Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Pennsylvania man admits to role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Armand Taylor, of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, has admitted to his role in a drug distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Taylor, also known as “Scrap,” age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Taylor admitted to selling heroin in June 2017 in Harrison County.
Taylor 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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force and the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.Wetzel County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Wesley A. Ebbert, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, has admitted to selling drugs near a playground, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ebbert, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Ebbert admitted to selling methamphetamine near Bruce Park playground in Wetzel County in May 2019.
Ebbert faces 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Marshall County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua R. Sipe, of Moundsville, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing cocaine, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Sipe, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine.” Sipe admitted to having cocaine in March 2019 in Marshall County.
Sipe 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Marshall County 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 – Jansen V. Carr, of Ranson, West Virginia, has admitted to selling cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Carr, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Carr admitted to selling cocaine base for $250 in August 2018 in Berkeley County.
Carr 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.
Harrison County man sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jack F. Gibbins, III, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Gibbins, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine - Aiding and Abetting” in May 2019. Gibbins admitted to distributing methamphetamine in March 2018 in Harrison County.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.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Harrison County man sentenced for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Weaver, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months incarceration for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Weaver, age 34, pled guilty to “Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location” in March 2019. Weaver admitted to selling methamphetamine near Washington Irving Middle School in Harrison County in October 2017.
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 men admit to firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – DeRon Parrish and Andre Parrish, both of Morgantown, West Virginia, have admitted to firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
DeRon, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm as Convicted Felon.” DeRon, a convicted felon, admitted to having three shotguns in November 2018 in Monongalia County. Andre, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm as Drug User.” Andre, who is prohibited from having a firearm, admitted to having three 12-guage shotguns and a pistol in Monongalia County in November 2018.
DeRon and Andre each face 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 Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Morgantown Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Lewis County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA –Dustin Lee Watson, of Roanoke, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 13 months incarceration for a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Watson, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in May 2019. Watson, having previously been convicted of a felony and domestic violence, admitted to having a .380 caliber pistol in October 2017 in Upshur 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 Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia State Police; and the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Wetzel County man admits to operating a drug houseRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – David M. Metz, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, has admitted to maintaining a house to sell drugs, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Metz, age 44, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Maintaining of a Drug-Involved Premises.” Metz admitted to having a house on Veteran’s Highway in New Martinsville for the purpose of distributing and using methamphetamine from July 2018 to June 2019.
Metz faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Upshur County residents indicted on drug and counterfeit chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Garry William Moran, II, and Johnna Dee Courtney, both of Buckhannon, West Virginia, were indicted today by a federal grand jury on methamphetamine and counterfeit charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Moran, age 39, and Courtney, age 38, were each indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Counterfeiting,” and one count of “Possession of Counterfeit Obligations.” Moran and Courtney are accused of distributing more than five grams of “crystal” methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” in May 2019 in Upshur County. They are also accused of making counterfeit money and having 95 counterfeit $100 bills in their possession.
Moran and Courtney each face at least five years and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the drug counts, and each face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the counterfeit 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Lakes Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force and the United States Secret Service 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 – Tyler Oliver, of St. Louisville, Ohio, has admitted to a drug distribution charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Oliver, age 33, 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”).” Oliver admitted to working with another to distribute “U47700,” a synthetic opioid, from June 2016 to December 2016 in Ohio County and elsewhere.
Oliver 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.
Ohio County man sentenced for escapeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Garrett Michael Carrigan, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for escaping federal custody, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Carrigan, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Escape from Constructive Custody” in September 2019. Carrigan, who was incarcerated for a previous child pornography case in the Northern District of West Virginia, escaped when traveling from a federal institution to a residential reentry center in Clarksburg in February 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Monongalia County woman sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Bonnie Jo Korzun, of Granville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 77 months incarceration for her involvement in a drug distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Korzun, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin” in April 2019. Korzun admitted to selling heroin in Monongalia County in May 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.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Illegal Alien indicted on reentry chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jose Catarino Feregrino-Resendez, a citizen of Mexico, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for an immigration violation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Feregrino-Resendez, age 49, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Feregrino-Resendez is accused of reentering the country illegally after be removed once before. The crime allegedly occurred in April 2019 in Harrison County.
Feregrino-Resendez faces up to two 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 Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the FBI investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Randolph County man admits to methamphetamine distribution and firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph William Howell, Jr., of Beverly, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine and firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Howell, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possess Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Crime.” Howell admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine from December 2017 to July 2018 in Randolph County and elsewhere. He also admitted to having a .34 Colt caliber revolver during the drug crime.
Howell faces at least five years and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the conspiracy charge and 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 Randolph County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Mineral County woman admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Samantha Jo Guinn, of Keyser, West Virginia, has admitted to a methamphetamine distribution charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Guinn, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Guinn admitted to having more than 50 grams of “crystal” methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” in January 2019 n Grant County.
Guinn faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man sentenced for role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Taylor Espinoza, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, was sentenced to 87 months incarceration for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Espinoza, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in April 2019. Espinoza admitted to having methamphetamine in August 2018 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.
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.
Pennsylvania woman sentenced for role in heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jalisa L. Hawkins, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 39 months and 20 days incarceration for her role in a heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hawkins, also known as “Ashley,” age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin” and one count of “Distribution of Heroin in Proximity of a Protected Location” in June 2019. Hawkins admitted to distributing heroin, sometimes near Emmanuel Christian School in Clarksburg, from January 2016 to May 2016 in Harrison County and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Harrison County man sentenced after he admits to sex offender chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Scotty Lee Morris, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration after he admitted to failing to update his sex offender registration, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Morris, age 48, pled guilty today to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration.” Morris failed to update his sex offender registration in October 2018 in Harrison County.
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 Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Four admit to roles in oxycodone distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three Detroit, Michigan residents and one West Virginia woman have admitted to their roles in a drug distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Konshawntas Boyd, age 39, of Detroit, pled guilty to one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises.” Boyd, a nurse practitioner, admitted that she had an apartment located in Barrington North Apartments in Morgantown, West Virginia, for the purpose of distributing oxycodone from September 2016 to March 2017.
Devante Maddox, age 27, and Michael Wesley, also known as “Black” and “Big Flea,” age 47, each pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” Maddox and Wesley admitted to selling oxycodone in January 2017 in Monongalia County.
Tiffany Edwards, age 37, of Westover, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Money Laundering Conspiracy.” Edwards admitted to handling financial transactions that involved money made from the distribution of oxycodone from the summer of 2013 to June 2017 in Monongalia County and elsewhere.
Maddox and Wesley each face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Boyd and Edwards each face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, led the investigation. The Task Force consists of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, Morgantown Police Department, the Star City Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia University Police Department, the Granville Police Department, and the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
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 Michael John Aloi presided.
Detroit man admits to his involvement in an oxycodone distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Terry Thomas, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to multiple charges involving an oxycodone distribution operation that spanned two states and four North Central West Virginia counties, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Thomas, also known as “Top,” age 47, pled guilty to one count of “ Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone,” one count of “Money Laundering Conspiracy,” 19 counts of “Distribution of Oxycodone,” 11 counts of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Oxycodone,” and one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Thomas, the ringleader of the operation, worked with his co-conspirators to distribute more than 500,000 oxycodone pills in Monongalia County and elsewhere for four years, from the summer of 2013 to June 2017.
“Our prosecution team and law enforcement partners have done incredible work on this investigation. Detroit and other locations outside of West Virginia have long been suppliers of pain and suffering , through their illegal drug operations. We will continue to have zero tolerance for these operations and aggressively dismantle and destroy them. Dozens of people are now paying for their activities with long prison sentences. Job well done,” said Powell.
Thomas faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each of the drug charges and faces up to 20 years incarceration and a $500,000 fine for the money laundering charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, led the investigation. The Task Force consists of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, Morgantown Police Department, the Star City Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia University Police Department, the Granville Police Department, and the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Of the 34 indicted in this case, 33 have entered guilty pleas. Twenty-five defendants have been sentenced to a combined 580 months incarceration.
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 Michael John presided.
Ohio woman admits to using juvenile to sell methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Alicia J. Evans, of Akron, Ohio, has admitted to a drug distribution charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Evans, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Using a Juvenile to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Evans admitted to using a minor to sell methamphetamine in August 2018 in Marshall County.
Evans faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to 21,000,000. 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 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.
Harrison County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jamie Allen Butcher, of Shinnston, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Butcher, age 48, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” Butcher admitted to having a stolen .45 caliber pistol in June 2018 in Lewis County.
Butcher 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Columbus man admits to role in cocaine and heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Martenez Strong-Edmondson, Jr., of Columbus, Ohio, has admitted to his role in a cocaine and heroin distribution operation that spanned two states, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Strong-Edmondson, also known as “Bo,” age 21, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base and Cocaine within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” He admitted to distributing cocaine and cocaine base near Pulaski Playground in September 2018 in Ohio County.
Strong-Edmondson is facing no less than one year 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.
The investigation was led by the Ohio County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force is comprised of the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department. Those assisting in the arrests are the United States Marshal Service; Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Martins Ferry, Ohio Police Department; and the Columbus, Ohio Police Department.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Clarksburg woman admits to her role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michelle Elaine Queen, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in a drug distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Queen, age 48, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Queen admitted to selling heroin in January 2017 in Harrison County.
Queen 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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
U.S. Attorney Bill Powell Announces Progress in Making our Communities Safer through Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - Two years ago, the Department of Justice announced the revitalization and enhancement of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the department’s violent crime reduction strategy. 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.
Throughout the past two years, we have partnered with all levels of law enforcement, local organizations, and members of the community to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. According to FBI’s Uniform Crime Report released this week, the violent crime rate decreased for the second consecutive year, down 3.9 percent from the 2017 numbers.
“The revitalized Project Safe Neighborhoods program is a major success,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “It packs a powerful punch by combining advanced data with local leadership, further reducing violence in communities across the country and improving overall public safety. U.S. Attorneys continue to focus their enforcement efforts against the most violent criminals and work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal police. The Justice Department’s relationships across the board have never been stronger.”
“PSN is a proven success. When federal, state and local partners focus on the worst offenders, you get results which have a dramatic effect on our communities. We will continue to focus on the identified “alpha” criminals who prey on our citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Powell, Northern District of West Virginia.
As we celebrate the two-year anniversary of the revitalized PSN program, here are some of the highlights of our PSN actions over the past year:
Enforcement Actions
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of West Virginia works closely with local, county, and federal law enforcement partners to ensure our communities are safe by keeping firearms out of criminals’ hands and prosecuting violent offenders to the fullest extent of the law.
In March 2019, Rocky Idleman was sentenced to life incarceration for firearms and drug distribution charges. Idleman had a lengthy criminal history and was a known violent offender. Read more here: Idleman sentencing
Christopher Lee Yates of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced in August 2019 to 14 years incarceration for stealing thousands of firearms parts, firearms, and ammunition from an ATF facility in Martinsburg. Learn more about his case here: Yates case
In September 2019, Lamar Perdue was sentenced to more than 16 years for drug trafficking and firearms possession. Perdue traveled to West Virginia from his home in Detroit, Michigan to prey on the residents of Marion County. Read more about his case here: Perdue sentencing
Community Partnerships
The Northern District of West Virginia has a strong reentry initiative, offering its reentry simulation to state and federal prisons, community members, and service organizations. The Reentry efforts also extend to offering resource fairs, job fairs, and education to those recently released from prison or currently incarcerated.
The Reentry efforts are supported by organizations in the community with a common mission, such as the YWCA in Wheeling, Catholic Charities of West Virginia, The West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and Second Chance Technologies, to name a few.
Improvements to Community Safety
For the second consecutive year, the estimated number of violent crimes in the nation decreased when compared with the previous year’s statistics, according to FBI figures released today. In 2018, the number of violent crimes was down 3.3 percent from the 2017 number.
The 2018 statistics also show the estimated rate of violent crime was 368.9 offenses per 100,000 inhabitants. The violent crime rate fell 3.9 percent when compared with the 2017 rate.
These enforcement actions and partnerships are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Harrison County man sentenced to 10 years for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Koch, of Anmore, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 121 months incarceration for methamphetamine distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Koch, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Koch admitted to selling methamphetamine in August 2018 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. 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.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Doddridge County woman sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kelly Wright-Meyers, of West Union, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 34 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wright-Meyers, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in April 2019. Wright-Meyers admitted to selling methamphetamine in December 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. 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.
Berkeley County man sentenced for illegal firearms saleRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Loren Hoffman, III, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, was sentenced to six months incarceration for a firearms sales violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hoffman, age 52, pled guilty to one count of “Making a False Entry in records by Federal Firearms Dealer” in August 2019. Hoffman sold a .45 ACP caliber Hi-Point rifle and knowingly failed to make an appropriate entry of the sale in his records. The crime took place in October 2018 in Berkeley County.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Attorney General’s Office has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Attorney General announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Ronald Monroe, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Monroe, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” 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.
Monroe 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.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Martinsburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
13 indicted for drug distribution operation in Ohio CountyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Thirteen people from West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania were arrested and charged with multiple drug counts involving the distribution of cocaine base, methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
The men and woman are charged in a 23-count indictment involving a drug conspiracy in Ohio County and elsewhere from September 2018 to June 2019. Those named in the indictment are:
• Duane Green, also known as “Rick,” age 34, of Columbus, Ohio
• Herman Clemons, Jr., age 50, of Wheeling, West Virginia
• Keith Frazier, also known as “KK,” age 43, of Columbus, Ohio
• Charles Cesar Ansley, also known as “Mike,” age 39, of Wheeling, West Virginia
• Benjamin John Woodring, afge 27, of Wheeling, West Virginia
• Brandon Woodring, age 24, of Wheeling, West Virginia
• Albert Lee Brooks, also known as “b,” age 47, of New Castle, Pennsylvania
• Damen Lavel Pollard, also known as “Skills,” age 48, of Wheeling, West Virginia
• Kayla Lallathin, also known as “Cat,” age 28, of Wheeling, West Virginia
• Audie Fry, also known as “Ott,” age 62, of Wheeling, West Virginia
• Mustafa Ali Vaughn, also known as “Moose” and “Fargo,” age 37, of Canal Winchester, Ohio
• Paula Blake, age 43, of Wheeling, West Virginia
• Terri Lea Blankenship, age 54, of Wheeling, West VirginiaThe defendants are accused of selling crack cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl, many times near public housing complex Luau Manor in Wheeling.
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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Inmates at FCI Morgantown sentenced for contrabandRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard Joe Pruitt and John Joseph Kopp, both inmates at FCI Morgantown in Morgantown, West Virginia, were sentenced today for possession of contraband, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pruitt, age 27, and Kopp, age 44, each pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object (Narcotic).” Pruitt and Kopp admitted to having suboxone inside FCI Morgantown in December 2018. Pruitt and Kopp were then each sentenced to 12 months incarceration to be served consecutively to any sentence he is currently serving.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Prisons Special Investigation Services investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Michigan man admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Andrew Thomas, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to a drug distribution charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Thomas, also known as “Bud,” age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” Thomas admitted to selling oxycodone in Monongalia County in September 2015.
Thomas 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, led the investigation. The Task Force consists of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, Morgantown Police Department, the Star City Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia University Police Department, the Granville Police Department, and the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Maryland men admit to fentanyl distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Sven Artez Alston and James Lamont Brinkley, both of Baltimore, Maryland, have admitted to distributing fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Alston, age 30, and Brinkley, age 32, each pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Both men were found in a motel in Spring Mills, West Virginia, in November 2018 with 30 grams of fentanyl, 39 grams of a synthetic opiate known as U47700, and a cutting agent, as well as digital scales and plastic baggies. The amount of fentanyl seized was enough to kill more than 10,000 people. Other drugs were also found in the room, along with $9,600 in cash.
Alston and Brinkley each face 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.
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. Attorneys Timothy D. Helman and Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The FBI; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; the Martinsburg Police Department; the Charles Town Police Department; and the Ranson Police Department investigated. The United States Marshals assisted.
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.Upshur County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Floyd Edward Roby, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months incarceration for a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Roby, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in May 2019. Roby, having previously been convicted of a felony, admitted to having a 9mm pistol in January 2019 in Upshur 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 Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Tyler County man facing firearms chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dale Robert Barnhart, of Alma, West Virginia, was indicted today on firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Barnhart, age 56, was indicted on two counts of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Barnhart, who is prohibited from having a firearm because of prior convictions, is accused of having two shotguns, a rifle, a .380 derringer, and multiple rounds of ammunition in August 2019 in Tyler County.
Barnhart 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.
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 investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Randolph County man sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jonathan Allen Mowery, of Harman, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 70 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Mowery, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in April 2019. Mowery admitted to distributing methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” in March 2017 in Randolph County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives and the Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force 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. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
New York man accused of taking West Virginia teen across state lines for sexRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Max Paul Levine, of Bronx, New York, was indicted today for interstate transport of a minor for sex, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Levine, also known as “James Connely” and “Noxx Nocten,” age 34, was indicted on one count of “Transportation of a Minor Across State Lines for Sexual Purposes.” Levine is accused of transporting a 15-yer-old West Virginia girl from her Harrison County home to his residence in Bronx, New York to engage in sexual activity in June 2019.
Levine faces at least 10 years and up to life 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 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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bridgeport Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Inmate indicted for assaultRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Elijah Jeremiah Smith, an inmate at FCI Hazleton, was indicted today for allegedly assaulting a correctional officer while being housed at FCI Gilmer, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Smith, age 23, was indicted on one count of “Assault of a Correctional Officer Resulting in Bodily Injury.” Smith is accused of assaulting a correctional officer employed by the Bureau of Prisons at FCI Gilmer in Gilmer County in September 2019.
Smith 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Prisons investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Grant County woman sentenced for mail fraudRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Sandra Mae Evans, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years probation for mail fraud, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Evans, age 62, pled guilty to one count of “Mail Fraud” in May 2019. Evans admitted to opening an IRA account at Pendleton Community Bank’s Petersburg, West Virginia, branch in July 2018. A check in the amount of $82,170.50 was mailed from St. Louis, Missouri to Pendleton Community Bank to be deposited into Evan’s IRA account. Evans then deposited the check in August 2018, knowing the check was fraudulent. Evans admits to then requesting and successfully collecting withdrawals from the fraudulent check totaling more than $42,000. Evans then sent $18,000 cash to someone in Florida and $11,000 cash to someone in Utah.Evans was ordered to pay $35,808.05 in restitution to the Pendleton Community Bank. The amount represents the unrecovered amount of withdrawals made against the fraudulent check.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Grant County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Carmen Liseno, of Cabins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 92 months incarceration for a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Liseno, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in May 2019. Liseno, having been previously convicted of two felonies, admitted to having a .40 caliber pistol in December 2017 in Grant 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 Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Grant County Sheriff’s Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Belmont County, Ohio man indicted on fentanyl chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Nathan Parker, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, was indicted today on a fentanyl distribution charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Parker, age 39, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” Parker is accused of selling fentanyl near Madison Elementary School in July 2019 in Ohio County.
Smith faces at least one year 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 Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley 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.
Wetzel County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Lee Lemasters, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced 15 months for a firearms charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lemasters, age 56, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in July 2019. Lemasters, who is prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a 9mm caliber pistol and 16 rounds of ammunition in Wetzel County in October 2018.
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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, West Virginia State Police, and the Paden City Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Manager of Middletown Mall admits to bankruptcy and tax fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dietrich S. Fansler, manager of Pin Oak Properties, has admitted to bankruptcy fraud and tax fraud, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Fansler, of Morgantown, West Virginia, is the managing member of Pin Oak Properties, LLC, which operated Middletown Mall in Fairmont. Fansler, age 59, pled guilty to one count of “Fraudulent Concealment of Bankruptcy Estate Assets” and one count of “Willful Failure to Pay Over Tax.”
Fansler filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in June 2017. Between June 2017 and January 2018, Fansler collected rent from the tenants of the mall and was required to deposit that money into the debtor-in-possession account of Pin Oak Properties. Fansler admitted to using some of that collected rent, approximately $225,000, for expenses unrelated to Pin Oak Properties and concealing it from the creditors of the bankruptcy estate.
Fansler also admitted to failing to pay the withheld income taxes from employees of Pin Oak Properties and another one of his companies, Villa Rentals, Inc. He admits, too, that he did not pay personal income taxes for years 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2013. The total loss to the IRS is more than $880,000.
As a part of the plea, Fansler agrees to pay $225,000 in restitution to the bankruptcy trustee, as well as $880,446.82 in restitution to the IRS.
Fansler faces up to five 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 Jarod J. Douglas is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Berkeley County man admits to role in cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shavon Craig, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Craig, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Craig admitted to distributing cocaine base in Berkeley County in December 2018.
Craig is facing 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.
Virginia man admits to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Alan Williams, of Hillsboro, West Virginia, has admitted to producing child pornography, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Williams, age 54, pled guilty to one count of “Production of Child Pornography by Person Having Custody or Control.” Williams admitted to permitted a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct to produce child pornography to be shared in February 2019 in Jefferson County.
Williams 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 Kimberley D. Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security Investigations investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County man admits to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Alan Himelright, of Inwood, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing child pornography, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Himelright, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Child Pornography.” Himelright admitted to distributing child pornography in October 2018 in Berkeley County.
Himelright 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 West Virginia State Police and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Mineral County man sentenced to 14 years for role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Corey Alt, of Elk Garden, West Virginia, was sentenced to 168 months incarceration for his involvement in a drug distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Alt, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Alt admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine from August 2017 to June 2018 in Mineral, Hardy, and Hampshire Counties and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, The West Virginia State Police, and the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force 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.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Illegal Alien sentenced for reentry chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Omar Antonio Murillo-Bonilla, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced to time served for an immigration violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Murillo-Bonilla, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Reentry of Removed Aliens” earlier this month. Murillo-Bonilla admitted to reentering the country illegally after be removed twice before. The crime allegedly occurred in August 2019 in Jefferson County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey A. Finucane prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Harrison County woman sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Teressa Hall, of Bristol, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 36 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hall, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense” in February 2019. Hall admitted to having a .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol with her when in possession of methamphetamine in December 2017 in Harrison 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 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.