Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Harrison County man admits to role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Russell Clark, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Clark, age 64, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises.” Clark admitted to maintaining a residence on Winding Way in Clarksburg for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine in February 2018.
Clark 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 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 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.
Berkeley County woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shannon L. Keiffer, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Keiffer, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Keiffer admitted to selling heroin in July 2018 in Berkeley County.
Keiffer 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 Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the cases 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.
Randolph County residents admit to methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Patsy Meredith DeMary, of Beverly, West Virginia, and Scott Jackson Hamrick, of Elkins, West Virginia, have admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
DeMary, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.”
Hamrick, also known as “Basic,” age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possess a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.”
DeMary and Hamrick admitted to working with one another to distribute methamphetamine in Randolph County in 2017.Hamrick also admitted to having a firearm during a drug trafficking crime in June 2017.
DeMary and Hamrick each face at least five years and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the distribution charge. Hamrick also faces at least five years incarceration and fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the cases 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. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Randolph County man admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jonathan Allen Mowery, of Harman, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Mowery, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Mowery admitted to distributing methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” in March 2017 in Randolph County.
Mowery 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 D. Warner is prosecuting 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. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio man sentenced for drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Oscar Simmons, Jr., of Dayton, Ohio, was sentenced today to 108 months incarceration for drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Simmons, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in January 2019. Simmons admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Monongalia County in July 2018.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Morgan County man admits to failing to update sex offender registryRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin David Peters, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, has admitted to failing to update his sex offender registry, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Peters, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Register.” Peters, having previously been convicted of possession of child pornography in Berkeley County Circuit Court, admitted to traveling to Florida without updating his sex offender registration as required by law. The crime occurred from June to September 2018.
Peters 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 Jeffrey A. Finucane is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced for lying to federal agentRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Darus Zehrbach, of Westover, West Virginia, was sentenced today to six months incarceration for making a false statement, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Zehrbach, age 72, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement to Federal Agent” in January 2019. In February 2015, Zehrbach received a letter from the Office of Foreign Assets Control, denying his application for a license to export electric scooters to Iran. In June 2016, Zehrbach exported eight electric scooters to the United Arab Emirates, knowing that the scooters would be shipped to Iran. The, in July 2016, the eight electric scooters were shipped from the United Arab Emirates to Iran. Zehrbach admitted to sending a letter to an agent of the United States Department of Commerce stating that a shipment he sent to Iran had originated in China when in fact that shipment originated in the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas and the Department of Justice National Security Division prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Commerce Office of Export Enforcement investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Howard, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 41 months incarceration for his role in a heroin, oxycodone, and cocaine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Howard, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility” in January 2019. Howard admitted to using a phone to distribute and conspire to distribute a controlled substance in April 2018 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 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.
Mineral County man admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Dwayne Cosner, of Elk Garden, West Virginia, has admitted to drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Cosner, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Cosner admitted to distributing methamphetamine in March 2018 in Mineral County.
Cosner 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 Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting 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 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.
Grant County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cody Swick, of Petersburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Swick, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Swick, having been previously convicted of domestic battery, admitted to having a .22 caliber revolver in October 2018 in Grant County.
Swick faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting 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. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Former contract security guard at ATF facility admits to stealing firearmsRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Lee Yates, a former contract security guard at a U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) facility, has admitted to stealing firearms from the government, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Yates, age 52, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearm” and one count of “Theft of Government Property.” Yates admitted to possessing stolen firearms in Berkeley County in February 2019. Yates also admitted to stealing firearms, firearms parts, and ammunition valuing more than $1,000 from the ATF’s National Disposal Branch in Martinsburg, West Virginia.Yates faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey A. Finucane is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Anyone with information regarding the location of these firearms, firearms parts, ammunition and/or persons who unknowingly purchased one or more of these items should contact ATF at 1-888-ATF-TIPS, email [email protected]; through its website at www.atf.gov/contact/atf-tips; or through the ReportIt ® app, www.reportit.com, available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store.
Berkeley County man admits to fentanyl chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Herman Terrell Govan, of Inwood, West Virginia, has admitted to selling fentanyl, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Govan, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl.” Govan admitted to selling fentanyl in January 2018 in Berkeley County.
Govan faces up to 20 years incarceration and a $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case is the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua A. Miller, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in a heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Miller, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine Hydrochloride, and Cocaine Base.” Miller admitted to working with others to distribute heroin, fentanyl and cocaine from May 2018 to January 2019 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties and elsewhere.
Miller faces up to 20 years incarceration and a $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case is the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally.
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.
Two Maryland residents sentenced to a combined 55 years for heroin distribution resulting in deathRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kelvin Johnson, of Baltimore, Maryland and Sykebia Stewart, of Dundalk, Maryland, were sentenced today to a combined 658 months incarceration for heroin distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Johnson, age 26, was sentenced to 365 months incarceration. Stewart, age 25, was sentenced to 293 months incarceration.
“The sentences will not make right what has been done, but send the strong message of our continuing commitment to aggressively prosecute those whose actions cause injury or death,” said Powell.
After a trial in June of 2018, a jury found Johnson and Stewart guilty on all counts. Johnson was found guilty of one count of “Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin Resulting in Death.” Stewart was found guilty of one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin Resulting in Death.” Johnson and Stewart distributed heroin in May 2016 in Berkeley County, resulting in death.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
South Carolina women admit to fentanyl chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Peggy Louise Farrington and Jacqueline Lee Weigland, both of Galivants Ferry, South Carolina, have admitted to drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Farrington, age 54, and Weigland, age 58, each pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” The women admitted to possessing fentanyl in January 2019 in Berkeley County.
Farrington and Weigland each face 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.
These charges are the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Martinsburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Morgantown man admits to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Ontko, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a child pornography charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ontko, age 66, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Ontko admitted to having child pornography from February to April 2018 in Monongalia County.
Ontko 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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Energy Office of Inspector General investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Doddridge County woman and Harrison County woman admit to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kelly Wright-Meyers, of West Union, West Virginia, and Ashley Wagner, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, have admitted to their involvement in methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wright-Meyers, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Wright-Meyers admitted to selling methamphetamine in December 2017 in Harrison County.Wagner, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Wagner admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine from October 2017 to September 2018 in Harrison County and elsewhere.
Wright-Meyers and Wagner each face 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 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. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Pennsylvania man admits to his role in a heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Chad Juan M. Neal, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, has admitted to heroin distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Neal, also known as “CJ,” age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin” and one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Neal admitted to conspiring to distribute heroin in Harrison County, West Virginia and elsewhere from January 2016 to May 2016.
Neal faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio man sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Cornell D. Wallace, of Canton, Ohio, was sentenced today to 77 months incarceration for drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wallace, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in February 2019. Wallace admitted to selling methamphetamine in August 2018 in Marshall County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office; the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office; the Sistersville Police Department; the Paden City Police Department; and the New Martinsville Police Department investigated. The Columbus, Ohio, Police Department Gang Crimes Unit assisted in the case.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Mineral County woman admits to role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brittany Baker, of Elk Garden, West Virginia, has admitted to her involvement in a drug distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Baker, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Baker admitted to distributing methamphetamine in June 2018 in Mineral County.
Baker 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 Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Harrison County woman admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Stormey Angel Lois-Hite, of Anmoore, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lois-Hite, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Transfer of Firearm to Prohibited Person.” Lois-Hite admitted to purchasing a .22 caliber pistol for a convicted felon in January 2018 in Harrison County.
Lois-Hite faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to a firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin Alexander Miske, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Miske, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Miske, having been previously convicted of a felony, is accused of having a .357 magnum revolver in December 2018 in Harrison County.
Miske faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Clarksburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michal John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County surgeon facing drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Dr. Chad Poage, of Morgantown, West Virginia, is facing a drug charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Poage, age 35, is charged in a one-count information with “Obtaining Controlled Substances by Fraud.” Poage is accused of writing prescriptions using other physicians’ DEA registration numbers and initials without authorization, and filling those prescriptions at Morgantown area pharmacies. It is alleged that Poage was filling the prescriptions of acetaminophen-codeine for his own personal use.
Poage faces up to four years’ incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000.00. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner and Department of Justice Trial Attorney Patrick Mott are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
An information is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (Arpo) Strike Force Takedown Results in Charges Against 60 Individuals, Including 53 Medical ProfessionalsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Attorney General William P. Barr and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex M. Azar II, together with multiple law enforcement partners, today announced enforcement actions involving 60 charged defendants across 11 federal districts, including 31 doctors, seven pharmacists, eight nurse practitioners, and seven other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in the illegal prescribing and distributing of opioids and other dangerous narcotics and for health care fraud schemes. In addition, HHS announced today that since June 2018, it has excluded over 2,000 individuals from participation in Medicare, Medicaid and all other Federal health care programs, which includes more than 650 providers excluded for conduct related to opioid diversion and abuse. Since July 2017, DEA has issued 31 immediate suspension orders, 129 orders to show cause, and received 1,386 surrenders for cause nationwide for violations of the Controlled Substances Act.
“The opioid epidemic is the deadliest drug crisis in American history, and Appalachia has suffered the consequences more than perhaps any other region,” Attorney General William P. Barr said. “But the Department of Justice is doing its part to help end this crisis. One of the Department's most promising new initiatives is the Criminal Division's Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid Strike Force, which began its work in December. Just four months later, this team of federal agents and 14 prosecutors has charged 60 defendants for alleged crimes related to millions of prescription opioids. I am grateful to the Criminal Division, their U.S. Attorney partners, and to the members of the strike force for this outstanding work that holds the promise of saving many lives in Appalachian communities.”
“Reducing the illicit supply of opioids is a crucial element of President Trump’s plan to end this public health crisis,” said HHS Secretary Alex Azar. “It is also vital that Americans struggling with addiction have access to treatment and that patients who need pain treatment do not see their care disrupted, which is why federal and local public health authorities have coordinated to ensure these needs are met in the wake of this enforcement operation. The Trump Administration’s law enforcement and public health leaders will continue to work hand in hand to end this crisis that has hit Appalachia hard and steals far too many lives across America every day.”
Attorney General Barr and Secretary Azar were joined in the announcement by Assistant Attorney General Brian Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Robert M. Duncan Jr. for the Eastern District of Kentucky; U.S. Attorney Russell M. Coleman for the Western District of Kentucky; U.S. Attorney Benjamin C. Glassman for the Southern District of Ohio; U.S. Attorney William J. Powell for the Northern District of West Virginia; U.S. Attorney Michael B. Stuart for the Southern District of West Virginia; U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey for the Eastern District of Tennessee; U.S. Attorney Don Cochran for the Middle District of Tennessee; U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee; U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town for the Northern District of Alabama; U.S. Attorney Thomas T. Cullen for the Western District of Virginia; Executive Assistant Director Amy Hess of the FBI’s Criminal, Cyber, Response, and Services Branch; Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Gary L. Cantrell of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Assistant Administrator John J. Martin of the DEA Diversion Control Division, and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Deputy Administrator and Director of the Center for Program Integrity (CPI) Alec Alexander.
In addition to the cases announced today, Attorney General Barr and U.S. Attorney Thomas T. Cullen announced today that the ARPO Strike Force will expand into the Western District of Virginia, making it the tenth ARPO Strike Force district. ARPO is a joint law enforcement effort that brings together the resources and expertise of the Health Care Fraud Unit in the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section (HCF Unit), the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for ten federal districts in six states, as well as law enforcement partners at the FBI, HHS Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). In addition, the operation includes the participation of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, multiple State Medicaid Fraud Control Units, and other federal and state agencies. The mission of the ARPO Strike Force is to identify and investigate health care fraud schemes in the Appalachian region and surrounding areas, and to effectively and efficiently prosecute medical professionals and others involved in the illegal prescription and distribution of opioids.
The charges announced today involve individuals contributing to the opioid epidemic, with a particular focus on medical professionals involved in the unlawful distribution of opioids and other prescription narcotics, a priority for the Department. According to the CDC, approximately 130 Americans die every day of an opioid overdose.
“Today’s takedown demonstrates the FBI’s unwavering commitment to working alongside our Strike Force partners, including the HHS-OIG and DEA, to fight the opioid epidemic and related criminal activity in the Appalachian region,” said FBI Executive Assistant Director Hess. “We will not stand by and allow the harmful and oftentimes deadly practice of over-prescribing highly addictive drugs to continue unchecked. The FBI will pursue medical personnel who misuse their positions of trust to blatantly disregard others’ very lives for their own financial gain.”
“The opioid crisis has had a devastating impact in the Appalachian region,” said Principal Deputy Inspector General Chiedi. “Addressing this public health issue and ensuring beneficiaries have continuity of care requires a collaborative approach with our federal, state, and local partners. Our commitment is resolute. We will continue working together to protect the health and well-being of all Americans and ending this terrible epidemic.”
“Opioid misuse and abuse is an insidious epidemic, created in large part, by the over-prescribing of potent opioids nationwide, and unfortunately, Appalachia is at the center,” said DEA Assistant Administrator Martin. “Today’s announcement sends a clear message that investigations involving diversion of prescription drugs have been, and continue to be, a priority for DEA.”
“CMS CPI is proud to work very closely everyday with our law enforcement partners to stop the exploitation of vulnerable patients and misuse of taxpayer dollars,” said Deputy Administrator and Director of Center for Program Integrity Alexander. “Nowhere is this collaboration more important than in our fight against the opioid crisis in America. This is one of the President’s highest priorities and we are proud to be an important part of the largest prescription opioid enforcement effort ever undertaken. We will continue to work tirelessly through investigation, data coordination and administrative action to protect the health and wellbeing of all Americans.”
The ARPO Strike Force is made up of prosecutors and data analysts with the HCF Unit, prosecutors with the 10 U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the region, including the newly added Western District of Virginia, and special agents with the FBI, HHS-OIG and DEA. The ARPO Strike Force operates out of two hubs based in the Cincinnati, Ohio/Northern Kentucky and Nashville, Tennessee, areas, supporting the 10 districts that make up the ARPO Strike Force region. In addition, the APRO Strike Force works closely with other state and federal law enforcement agencies, including the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, State Medicaid Fraud Control Units.
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For the ARPO Strike force locations, in the Southern District of Ohio, six individuals, including two doctors and three registered pharmacists were charged with several counts, including unlawful distribution of controlled substances and conspiracy to obtain controlled substances by fraud. In one case, a doctor who is alleged to have been at one time the highest prescriber of controlled substances in the state, and several pharmacists are charged with operating an alleged “pill mill” in Dayton, Ohio. According to the indictment, between October 2015 and October 2017 alone, the pharmacy allegedly dispensed over 1.75 million pills. These cases were brought with assistance from the FBI, DEA, and HHS-OIG, as well as the Ohio Attorney General's Office, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit; the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation Ohio; the Ohio Board of Pharmacy and the Ohio Medical Board.
In the Western District of Kentucky, a doctor was charged with controlled substance and health care fraud counts in connection with providing pre-signed, blank prescriptions to office staff who then used them to prescribe controlled substances when he was out of the office, and for directing staff at the clinic, including individuals not licensed to practice medicine, to perform medical services on patients. In another case, a doctor, a Florida compounding pharmacy and its owner were charged in connection with a scheme that involved the payment of alleged kickbacks in return for writing prescriptions for compounded drugs that included controlled substances, and for fraudulently inflating the costs for prescriptions that were billed for reimbursement by Medicare and TRICARE. These cases were brought with assistance from the FBI, DEA, HHS-OIG, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, as well as the Kentucky State Police, the Louisville Metropolitan Police Department, the Kentucky Office of Inspector General, the Kentucky Department of Insurance, and the Kentucky Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.
In the Eastern District of Kentucky, a total of five people were charged, including three doctors, a dentist and an office assistant who were charged in connection with several health care fraud and/or controlled substance schemes. In one case a doctor operating a clinic that focused on pain management allegedly provided pre-signed, blank prescriptions to office staff who then used them to prescribe controlled substances when he was out of the office. In another case, a solo practitioner who operates a five-clinic family practice focusing on pain management allegedly billed Medicare for urine testing that was not done and for urine testing that was not medically necessary. A dentist was charged for alleged conduct that included writing prescriptions for opioids that had no legitimate medical purpose and that were outside the usual course of professional practice, removing teeth unnecessarily, scheduling unnecessary follow-up appointments, and billing inappropriately for services. In yet another case, a doctor was charged for allegedly prescribing opioids to Facebook friends who would come to his home to pick up prescriptions, and for signing prescriptions for other persons based on messenger requests to his office manager, who then allegedly delivered the signed prescriptions in exchange for cash. These cases were brought with assistance from the FBI, DEA, HHS-OIG, and the Kentucky Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.
In the Middle District of Tennessee, federal indictments were unsealed today charging nine Middle Tennessee medical professionals, including four doctors, four nurse practitioners and a pharmacist, with various charges alleging their participation in illegally prescribing and dispensing opioids and other dangerous narcotics and health care fraud schemes. Two cases involve doctors who were previously sanctioned by the Tennessee Medical Board in connection with the overprescribing of opioids, one of whom was sanctioned for providing prescriptions to vulnerable patients, while the other allegedly prescribed opioid pills after serving a Board imposed term of probation. Another case alleges that a doctor prescribed opioids and other controlled substances to at least four individuals. In another case, an advanced practice registered nurse at a pain management clinic allegedly wrote prescriptions for opioids that had no legitimate medical purpose and that were outside the usual course of professional practice. Separately, a pharmacist was charged for allegedly dispensing large amounts of opioids outside the usual scope of professional practice and for no legitimate medical purpose. Finally, a podiatrist was charged with unlawful distribution of controlled substances. In addition to assistance provided by the FBI, DEA, and HHS-OIG, these cases were brought in connection with assistance from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit; the 18th Judicial District Drug Task Force; the Sumner County District Attorney’s Office; and the District Attorney General for the 22nd Judicial District.
In the Eastern District of Tennessee, at total of eight individuals, including five doctors, a nurse practitioner, a physician’s assistant, and an office manager were charged in four cases. Four doctors, a nurse practitioner and a physician’s assistant were charged with the unlawful distribution of opioids. Two doctors were charged with health care fraud violations. Three of these cases are related to alleged pill mill operations in the Eastern District of Tennessee. In addition to assistance provided by the FBI, DEA, and HHS-OIG, these cases were brought in connection with assistance from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.
In the Western District of Tennessee, 15 individuals were charged, involving eight doctors and several other medical professionals. In one case, a doctor who branded himself the “Rock Doc,” allegedly prescribed powerful and dangerous combinations of opioids and benzodiazepines, sometimes in exchange for sexual favors; over approximately three years, the doctor allegedly prescribed approximately 500,000 hydrocodone pills, 300,000 oxycodone pills, 1,500 fentanyl patches, and more than 600,000 benzodiazepine pills. In another case, a nurse practitioner charged with conspiracy to unlawfully distribute controlled substances allegedly prescribed over 500,000 Hydrocodone pills, approximately 300,000 Oxycodone pills, and approximately 300,000 benzodiazepine pills (mostly Alprazolam), along with a myriad of other controlled substances. In another case, a physician charged with controlled substances and health care fraud violations allegedly prescribed approximately 300,000 hydrocodone pills, 200,000 oxycodone pills, 2,500 fentanyl patches, and 180,000 benzodiazepine pills, and prescribed medically unnecessary durable medical equipment that was billed to Medicare. Another doctor charged with controlled substances violations allegedly prescribed approximately 4.2 million opioid pills, sometimes in dangerous combinations with other drugs, such as benzodiazepines, and prescribed opioids to known addicts. In addition to assistance provided by the FBI, DEA, and HHS-OIG, these cases were brought in connection with assistance from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the Tennessee Office of Inspector General, and the West Tennessee Drug Task Force (28th District).
In the Northern District of Alabama, multiple individuals were charged in five cases, including four doctors. In one case, the owners and operators of a medical clinic and dispensary were charged with the unlawful distribution of controlled substances and health care fraud. In that case, a doctor allegedly prescribed opioids in high dosages, dangerous combinations, and in many cases, after having knowledge that patients failed drug screens and were addicts, preferring cash payments and charging a “concierge fee” that ranged from approximately $50 per visit or $600 per year. In another case, a doctor allegedly recruited prostitutes and other young women with whom he had sexual relationships to become patients at his clinic, while simultaneously allowing them and their associates to abuse illicit drugs at his house. In yet another case, a doctor allegedly dispensed controlled substances and other prescription drugs directly from the clinic, and prescribed excessive quantities of controlled substances to the same patients several times per month resulting in as many as 15 pills per day for some patients. In that case, the doctor also signed blank prescription forms to be completed by her staff when she was not at the clinic.
In addition to assistance provided by the FBI, DEA, HHS-OIG, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, these cases were brought in connection with assistance from the Hoover Police Department, the Huntsville Police Department, the Huntsville Area HIDTA Drug Task Force Strategic Counter Drug Team, the Marshall County Drug Task Force, the Alabama Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office.
In the Northern District of West Virginia, a case was brought against an orthopedic surgeon who allegedly used fraudulent prescriptions to obtain tablets of acetaminophen-codeine for his own use. To obtain the pills, the surgeon allegedly wrote out prescriptions using his DEA number, and in the names of a relative even though the pills were for his own use, using a driver’s license that he had stolen from a colleague to obtain the pills from pharmacy. This case was brought in connection with assistance from the DEA and HHS-OIG.
In the Southern District of West Virginia, a doctor was charged with allegedly distributing narcotics, including dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate, and amphetamine salt, to a patient who did not have a medical need for the drugs and whom the doctor never examined. This case was brought in connection with assistance from the DEA and HHS-OIG.
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In addition to the ARPO Strike Force districts, today’s enforcement actions include cases brought in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and the Eastern District of Louisiana.
In the Eastern District of Louisiana, a neurologist at an alleged pill mill was charged with conspiracy to dispense controlled substances and conspiracy to commit health care fraud. The defendant allegedly pre-signed prescriptions for controlled substances, including oxycodone, for patients whom he did not personally examine to determine medical necessity for the prescriptions, and pre-signed prescriptions for controlled substances while he was travelling internationally. The defendant allegedly knew that certain of these patients used their Medicare Part D and Medicaid benefits to pay for the medically unnecessary prescriptions. In addition to assistance provided by the FBI, DEA, HHS-OIG, these cases were brought in connection with assistance from the U.S. Departments of Veterans Affairs – Office of Investigations.
In the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, a former licensed practical nurse allegedly filled fraudulent prescriptions for oxycodone in her name and in the names of others at a local pharmacy in order to obtain the pills for herself and to distribute to others. In addition to assistance provided by the FBI, DEA, HHS-OIG, the Office of Personnel Management, the U.S. Marshalls Service, these cases were brought in connection with assistance from the Caln Township Police.
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For any patients impacted by the law enforcement operations, DOJ, DEA, HHS-OIG, HHS’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and all five State Departments of Health are deploying federal and state-level strategies to address patient harm and insure continuity of care. Additional information regarding available treatment programs and where patients can turn for assistance is available as follows:
Alabama: The Alabama Department of Mental Health has a dedicated telephone number to connect those affected by the closure. The toll-free substance abuse number is 1-844-307-1760. Information about substance abuse and opioids is available at the following websites:
http://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/pharmacy/opioid-and-heroin.html
https://mh.alabama.gov/understanding-the-opioid-crisis/
Kentucky: If you are in Kentucky and are suffering with addiction you can find help by calling 833-8KY-HELP or logging in at Findhelpnowky.org
Ohio: If you are seeking help in Ohio, please call the OhioMHAS patient helpline, at 1-877-275-6364
Tennessee: If you are seeking help in Tennessee:
• For a referral to addiction treatment services, call the Tennessee REDLINE: 800-889-9789.
• In a mental health crisis, call the Statewide Crisis Line: 855-CRISIS-1 (855-274-7471).
• For help accessing substance abuse or mental health services call the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Helpline: 800-560-5767 or 615-532-6700. This line is staffed Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. CT.
West Virginia: If you are in West Virginia and are suffering with addiction you can find help by calling 1-844-HELP-4WV or logging in at https://HelpandHopeWV.org
For individuals seeking help in other states, please call 1-800-662-HELPThe Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion. The Medicare Fraud Strike Force, including the ARPO Strike Force, has charged more than 200 individuals with opioid-related crimes.
If you, a family member, friend or loved one believe you may be a victim in any of these cases or in connection with any charged defendant, please visit the following website for additional information: https://www.justice.gov/criminal-vns/case/ARPO
Additional documents related to this announcement are available here:
https://www.justice.gov/opa/documents-and-resources-april-17-2019-press-conference
Taylor County man admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Edward Boyce, II, of Flemington, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Boyce, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Boyce admitted to distributing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in September 2018 in Harrison County.Boyce 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Clarksburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County man admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Khareem Sampson, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Sampson, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Sampson admitted to distributing methamphetamine in July 2018 in Monongalia County.Sampson 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 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. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Maryland man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Kevin E. Burley, Jr., of Parkville, Maryland, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Burley, also known as “Breeze,” age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Burley, having been previously convicted of three felonies, admitted to having a 9mm pistol and four.380 caliber pistols in September 2016 in Preston County.
Burley faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Preston County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Michael John Aloi presided.
Taylor County woman sentenced for bank fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Karen Kinsley, of Grafton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 36 months incarceration for taking out loans and opening accounts in bank customers’ names without their knowledge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Kinsley, age 46, pled guilty to one count of “Bank Fraud” in September 2018. Kinsley admitted to originating several loans in bank customers’ names without their consent or knowledge, reopening closed checking and saving accounts without the customers’ knowledge, and used some of the loan proceeds for personal use and some for payments on other fraudulent loans. Kinsley committed the crime while she was a branch manager of the Clear Mountain Bank inside the Kroger store in Sabraton, Monongalia County from June 2014 to September 2017.
The judge also ordered restitution in the amount of $170,219.19.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Berkeley County man admits to cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tion Rector Jackson, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to cocaine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jackson, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Jackson admitted to selling cocaine base in November 2017 in Berkeley County.
Jackson 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 Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
U.S. Attorney’s Office and WV Human Trafficking Task Force offer trainingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG – A human trafficking training will be held this week in Berkeley County as a part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, along with the West Virginia Human Trafficking Task Force, has partnered with the Eastern Panhandle Empowerment Center to offer “Human Trafficking 101: Criminal Justice Response.” The goal of the training is to convey the reality and seriousness of human trafficking crimes. The training will provide practical guidance to distinguish trafficking from other crimes and offer a comprehensive overview of the state and federal anti-trafficking laws. It will also provide information on the identifying and triage of trafficking victims, and more on initiating trafficking investigations.
The day will include presentations from Criminal Chief Paul T. Camilletti and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar, both of the Northern District of West Virginia; Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Kulpa of the Western District of Virginia; Sgt. Talia Davita of the West Virginia State Police; FBI Special Agent Theresa Hudson, and Katie Spriggs, the Executive Director of the Eastern Panhandle Empowerment Center.
The event will be held at the Shepherdstown Fire Department on Thursday, April 11, 2019. More than 100 attendees are expected, which includes law enforcement, prosecutors, and service providers. The event is free for those registered.
In 2018, the National Human Trafficking hotline received 52 calls regarding human trafficking in West Virginia. Those calls resulted in the identification of 12 confirmed cases. The majority of those cases were sex trafficking cases.
For more information on human trafficking, go to the West Virginia Human Trafficking Task Force website at https://stophumantraffickingwv.org/.
Ohio County man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Derek Schultz, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was arraigned today on a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Schultz, age 53, was indicted by a federal grand sitting in Wheeling on April 2, 2019 on one count of “Prohibited Possession of a Machinegun” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of N.F.A. Firearm.” Schultz is accused of 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 cases 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Martinsburg man admits to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Benjamin Campbell, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to possessing child pornography, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Campbell, age 21, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Campbell admitted to having child pornography in his possession between February 2017 and May 2018 in Berkeley County.
Campbell 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 investigated.
This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
U.S. Magistrate Robert W. Trumble presided.
Ohio County residents indicted on methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Chad Markle and Tiffany Markle, both of Wheeling, West Virginia, will be arraigned this week on drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
The Markles were indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling on April 2, 2019 on methamphetamine distribution charges.
Chad, age 31, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Tiffany, age 33, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine,” and two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.”
Both are accused of 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.
Chad Markle faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each of his counts. Tiffany Markle also faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each of her 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the cases 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Mississippi man and Harrison County man admit to roles in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kedric Pearson, of Waynesboro, Mississippi, and Taylor Espinoza, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, have admitted to their involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pearson, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Pearson admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine in Harrison County and elsewhere from the fall of 2017 to September 2018.
Espinoza, age 21, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Espinoza admitted to having methamphetamine in August 2018 in Harrison County.
Pearson and Espinoza each face 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 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 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.
Ohio County residents indicted on methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin R. Beaver, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was arraigned today on drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Beaver, age 26, was indicted by a federal grand sitting in Wheeling on April 2, 2019 on four counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Beaver is accused of distributing methamphetamine in Marshall County in November 2018.
Beaver faces up to 20 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 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ohio County man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Xavier C. Coyle, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was arraigned today on a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Coyle, age 29, was indicted by a federal grand sitting in Wheeling on April 2, 2019 on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Coyle, having previously been convicted of a felony, is accused of having 9mm pistol in December 2019 in Marshall County.
Coyle faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the cases 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Marshall County woman sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jamie L. Moore, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 87 months incarceration for drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Moore, age 47, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Methamphetamine” in February 2019. Moore admitted to conspiring with others to distribute methamphetamine in 2017 and 2018 in Marshall County.
The judge also ordered the forfeiture of a property located at 1512 Lindsay Lane in Moundsville, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office; the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office; the Sistersville Police Department; the Paden City Police Department; and the New Martinsville Police Department investigated. The Columbus, Ohio, Police Department Gang Crimes Unit assisted in the case.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Philadelphia man admits to fentanyl distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Anthony Richardson, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has admitted to distributing fentanyl, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Richardson, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Richardson admitted to having more than 40 grams of a substance containing fentanyl in Ohio County in August 2018.
Richardson faces no less than five years 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wheeling 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 Robert W. Trumble presided.
Marion County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marcus Devaughn Coleman, of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Coleman, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Coleman, who is prohibited from having a firearm, admitted to having 9mm pistol in March 2018 in Marion County.
Coleman faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Justice Department observes national crime victims’ rights week with events throughout the countryRead the Press Release
WHEELING – In observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 7-13, 2019, the Northern District of West Virginia’s United States Attorney’s Office will speak to several schools about social media, online safety and drug prevention, as well as hold a human trafficking training in Shepherdstown, all to help prevent and support victims in the district.
“Victims of crime deserve justice. This Department works every day to help them recover and to find, prosecute, and convict those who have done them harm,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “During this National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we pause to remember the millions of Americans who have been victims of crime and we thank public servants who have served them in especially heroic ways. This week the men and women of the Department recommit ourselves once again to ensuring that crime victims continue to have a voice in our legal system, to securing justice for them, and to preventing other Americans from suffering what they have endured."
“We act on behalf of crime victims and do what they cannot. We investigate, prosecute, and advocate for proper punishment, including payment of appropriate restitution. We work every day to try and assuage their fear, anxiety or loss. Victims of crime deserve no less, and we will continue to work diligently on their behalf,” said Powell.
Each year in April, the Department of Justice and United States Attorneys’ offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. In addition, the Justice Department and U.S. Attorneys’ offices organize events to honor the victims and advocates, as well as bring awareness to services available to victims of crime. This year’s observance takes place April 7-13, with the theme: Honoring Our Past. Creating Hope for the Future.
The U.S. Department of Justice will host the Office for Victims of Crime’s annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 12, 2019, to honor outstanding individuals and programs that serve victims of crime.
The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, within the Office of Justice Programs, leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week each year. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in 1981 to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and rights of victims of crime.
The Office of Justice Programs provides innovative leadership to federal, state, local, and tribal justice systems, by disseminating state-of-the art knowledge and practices across America, and providing grants for the implementation of these crime-fighting strategies. Because most of the responsibility for crime control and prevention falls to law enforcement officers in states, cities, and neighborhoods, the federal government can be effective in these areas only to the extent that it can enter into partnerships with these officers. More information about the Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov. More information about Crime Victim’s Rights Week can be found at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/. You may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Northern District of West Virginia Victim Witness Program at 304-234-0100.
Op-Ed from the U.S. Attorney re: National Crime Victims’ Rights Week April 7-13, 2019Read the Press Release
It was forty-five years ago. I still think about it. I think about how helpless I was when the three thugs on a city bus robbed me of my valuables at knifepoint as I was coming home from school. My experience pales in comparison to what so many crime victims deal with on a day-to-day basis. But, my experience allows me to empathize to a much greater degree than I would otherwise be able to do. Each year the Department of Justice and United States Attorneys’ offices—including mine—observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf.
Our office has worked with hundreds of victims over the past year. And we have in every instance worked to get them justice. Victims of fraud, victims of sexual exploitation, victims of the opioid epidemic and elder victims have all exhibited the courage to come forward and describe their often heart-wrenching experiences. Sometimes the pain associated with the crime has to be relived again and again as the court proceedings are concluded. It is painful for them—every single time. But, without their courage we could not do our jobs of prosecuting the perpetrators of the crimes and advocate appropriate punishments.
Our prosecutions have led to the removal of hundreds of pounds of dangerous drugs, the prosecution of several adults who sexually exploited children and doctors who have monetized their efforts to keep their patients addicted to opioids. We have also spent many hours in the community educating children and adults about the dangers of drugs, addiction, social media and internet schemes.
Our attorneys and the law enforcement community continue to pursue the fraudsters, drug dealers, exploiters of children and the elderly alike. But, our work would be impossible without the courageous victims. Hopefully, their efforts will encourage the many victims who are too afraid to come forward or feel foolish that they were taken advantage of. To those victims, I say, I understand, but we want to help you and we need your help. It is why we do what we do, and we are proud to honor all crime victims this month.
-U.S. Attorney Bill Powell, the Northern District of West Virginia
Mineral County man admits to role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nathan E. Carpenter, of Elk Garden, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in a drug distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Carpenter, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Carpenter admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine from August 2017 to June 2018 in Mineral, Hardy, and Hampshire Counties and elsewhere.
Carpenter 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 Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Harrison County man sentenced for role in heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David C. Chalfant, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 10 months incarceration for his role in a heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Chalfant, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin” in May 2018. Chalfant admitted to selling heroin in March 2016 in Harrison County.
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 admits to role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Cody Boley, of Wallace, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Boley, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Boley, being a person prohibited from possessing a firearm, admitted to having a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol in May 2018 in Lewis County.
Boley 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 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 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.
Hampshire County man admits to Clean Water Act violationsRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Peer, of Springfield, West Virginia, has admitted to violating permits and discharging untreated sewage from his sewage treatment plant, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Peer, age 55, was the owner of Mountainaire Village Utility, LLC, a sewage water treatment plant serving the residents of Mountainaire Village near Ridgeley, West Virginia. Peer owned and operated this business from early 2008 to July 2016. Peer pled guilty to one count of “Knowing Violation of Permit Conditions” and one count of “False Statements on Discharge Monitoring Reports.”
From 2014 to 2016, Peer admitted to failing to maintain the treatment plant, resulting in untreated and undertreated sewage being discharged into the North Branch of the Potomac River, violating the Clean Water Act and his permit. Peer also admitted to falsely reporting quarterly testing on the wastewater from the plant.
Peer faces not more than 3 years; not less than $5,000 (if a fine is imposed) and not more than $50,000 per day of violation; or $250,000; or twice the amount of gain or loss; for the permit violation count. He faces up to two years incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000 for the discharge count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri and Special Assistant United States Attorney Perry McDaniel, with the Southern District of West Virginia U.S. Attorney’s Office, are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Environmental Protection Agency and the West Virginia Department of Environment Protection investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Ohio man indicted for crossing state lines to have illegal sexual contactRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – James Vincent Scott, of Hudson, Ohio, was indicted today by a federal grand jury on a sex charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Scott, age 31, was indicted on one count of “Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct.” Scott is accused of traveling from Ohio to Harrison County, West Virginia, to engage in illegal sexual conduct in February 2019.
Scott faces 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 Danae Demasi-Lemon is prosecuting the cases 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.
Ohio couple indicted for filing inaccurate bankruptcy claimRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Larry E. Brown and Jacinta Jo Brown, both of Wintersville, Ohio, were indicted today by a federal grand jury on a false bankruptcy charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Larry Brown, age 68, and Jacinta Brown, age 64, were each indicted on one count of “False Bankruptcy Declaration.” The Browns are accused of fraudulently omitting an interest in an ongoing claim against a corporation, as required by law.
The Browns each face up to five 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 Jeffrey A. Finucane is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Georgia man admits to distributing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Spencer Lee Sarver, of Springfield, Georgia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Sarver, age 63, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Sarver admitted to distributing methamphetamine from January 2017 to September 2018 in Wetzel County.
Sarver faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Monroe County, Ohio Sheriff’s Office; and the New Martinsville Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys honoredRead the Press Release
Pictured left to right are: Adam Cohen, Director of OCEDFT; Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher, award recipient; Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins, award recipient; U.S. Attorney Bill Powell, the Northern District of West VirginiaMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –United States Attorney Bill Powell is proud to announce that three Assistant United States Attorneys in the Northern District of West Virginia are being recognized today in Baltimore for their work to combat the opioid epidemic.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Lara K. Omps-Botteicher, along with former NDWV Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski, now with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Hampshire, will be recognized at the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Awards for their exemplary work on cases involving opioid reduction in the Northern District of West Virginia.
“Our honored Assistant United States Attorneys and law enforcement agents are extraordinarily hard working and professional. They come to work every day with one mission: to protect the people of this district. They do so with great enthusiasm, a just mind and without any concern for recognition. But, when recognition comes we should embrace it for it reminds us how fortunate we are to have them helping to protect each of us. I am proud to be associated with them, and congratulate them all on this well-deserved recognition,” said Powell.
Along with Adkins, Omps-Botteicher, and Krasinski, several other Northern District of West Virginia law enforcement professionals will be recognized at the ceremony.
The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program was established in 1982 to coordinate a comprehensive attack against organized drug traffickers. Today, the OCDETF Program is the centerpiece of the United States Attorney General’s drug strategy to reduce the availability of drugs by disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, money-laundering networks, and related criminal enterprises.
OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of federal law enforcement agencies in a coordinated attack against major drug trafficking and transnational criminal organizations. The OCDETF program includes the 94 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices (USAOs), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (USCIS), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), the Criminal and Tax Divisions of the U.S. Department of Justice, and numerous State and local agencies.
Michigan man sentenced for oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Sean Miller Phillips, Jr., of Eastpointe, Michigan, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for oxycodone distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Phillips, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Oxycodone” in November 2018. Phillips admitted to selling oxycodone in March 2017 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Drug 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.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.