Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Hardy County man sentenced for role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – John Wayne Crites, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years probation and ordered to pay more than $217,000 for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Crites, age 48, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” in July 2017. Crites admitted to working with others to distribute more than 50 grams of crystal meth in Grant County between September 2014 and December 2016.
The judge ordered that Crites pay $217,600, and Crites must forfeit an orange Honda Foreman.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Randolph County man sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeffrey Lynn Woods, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 121 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Woods, age 58, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More than 5 Grams of Methamphetamine” in January 2019. He admitted to conspiring with others to distribute more than five grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” and “ice,” from the fall of 2016 to July 2018 in Randolph County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force; and the Elkins 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. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Ohio County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Derek Schultz, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Schultz, age 53, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of N.F.A. Firearm.” Schultz admitted to having an unregistered .30 caliber machine gun in January 2019 in Ohio County.
Schultz 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 and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Michigan man sentenced to 10 years for drug distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Christopher Morgan, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 120 months incarceration for his role in a heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine distribution operation in Randolph County, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Morgan, also known as “Deon” and “D,” age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, Cocaine Base, and Methamphetamine” in April 2019. Morgan admitted to working with others to distribute heroin, “crack” cocaine, and methamphetamine in Randolph County from March 2016 to March 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and 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 John Preston Bailey presided.
Randolph County woman sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Gina Carol McCauley, of Beverly, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months incarceration for her role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
McCauley, age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “False Statement in Connection with the Acquisition of a Firearm” in April 2019. McCauley admitted to conspiring with another to distribute methamphetamine in Randolph County from March to November of 2018. McCauley also admitted to lying to a firearms dealer when purchasing a .380 caliber pistol and 49 rounds of .380 caliber ammunition.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). 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.
Ohio County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Xavier C. Coyle, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Coyle, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in May 2019. Coyle, having previously been convicted of a felony, admitted to having 9mm pistol in December 2019 in Marshall 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 and the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Elkins business owner admits to tax fraudRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Rocky A. Tingler, of Elkins, West Virginia, has admitted to tax fraud, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Tingler, age 54, owner of McWilliams Building & Construction in Elkins, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement on Personal Tax Return” and one count of “Failure to Pay Over Employment Taxes.” Tingler admitted to understating the gross receipts or sales on his 2015 individual tax return by more than $988,000. He also admitted to collecting $790 in federal income tax from his employees at the construction business when the amount should have been $25,706 during the third quarter of 2014.
Tingler faces up to three years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the false statement charge and faces up to five years incarceration and fine of up to $250,000 for the failure to pay charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Maryland man admits to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Paul Glen Hamilton, Jr., of Bowie, Maryland and Melbourne, Florida, has admitted to a child pornography charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hamilton, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Hamilton admitted to having child pornography that was transported by computer in September 2018 in Berkeley County.
Hamilton 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.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Marshall County man sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles J. Chambers, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 33 months incarceration for drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Chambers, age 44, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in February 2019. Chambers admitted to selling methamphetamine in July 2018 in Marshall County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Hancock County man admits to drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Lavel L. Hicks, of Weirton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months for drug and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hicks, age 44, pled guilty to two counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base,” four counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Hydrochloride,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in May 2019. Hicks admitted to distributing the drugs in November and December 2017 and December 2018 in Brook and Hancock Counties. Hicks, having previously been convicted or murder in the second degree in Brooke County Circuit Court, also possessed a 9mm pistol.
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 Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Grant County residents admit to fentanyl and methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Melanie Lyn Outen, Ted Alexander Voss, and Michael Dean Smith, all of Petersburg, West Virginia, have admitted to their roles in a fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Outen, age 47, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Outen admitted to distributing more than 64 grams of fentanyl and more than 69 grams of 100% pure methamphetamine from January to June 2019 in Grant County and elsewhere.
Voss, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Voss, age 29, admitted to distributing more than 64 grams of fentanyl and more than 69 grams of 100% pure methamphetamine from January to June 2019 in Grant County and elsewhere.
Smith, age 49, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Smith admitted to distributing more than 69 grams of 100% pure methamphetamine in May 2019 in Berkeley County.
Outen and Voss each face at least five years and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000. Smith 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.
These charges are the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, West Virginia State Police, and the Charles Town Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Maryland man indicted for bank robberyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven L. Silverman, of Thurmont, Maryland, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for bank robbery, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Silverman, age 49, is charged with one count of “Bank Robbery.” Silverman is accused of 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Delaware man indicted on drug chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Durrion Joshua Morrison, of Wilmington, Delaware, was indicted by a federal grand jury today on cocaine charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Johnson, also known as “Nephew,” age 30, is charged with two counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Johnson is accused of selling cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and possessing more than 28 grams of cocaine base in July 2016 in Berkeley County.
Johnson faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each distribution count. He faces not less than five years and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the aiding and abetting 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle 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.
Berkeley County woman indicted on firearms chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cassandra Elaine Riggs, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury today on firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Riggs, age 30, is charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of Ammunition.” Riggs, who is prohibited from having a firearm or ammunition because of previous felony convictions, is accused of having a .223 caliber semi-automatic rifle and 20 rounds of .223 caliber ammunition in October 2018 in Berkeley County.
Riggs 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the United States Probation Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Wetzel County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Lee Lemasters, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lemasters, age 55, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” 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.
Lemasters is facing 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, West Virginia State Police, and the Paden City Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Philadelphia man sentenced for role in a methamphetamine distribution operation in Monongalia CountyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Terry Willie Trapp, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 235 months incarceration for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Trapp, age 49, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances” in February 2019. Trapp admitted to participating in a drug distribution operation in October 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 Morgantown Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Michigan man and Monongalia County man sentenced for their roles in a drug distribution operation in Monongalia CountyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men were sentenced today for their involvement in a heroin, oxycodone, and cocaine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Daron Buford, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration. Buford, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin” in March 2019. Buford admitted to selling heroin in July 2017 in Monongalia County.Brian Kyle, of Maidsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 27 months incarceration. Kyle, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility” in March 2019. Kyle admitted to using a phone to further a drug distribution operation in April 2018 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the cases 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.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Harrison County man sentenced for role in methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Nathan Crites, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Crites, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in February 2019. Crites admitted to selling methamphetamine in April 2018 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.
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.
Buckhannon woman sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ann Marie Stankus, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 42 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Stankus, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in February 2019. Stankus admitted to working with another to distribute methamphetamine in December 2017 in Upshur 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.
Jefferson County man indicted on heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Enrico Fionn Hernandez, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, appeared today in federal court on drug charges after being indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg on May 21, 2019 , United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hernandez, also known as “Rico,” age 46, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Cocaine,” one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl,” one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Distribution of Heroin Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin and Fentanyl,” one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base,” two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl,” and two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride.”
Hernandez is accused of selling heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine in June 2017 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties. The government is seeking the forfeiture of $647 seized from Hernandez during a traffic stop and $4,900 seized from Hernandez’s residence.
Hernandez faces at least one and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for each of the distribution near a protected location charges, and up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each of the other 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Berkeley County woman admits to role in cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Courtney Guess, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in a cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Guess, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Guess admitted to selling heroin in Berkeley County in May 2018.
Guess 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 cases 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.
Berkeley County woman admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Mary Virginia Cook, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Cook, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting a False Statement During Purchase of Firearms.” Cook admitted to making false statements when purchasing a .40 caliber pistol and a 9mm pistol in Berkeley County in February 2018.
Cook is facing 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 Lara K. Omps-Botteicher 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.
Wheeling man sentenced for distributing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Randy Lee Donahue, Jr., of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Donahue, age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” in May 2019. Donahue admitted to distributing methamphetamine from an apartment located at 97 16th Street in Wheeling, within 1,000 feet of Wheeling Central Catholic High School in November 2018.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia State Police; and the Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Monongalia County man indicted on cocaine and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Derrick Morris, of Morgantown, West Virginia, appeared today in federal court on drug and firearms charges after being indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on July 9, 2019 , United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Morris, age 32, is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base,” one count of “Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Morris is accused of distributing “crack” cocaine in Monongalia County in November 2018. Morris, who is prohibited from having a firearm because of a previous conviction, is also accused of having a .22 caliber rifle and a .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol during the alleged drug offense.
Morris faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the drug offense, at least five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for firearm during a dug crime, and up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the unlawful possession crime. 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 and the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Monongalia County man indicted for sex offender registry violationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Earnest Parrie Dille, of Morgantown, West Virginia, appeared in federal court today after being indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on July 9, 2019 for failing to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Dille, age 63, is charged with one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration.” Dille, a person required to register as a sex offender, is accused of traveling from Idaho to West Virginia without updating his sex offender registration from January 2018 to April 2019.
Dille 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 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 is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Michigan man sentenced for role in a drug distribution operation in Monongalia CountyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Darius Dunbar, of Southfield, Michigan, was sentenced today to six months incarceration for his involvement in a heroin, oxycodone, and cocaine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Dunbar, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin” in March 2019. Dunbar admitted to selling heroin in July 2017 in Monongalia County.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.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Wheeling woman admits to role in cocaine and heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Tiffany Sells, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in a cocaine and heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Sells, age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” Sells admitted to selling cocaine near Jensen Playground on Wheeling Island in July 2018.
Sells is facing no less than 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 Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. 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.
Martinsburg man admits to drug traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Levar Glenwood Crawford, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Crawford, age 42, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Crawford admitted to working with another to distribute cocaine base in November 2018 in Berkeley County.
Crawford is facing not less than five and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, 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 admits to selling methamphetamineRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Robert Lyons, of Salem, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine near a playground, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lyons, age 46, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Lyons admitted to selling methamphetamine near Jackson Park playground in Harrison County in February 2017.
Lyons is facing 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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Berkeley County man admits to drug traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony Wayne Harrison, II, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing heroin, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Harrison, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Harrison admitted to selling heroin in Berkeley County in July 2018.
Harrison 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 Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Two Inmates at FCI Morgantown indicted 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 indicted by a federal grand jury today for possession of contraband, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pruitt, age 26, and Kopp, age 44, are each charged with one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object (Narcotic),” one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object (Cellular Telephone),” and one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object (Alcohol).” Pruitt and Kopp are accused of having suboxone, alcohol, and two cell phones inside FCI Morgantown in December 2018.
Pruitt and Kopp each face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the narcotics count and face up to one year incarceration and a fine of up to $200,000 for each of the alcohol and cell phone 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 Bureau of Prisons Special Investigation Services investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Martinsburg man admits to drug traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tywonne Crawford, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing cocaine and heroin, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Crawford, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Cocaine Base.” Crawford admitted to conspiring with others to distribute heroin and cocaine base from October to November 2018 in Berkeley County.
Crawford 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 Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, 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 firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jesse Pack, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pack, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in March 2019. Pack, an unlawful user of a firearm, admitted to having a .9mm pistol in Harrison County in June 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 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 woman indicted for firearms violationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Teresa Miller, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for a firearms violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Miller, age 45, is charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Miller, having previously been convicted of a drug crime, is prohibited from having a firearm. Miller is accused of having a .380 caliber pistol and a .45 caliber pistol in July 2018 in Monongalia County.
Miller 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Morgantown Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County man indicted for firearms violationsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Given, Jr., of Lost Creek, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for firearms violations, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Given, age 47, is charged with one count of “Possession of an Unlawful Firearm” and one count of “Possession of Machinegun.” Given is accused of knowingly having a .223 caliber rifle with a shortened barrel that wasn’t registered to him. He is also accused of having a machine gun. Both crimes are alleged to have occurred in February 2019 in Harrison County.
Given 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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Clarksburg Police Department, and the Bridgeport Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Doddridge County man indicted for sex offender registry violationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tyler Patrick Pietschmann, of Greenwood, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for failing to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pietschmann, age 21, is charged with one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration.” Pietschmann, a person required to register as a sex offender, is accused of traveling from Pennsylvania to West Virginia without updating his sex offender registration from December 2018 to February 2019.
Pietschamnn 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 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 is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Columbus men admit to roles in cocaine and heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men have admitted to their roles in a cocaine and heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Michael L. Forrest, Jr., also known as “Flip,” of Columbus, Ohio, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” Forrest, age 28, admitted to selling cocaine near the Pulaski Playground in Ohio County in August 2018.
Brandon Suel, of Columbus, Ohio, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” Suel, age 31, admitted to selling cocaine near Jensen Playground on Wheeling Island in May 2018.
Forrest and Suel are each facing no less than 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 Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. 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.
Gilmer Inmate admits to indecent exposureRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Damon Johnson, an inmate at Federal Correction Institution Gilmer in Glenville, West Virginia, has admitted to indecent exposure, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Johnson, age 42, pled guilty to one count of “Indecent Exposure.” Johnson admitted to exposing himself to staff at FCI Gilmer in March 2019.
Johnson was sentenced to 90 days incarceration for the crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. FCI Gilmer Special Investigative Services 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 – Kyuten J. Smith, of Columbus, Ohio, has admitted to his role in a cocaine and heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Smith, also known as “Mitch,” pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Kyuten, age 28, admitted to distributing cocaine base in Ohio County in September 2018.
Smith is facing no less than five 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 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.
Ohio County woman admits to methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –Tiffany Markle, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Markle, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Markle admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Marshall and Ohio Counties from July 2018 to February 2019. The government is also seeking the forfeiture of the Markles’ residence at 36 Fernwood Avenue in Wheeling.
Markle 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Hazelton Inmate admits to indecent exposureRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marco Charles Gilbert, an inmate at Federal Correction Institution Hazelton in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, has admitted to indecent exposure, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Gilbert, age 33, pled guilty to two counts of “Indecent Exposure.” Gilbert admitted to exposing himself to staff at FCI Hazelton in December 2018 and January 2019.
Gilbert was sentenced to 180 days incarceration for the crimes.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. FCI Hazelton Special Investigative Services investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Barbour County woman admits to role methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Destiny Hope Robinson, of Philippi, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Robinson, age 21, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Robinson admitted to distributing more than five grams of methamphetamine in Randolph County from December 2017 to July 2018.
Robinson is facing no less than five and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force and the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County woman sentenced for role in methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Stormetta Hawkins, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for her role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hawkins, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Hawkins admitted to selling methamphetamine in July 2018 in Harrison County.Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting 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.
Wheeling man and Columbus man admit to role in cocaine and heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men have admitted to their roles in a cocaine and heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Andre Hager, also known as Andyman, of Wheeling, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base and Heroin.” Hager, age 47, admitted to distributing cocaine and heroin, in Ohio County from April 2018 to September 2018.
Joshua Ford, also known as “Fatboy,” of Columbus, Ohio, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” Ford, age 29, admitted to selling cocaine near Jensen Playground on Wheeling Island in May 2018.
Hager and Ford are each facing no less than 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 Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. 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.
Grant and Hardy County residents indicted for fentanyl distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Five people were indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Elkins on June 18, 2019 for fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Melanie Lyn Outen, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Outen, age 47, is accused of distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl and a detectable amount of methamphetamine in Jefferson County in April 2019.
Ted Alexander Voss, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Voss, age 29, is accused of distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl in April 2019 in Jefferson County and distributing methamphetamine in May 2019 in Berkeley County.
Dennis James Miller, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” two counts of “Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Miller, age 43, is accused of distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl in April 2019 in Jefferson County, distributing methamphetamine in April and May 2019 in Grant and Berkeley Counties, and distributing heroin in April and May 2019 in Grant County.
Michael Dean Smith, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Smith, age 49, is accused of distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl in April 2019 in Jefferson County and distributing methamphetamine in May 2019 in Berkeley County.
Jared Judy, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Judy, age 29, is accused of distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl in April 2019 in Jefferson County and distributing methamphetamine in May 2019 in Berkeley County.Each defendant faces at least five years and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the conspiracy count. Outen and Voss also face at least five years and up to 40 years incarceration for the aiding and abetting count. Miller, Smith, and Judy face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each distribution 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 Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Charles Town Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Lewis County man sentenced for role in a methamphetamine distribution operation in Monongalia CountyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Douglas Charles Knicely, of Jane Lew, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months incarceration for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Knicely, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Knicely admitted to participating in a drug distribution operation in October 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 Morgantown Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Buckhannon man and Clarksburg man sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Langbein, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, and Ramiro Pimentel, Jr., of Clarksburg, West Virginia, were sentenced today for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Langbein, age 28, was sentenced to 115 months incarceration. Langbein pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in March 2019. He admitted to distributing methamphetamine in March 2018 in Harrison County.Pimentel, age 32, was sentenced to 78 months incarceration. Pimentel pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in February 2019. He admitted to selling methamphetamine in May 2017 in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 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.
Baltimore man sentenced for role in methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin Jackson, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced today to 48 months incarceration for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jackson, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Jackson admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 2017 in Harrison County.Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 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.
Pennsylvania woman admits to role in heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jalisa L. Hawkins, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, has admitted to her role in a heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hawkins, also known as “Ashley,” age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin” and one count of “Distribution of Heroin in Proximity of a Protected Location.” Hawkins admitted to distributing heroin, sometimes near Emmanuel Christian School in Clarksburg, from January 2016 to May 2016 in Harrison County and elsewhere.
Hawkins is facing up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the conspiracy count, and faces not less than one year and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for the distribution 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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting 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 woman sentenced for role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Faith Martin, of Shinnston, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 41 months incarceration for her involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Martin, age 20, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Martin admitted to selling methamphetamine in Harrison County in August 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.
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