Violence Against Women Act and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities across the country that are developing programs, policies and practices aimed at ending domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
Michigan man sentenced to more than 24 years for drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Terrence D. Marsh, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 295 months incarceration for drug distribution and firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
After a four-day trial in August 2019, a jury deliberated for 35 minutes before finding Marsh, age 38, guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Possess With the Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession With the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession With the Intent to Distribute Heroin within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession With the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime.”
Marsh conspired with others to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and more than 500 grams of methamphetamine in Marion County and elsewhere from the fall of 2018 to January 2019. Some of the drug dealing took place near West Fairmont Middle School, and included the presence of firearms.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Traci M. Cook and Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Three Rivers Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Michigan man sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Delon Phillip Price, of Dearborn, Michigan, was sentenced today to 63 months incarceration for drug distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Price, also known as “Pedro,” age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” in August 2019. Price admitted to selling heroin near West Virginia University in November 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Harrison County man sentenced for selling methamphetamineRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Robert Lyons, of Salem, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 20 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine near a playground, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lyons, age 46, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location” in July 2019. Lyons admitted to selling methamphetamine near Jackson Park playground in Harrison County in February 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced to more than 15 years for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Khareem Sampson, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 188 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Sampson, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in April 2019. Sampson admitted to distributing methamphetamine in July 2018 in Monongalia County.Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Lemar Sheldon Conliffe, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 72 months incarceration for a drug charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Conliffe, also known as “AB,” age 43, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base” in April 2019. Conliffe admitted to working with another to sell cocaine base in April 2018 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Mississippi man sentenced to more than 12 years for role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kedric Pearson, of Waynesboro, Mississippi, was sentenced today to 148 months incarceration for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pearson, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” in April 2019. Pearson admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine in Harrison County and elsewhere from the fall of 2017 to September 2018.
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.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Marshall County man admits to firearms chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Demetrius Moore, of Benwood, West Virginia, has admitted to firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Moore, age 46, pled guilty to one count of “Prohibited Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” Moore, having previously been convicted for a felony, is accused of illegally having a 7.62 caliber rifle and a 9mm caliber pistol from July to August 2018 in Marshall County. The rifle was allegedly stolen.
Moore is facing up to 10 years 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. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Justice Department Announces More Than $376 Million in Awards to Promote Public SafetyRead the Press Release
WHEELING – The Department of Justice this week announced that it has awarded more than $376 million in grant funding to enhance state, local and tribal law enforcement operations and reinforce public safety efforts in jurisdictions across the United States. $350,520 will support public safety activities in the Northern District of West Virginia. The awards were made by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs.
“Crime and violence hold families, friends and neighborhoods hostage, and they rip communities apart,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “These programs help restore the health and safety of crime-ravaged communities by supporting prevention activities, aiding in the apprehension and prosecution of perpetrators, facilitating appropriate sentencing and adjudication, and providing communities and their residents the means for recovery and healing.”
The awards announced today support an array of crime-fighting initiatives, including the quarter-billion dollar Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grants Program, which funds public safety efforts in 929 state, local and tribal jurisdictions. Funding also supports sex offender registration and notification, law enforcement-based victim services, the testing of sexual assault kits, and programs designed to address youth with sexual behavioral problems. Other awards will focus on wrongful convictions, intellectual property enforcement, innovative prosecution strategies and the safety and effectiveness of corrections systems.
“I was so pleased to see the grant announcements from the Department of Justice. Several of our local law enforcement agencies now have additional resources to protect our citizens. My office is proud to work with these recipients and all of our law enforcement on a daily basis. I know these additional funds will greatly help the work of these terrific law enforcement partners,” said Powell.
The following awards were made to organizations in the Northern District of West Virginia:
• City of Wheeling, Wheeling Police Department: $295,163
• City of Martinsburg, Martinsburg Police Department: $13,575
• City of Morgantown, Morgantown Police Department: $13,734
• Monongalia County, Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office: $15,371
• Berkeley County Council, Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office: $12,677Statewide, the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation received $250,000, and the West Virginia Division of Administrative Services, Justice and Community Services received $1,191,487.
Information about the programs and awards announced today is available here. For more information about OJP awards, visit the OJP Awards Data webpage.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training and technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems.
Marshall County man charged with drug traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael J. Blake, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was arrested today and had an initial appearance after being indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling on December 3, 2019, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Blake, age 40, is charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Blake is accused of selling methamphetamine out of a home on 11th Street in Moundsville from June to November 2019.
Blake faces up to 20 years 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Ohio County man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Shawndale Davis, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was indicted today by a federal grand jury on a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Davis, age 36, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Davis, having been convicted of two prior felonies and prohibited from having firearms, is accused of having a .45 caliber revolver in October 2019 in Ohio County.
Davis faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Colorado man sentenced for drug chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Johnny L. Morgan, of Walsenburg, Colorado, was sentenced today to 210 months incarceration for drug charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Morgan, age 67, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Marijuana, Tetrahydrocannabinol, and Methamphetamine ,” one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Distribution of Tetrahydrocannabinol,” and one count of “Distribution of Marijuana” in September 2018. Morgan admitted to distributing marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol, and methamphetamine in June and July 2017 in Braxton County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Martinsburg man admits to role in cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony Jones, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jones, also known as “Moosa,” age 42, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” Jones admitted to using a phone to arrange a heroin purchase in December 2018 in Berkeley County.
Jones is facing up to four years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney 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, are prosecuting 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). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Lewis County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Shawn Andrew Hunt, of Weston, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hunt, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Hunt admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Marshall County in February 2019.
Hunt is facing up to 30 years 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 Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Moundsville Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Berkeley County woman charged with theft of government propertyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Crystal M. Tress, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was arrested today and had an initial appearance after being indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg on November 16, 2019, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Tress, age 41, was indicted on one count of “Theft of Government Property.” Tress is accused of embezzling more than $1,000 that belonged to the United States government while she was employed at the Veterans Canteen Service. The crime allegedly took place from April 2018 to March 2019 in Berkeley County.
Tress faces up to 10 years incarceration. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley D. Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Veterans Affairs Police investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County man indicted on child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeffrey Allen Johnson, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was arrested today and had an initial appearance after being indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg on November 16, 2019, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Johnson, age 49, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Child Pornography” and one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Johnson is accused of having and distributing child pornography in December 2018 and May 2019 in Berkeley County.
Johnson faces no less than five years and up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the distribution charge and faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the possession charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley D. Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brendan Regan Boddie, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 36 months incarceration for a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Boddie, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearms by Person Convicted of Domestic Violence Crime” in May 2019. Boddie, having previously been convicted of domestic violence, admitted to having two pistols, two rifles, and one shotgun in April 2018 in Monongalia County.
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 Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Harrison County man sentenced for role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Paul Casto, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 108 months incarceration for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Casto, age 56, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in May 2019. Casto admitted to selling methamphetamine in Harrison County in June 2018.
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.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Fairmont man sentenced to life for enticing minorsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Quionte Jordan Crawford, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced to five life sentences to run concurrently for using his smart phone to convince minors to send explicit pictures and videos, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Crawford, also known as “Kayla Stevens,” age 27, pled guilty to five counts of “Enticement of a Minor” in June 2019. Crawford admitted to using his smart phone to persuade five different teenage boys to send sexually explicit pictures and videos to him. The crimes took place from November 2017 to December 2018 in Marion County.
“The defendant’s conduct was reprehensible and directed at children. Unfortunately, technology provides many options for those with evil intent. The defendant will now spend the rest of his life in a place where he cannot continue the vile activities he orchestrated,” said Powell.
Crawford preyed on teenagers by using a fake persona and picture of a teenage girl to attract their attention and to coerce them into sharing the inappropriate pictures and videos. Crawford used threats at times to gain the explicit materials.
Crawford deftly, and sometimes cruelly, employed emotional and psychological coercion in order to obtain gratification for his sexual interests.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bridgeport Police Department 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/.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kenneth Buzzo, of Granville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years’ probation, with the first six months on home detention, for his involvement in a drug distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Buzzo, age 58, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base” in April 2019. Buzzo, age 58, admitted to selling cocaine base in Monongalia County in June 2018.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Harrison County woman sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Ashley Wagner, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to for her involvement in methamphetamine distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wagner, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” in April 2019. Wagner admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine from October 2017 to September 2018 in Harrison County and elsewhere.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. The United States Marshal Service assisted in the arrests.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Detroit woman sentenced for role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Geronda Wilson, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to five years’ probation for her involvement in a drug distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wilson, age 43, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises” in March 2019. Wilson admitted to maintain a home in Morgantown, West Virginia, for the purpose of distributing heroin, oxycodone, a crack cocaine from May 2017 to May 2018.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The United States Marshal Service assisted.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Maryland man admits to bank robberyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven L. Silverman, of Thurmont, Maryland, has admitted to bank robbery, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Silverman, age 50, pled guilty to one count of “Bank Robbery.” Silverman admitted to robbing the City National Bank of Berkeley Springs of $1,730 on June 4, 2019.
Silverman faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley D. Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Morgan County Sheriff’s Office and the Berkeley Springs Police Department investigated.
U.S Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Hardy County man admits to heroin and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Juston Wimer, of Old Fields, West Virginia, has admitted to drug distribution and firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wimer, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Crime.” Wimer admitted to distributing heroin in January 2019 and admitted to having a .32 caliber pistol in February 2019. The crimes occurred in Hardy and Hampshire Counties.
Wimer faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for heroin charge. He faces at least five years 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 West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
U.S. Attorney encouraged by Martinsburg progressRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Bill Powell is applauding the work of the Martinsburg Police Department and other law enforcement partners on the success of the city’s Drug House Ordinance.
Martinsburg Police Chief Maury Richards recently issued a report showing that over the past three years, the ordinance has been utilized 59 times, resulting in a dramatic decrease in violent crime, drug-related calls, and drug overdoses.
“Job number one for law enforcement is the protection of our citizens. Martinsburg has made great strides in this regard. Violence and other crimes often go hand in hand with drug operations. We must remain constantly vigilant for those who seek to have our neighborhoods made part of their illegal activities. This is especially true for landlords who have the ability to identify those who pose a danger to us and our children. We are proud of our partnership with Chief Richards and the law enforcement community to rid our communities of “drug houses,” said Powell.
Earlier this year, the U.S. Attorney’s office offered further support of this ordinance, stating that landlords with multiple citations under the drug house ordinance could face federal charges. Landlords who continue to allow drugs on their rental properties could face criminal prosecution, as well as federal seizure of the house or apartment building.
Berkeley County has the highest number of drug overdoses in the Northern District of West Virginia.