Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Michigan man admits to drug distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Christopher Morgan, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to his role in a heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine distribution operation in Randolph County, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Morgan, also known as “Deon” and “D,” age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, Cocaine Base, and Methamphetamine.” Morgan admitted to working with others to distribute heroin, “crack” cocaine, and methamphetamine in Randolph County from March 2016 to March 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Jefferson County pharmacist ordered to pay more than $335,000 for filling fake prescriptionsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – David M. Wasanyi, a former Martinsburg and Charles Town, West Virginia pharmacist, was ordered to pay $335,670 in civil penalties for filling prescriptions in violation of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wasanyi, age 50, was a pharmacist at City Pharmacy in Martinsburg and at City Pharmacy in Charles Town, West Virginia. From 2010 to 2015, City Pharmacy filled 1,181 invalid prescriptions for controlled substances written by physicians in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and Virginia for patients in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Tennessee and Virginia. All of the purportedly fraudulent patients traveled great distances to have the illegitimate prescriptions filled, most by Wasanyi.
The civil judgment against Wasanyi in the amount of $335,670 is for his estimated income from those illegitimate prescriptions, many of which were written for oxycodone.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Greg Kinskey and Stephanie Savino litigated the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Ohio County man sentenced for failing to update his sex offender registrationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Phillip Sweet, of Triadelphia, West Virginia, was sentenced today to eight months incarceration for not updating his sex offender registration, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Sweet, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration” in February 2019. Sweet admitted to moving from Niagra Falls, New York, to Triadelphia, West Virginia in July 2017 and not updating his sex offender registration, as required by law.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Grant County man admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Lee Pauley, Jr., of Mount Storm, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pauley, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Pauley admitted to working with others to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine from March 2018 to May 2018 in Mineral, Grant, and Randolph Counties.Pauley faces not less than ten years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; and the Ravenswood Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Mineral County man admits to role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Corey Alt, of Elk Garden, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in a drug distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Alt, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Alt admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine from August 2017 to June 2018 in Mineral, Hardy, and Hampshire Counties and elsewhere.
Alt 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 role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Faith Martin, of Shinnston, West Virginia, has admitted to her involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Martin, age 20, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Martin admitted to selling methamphetamine in Harrison County in August 2018.
Martin 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 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.
Harrison County man admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Koch, of Anmore, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Koch, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Koch admitted to selling methamphetamine in August 2018 in Harrison County.Koch 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.
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.
Doddridge County man admits to role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jacob Wright, of West Union, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wright, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Wright admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine in Harrison County and elsewhere from the fall of 2017 to September 2018.
Wright 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 investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Detroit woman admits to role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Geronda Wilson, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to her involvement in a drug distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wilson, age 43, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises.” Wilson admitted to maintain a home in Morgantown, West Virginia, for the purpose of distributing heroin, oxycodone, a crack cocaine from May 2017 to May 2018.
Wilson 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 Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The United States Marshal Service assisted.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Randolph County man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Mark Jay Courtney, of Montrose, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months incarceration for distributing heroin, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Courtney, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin” in October 2018. Courtney admitted to selling heroin in Randolph County in January 2018.
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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Harrison County men admit to their roles in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Clarksburg, West Virginia men have admitted to their involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jesse Pack, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Pack, an unlawful user of a firearm, admitted to having a .9mm pistol in Harrison County in June 2018.
David Weaver, age 34, pled guilty to “Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Weaver admitted to selling methamphetamine near Washington Irving Middle School in Harrison County in October 2017.
Pack faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Weaver faces not less than one year and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
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.
Hardy County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua A. Parker, of Baker, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 27 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Parker, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in November 2018. Parker, having been convicted of four previous felonies, admitted to possessing a 9mm pistol in Hardy County in April 2017.
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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Hardy County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Elkins man sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Oscar Willard Thomas, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration for methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Thomas, also known as “Will Thomas,” age 46, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in November 2018. Thomas admitted to selling methamphetamine in September 2016 in Randolph County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Detroit man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Dontez Rayshawn Hudson, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for a heroin distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hudson, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” in October 2018. Hudson admitted to distributing heroin in Randolph County in May 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
A New York man sentenced for firearms conspiracy and drug chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Amanze Antoine, of Mt. Vernon, New York, was sentenced today to 120 months incarceration for illegal firearms sales and cocaine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
After a three-day trial in December 2018, a federal jury found Antoine, age 38, guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Violate Federal Firearms Laws” one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Antoine recruited a group of individuals in Morgantown, West Virginia and elsewhere to create false documentation to purchase firearms, transported and sold the illegally obtained firearms from West Virginia to New York. He also distributed cocaine in Morgantown in May 2017. Antoine was previously convicted of two crimes in New York, prohibiting him from possessing a firearm.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Upshur County man sentenced for his role in a firearms conspiracyRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Lough, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months incarceration for his role in a firearms theft and sale scheme, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lough, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearm - Aiding and Abetting,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm” in January 2018. Lough, being a person prohibited from possessing a firearm, admitted to receiving, possessing, bartering or selling 21 firearms in Upshur County in October 2016.
Lough was also ordered to pay $54,000 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives; The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force; the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office; the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office; the Buckhannon Police Department; and the Weston Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Tucker County man sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Brooks Ketterman, of Hambleton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ketterman, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in October 2018. Ketterman admitted to possessing more than five grams of methamphetamine, also known as “Ice,” in Randolph County in September 2017.
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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force and the Elkins Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Monongalia County woman sentenced for maintaining a drug houseRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - Brianna Blackman, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 14 months incarceration for having a drug-involved premises, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Blackman, also known as “BB,” age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises” in October 2017. Blackman admitted to maintaining an apartment in Rhea Terrace in Fairmont in Marion County, West Virginia for the purpose of distributing oxycodone. The crime occurred from May until December 2016.
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, led the investigation. The Task Force consists of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, Morgantown Police Department, the Star City Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia University Police Department, the Granville Police Department, and the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
The investigation was funded 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.
Monongalia County man admits to role in a drug distribution operation in Monongalia CountyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Preston Jeffrey Smith, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in a heroin, oxycodone, and cocaine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Smith, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the False Statement in Connection with the Acquisition of a Firearm.” Smith admitted to making a false statement to purchase a 5.56 mm caliber pistol in May 2018 in Monongalia County.Smith 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 Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The United States Marshal Service assisted.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Lewis County man sentenced for drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – John David Davisson, of Weston, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 123 months incarceration for firearms and methamphetamine distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Davisson, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Carry a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime” in October 2018. Davisson admitted to possessing a .45-caliber pistol and two 9mm pistols while possessing crystal methamphetamine, also known as ice, in October 2017 in Lewis County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives and the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Hardy County man sentenced for his role in heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Brandon David Fout, of Oil Fields, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years probation for his role in a heroin distribution ring, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Fout, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Interstate Travel in Furtherance of a Drug Crime” in July 2016. Fout traveled to Maryland from West Virginia to assist in the distribution of heroin in June 2015.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia State Police Criminal Bureau of Investigations, and the Hardy County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Clarksburg man gets life for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Rocky Douglas Idleman, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to life plus 60 months incarceration for methamphetamine distribution and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Idleman, age 39, was found guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More Than 50 Grams of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” two counts of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm,” and one count of “Carry a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime” after a three-day trial in October 2018. Idleman committed the crimes from March 2016 to September 2017 in Upshur County and elsewhere.
“Methamphetamine is an ever-increasing problem in our district and often causes violent behavior. The addition of firearms further enhances the risk of violence. The life sentence handed down by the court was just and sends a very strong message about how these crimes will be prosecuted. We will continue to aggressively prosecute those who flaunt our laws to the detriment of our communities,” said Powell.
“Drug dealers with guns are violent criminals who pose an increased threat to the safety of our communities,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Stuart Lowrey of the Louisville Field Division. “ATF, strives to be ‘no better partner’ to federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Together, we will continue to aggressively investigate, arrest and pursue prosecution of these offenders. Our shared commitment to reducing violent crime continues to make West Virginia safer for everyone.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, composed of the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Elkins Police Department, U.S. Forest Service, and Tucker County Sheriff’s Office; the Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office; the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office; the Buckhannon Police Department; and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Wheeling woman admits to distributing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –Lauren Hedges, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine near a school, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hedges, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Hedges admitted to distributing methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of Wheeling Central Catholic High School in November 2018.
Hedges faces not less than one and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia State Police; and the Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Wetzel County woman admits to distributing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Megan Leigh Thompson, of Proctor, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Thompson, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Thompson admitted to distributing methamphetamine from January 2017 to September 2018 in Wetzel County.
Thompson 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 Department; and the New Martinsville Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Steubenville, Ohio man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Leon King, of Steubenville, Ohio, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for distributing heroin and cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
King, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin and Cocaine” in December 2018. King admitted to selling heroin and cocaine in Hancock County in April 2018.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Ohio County man admits to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kirk Grubler, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to possessing child pornography, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Grubler, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Grubler admitted to having images of child pornography depicting a child under the age of 12 in April 2017 in Ohio County.
Grubler 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 Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Michigan man admits to role in a drug distribution operation in Monongalia CountyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Darius Dunbar, of Southfield, Michigan, has admitted to his involvement in a heroin, oxycodone, and cocaine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Dunbar, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.” Dunbar admitted to selling heroin in July 2017 in Monongalia County.Dunbar 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 Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The United States Marshal Service assisted.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County woman admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jessika Dawn Bishop-Holt, of Anmoore, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Bishop-Holt, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Bishop-Holt admitted to distributing methamphetamine in March 2018 in Harrison County.Bishop-Holt 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 Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Baltimore man admits to role in methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin Jackson, of Baltimore, Maryland, has admitted to his role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jackson, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Jackson admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 2017 in Harrison 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The United States Marshal Service assisted.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Two Michigan men admit to roles in a drug distribution operation in Monongalia CountyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Michigan men have admitted to their involvement in a heroin, oxycodone, and cocaine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Travon Evans, of Detroit, Michigan, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting a False Statement in the Acquisition of a Firearm.” Evans admitted to distributing heroin in June 2018 in Monongalia County. He also admitted to making a false statement in the attempted purchase of a 5.56 mm caliber pistol in May 2018 in Monongalia County.Raymond Edison, of Detroit, Michigan, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone within 1,000 feet of Protected Location.” Edison admitted to selling oxycodone near Suncrest Middle School in Monongalia County in October 2017.
Evans faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the drug count and faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms count. Edison faces no less than one year and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The United States Marshal Service assisted.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
South Carolina women indicted on drug chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Peggy Louise Farrington and Jacqueline Lee Weigland, both of Galivants Ferry, South Carolina, appeared in federal court this week on drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Farrington, age 54, and Weigland, age 57, were each indicted on March 5, 2019 by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” The women are accused of 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Martinsburg Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Marion County man admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brandon Mays, of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Mays, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Mays admitted to distributing methamphetamine in October 2017 in Monongalia County.Mays 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 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.
Illegal Aliens admit to reentry violationsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Bruno Maurico-Solis and Javier Rosario-Azamar, both citizens of Mexico, have admitted to reentering the country illegally, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Maurico-Solis, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Maurico-Solis admitted to being in Harrison County, West Virginia illegally in December 2018 after being removed twice before from the United States for illegal reentry.Rosario-Azamar, age 43, pled guilty to one count of :Reentry of Removed Alien.” He admitted to being in Harrison County, West Virginia illegally in December 2018 after being removed once before from the United States.
Maurico-Solis and Rosario-Azamar were sentenced to time served and 12 months of supervised release.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Harrison County man admits to role in methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Solomon Cottrill, of Salem, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Cottrill, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Cottrill admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 2017 in Harrison County.Cottrill 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.
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.
33 indicted for heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl distribution operation in Berkeley and Jefferson CountiesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury this week has indicted 33 individuals in seven separate indictments involving heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Agents seized 891 grams of different controlled substances, several firearms, ammunition, and more than $33,000 in cash during several raids and searches conducted in West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania in January of 2019 that resulted in the indictments. Those indicted are:- Leroy Raymond Griffin, 38, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Gregory Ian Polk, Jr., 34, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Jason Lamonte Bryant, 41, of Hagerstown, Maryland
- Tyquil Desmont Griffin, 19, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Courtney Guess, 23, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Jessica Nicholson, also known as “J,” age 23, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Anthony Wayne Harrison, II, also known as “Ant,” 29, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Bruce Scott Nicholson, age 52, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Michael Shavar Payton, 34, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Brandy Renae Netz, 34, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Shavon Craig, 34, of Kearneysville, West Virginia
- Devale Montray Jackson, also known as “Devale McNickle,” 58, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Anthony Jones, also known as “Moose,” 42, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Amy Little, also known as “Amy Jackson,” 44, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
- Joshua A. Miller, age 28, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Brianne Katherine Murray, 38, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- David Nathan Huntsberry, 39, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Levar Glenwood Crawford, 41, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Tywonne Crawford, 39, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Todd Jason Erwin, 42, of White Post, Virginia
- Nicholas Wayne Deminds, 30, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- Shannon Keiffer, 33, of Martinsburg, West Virginia
- James Lamont Brinkley, 32, of Baltimore, Maryland
- Sven Artez Alston, 31, of Baltimore, Maryland
- Armstead William Craig, also known as “Manny” and “Manny Moo,” 39, of Ranson, WV
- Sandra Aramburo, 37, of Ranson, West Virginia
- Jansen V. Carr, 34, of Ranson, West Virginia
- Victor Lamont Carr, 59, of Ranson, West Virginia
- Allen Craig, 56, of Ranson, West Virginia
- Wayne Samuel Ellis Clyburn, 50, of Ranson, West Virginia
- Molly L. Huber, 30, of Ranson, West Virginia
- Hopeton Lee Newman, Jr., 31, of Inwood, West Virginia
- Shawn Kendall Murray, 36, of Loudon County, Virginia
“Our resolve is strong. We will not tolerate those who bring death and violence into our communities. Our law enforcement and prosecution teams are highly skilled and supremely dedicated to our mission. Hopefully, those involved in criminal conduct will learn that the potential consequences are not worth the perceived and false reward of their conduct,” said Powell.
"For far too long the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia has been plagued by drugs and violence," said Special Agent in Charge Robert Jones, FBI. "The arrests highlight the collaborative work of all our law enforcement partners and our continuing commitment to use every resource to protect our citizens and get these dangerous and illegal drugs off the streets."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and Assistant U.S Attorney Timothy D. Helman, are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the Martinsburg Police Department, the Charles Town Police Department, and the Ranson Police Department investigated. The United States Marshals assisted in the arrests.
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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ohio woman admits to using someone else’s passportRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Khourtney Alexandra King, of Canton, Ohio, has admitted to using another person’s passport, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
King, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Misuse of a Passport.” King admitted to giving another person’s passport to her employer as proof of identity and citizenship in November 2017 in Ohio County.King 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 Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Harrison County woman admits to role in methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Stormetta Hawkins, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hawkins, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Hawkins admitted to selling methamphetamine in July 2018 in Harrison County.Hawkins 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.
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.
Former West Virginia state trooper indicted for using excessive forceRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG – A federal grand jury today indicted Michael Kennedy, a former West Virginia State Trooper, for using excessive force against an arrestee. Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney Bill Powell made the announcement.
Kennedy, 29, of Morgantown, West Virginia, is charged with one count of “Deprivation of Rights under Color of Law.” According to the indictment, the defendant is accused of using excessive force resulting in bodily injury during an arrest on Nov. 19, 2018, in Berkeley County.Kennedy faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. An indictment is merely an accusation. 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.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas and Department of Justice Civil Rights Trial Attorney Christine Siscaretti are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI investigated.
Former West Virginia State Trooper Indicted for Using Excessive ForceRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury today indicted Michael Kennedy, a former West Virginia State Trooper, for using excessive force against an arrestee. Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney Bill Powell made the announcement.
Kennedy, 29, of Morgantown, West Virginia, is charged with one count of deprivation of rights under color of law. According to the indictment, the defendant is accused of using excessive force resulting in bodily injury during an arrest on Nov. 19, 2018, in Berkeley County.
Kennedy faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilt
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas and Department of Justice Civil Rights Trial Attorney Christine Siscaretti are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI investigated.
Berkeley County man indicted for heroin and fentanyl distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Trey Cardale Campbell, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was indicted today on drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Campbell, age 26, is charged with one count of “Distribution of Heroin” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Furanyl Fentanyl, Heroin, and Fentanyl.” Campbell is accused of distributing heroin, furanyl fentanyl and fentanyl in May 2017 in Berkeley County.Campbell 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 Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Berkeley County man indicted for fentanyl distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nicholas Wayne Deminds, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was indicted today on a drug charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Deminds, age 30, is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Deminds is accused of distributing fentanyl in December 2018 in Berkeley County.Deminds faces 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.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Barbour County woman admits to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nicholle Knotts, of Philippi, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Knotts, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Knotts admitted to distributing methamphetamine in November 2017 in Harrison County.Knotts 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 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.
Three honored with Executive Office of United States Attorney AwardsRead the Press Release
Pictured: Fawn Thomas, Ashley Lough, Tracie WeaverWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –U.S. Attorney Bill Powell is applauding his staff for being recognized for their outstanding work in the Northern District of West Virginia.
The Executive Office for United States Attorneys honors staff from U.S. Attorney’s offices across the country each year to recognize exemplary work within the Department of Justice. Three staff from the Northern District of West Virginia will be honored this year.
Fawn Thomas, Administrative Officer, is being honored for Superior Performance in Administration. Fawn has worked for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for 31 years, serving in several positions prior to becoming the Administrative Officer in 2012. Fawn has been described as a “force of nature”. Her dedication to the District and its staff is unmatched. She travels thousands of miles every year across the District trying to assure all ongoing needs are being met, and does so with a warm and generous spirit. Her work ethic is well-known to all who know her and she exemplifies the District’s motto of “One District, One Mission.” Fawn’ endless hours of dedication greatly justifies the recognition she has now received.
For Superior Performance in Prevention and Reentry Activities, the Executive Office has recognized Reentry Coordinator Ashley Lough. Ashley has been the District’s Reentry Coordinator since 2017, and also serves at the Executive Assistant to the U.S. Attorney. Ashley has worked tirelessly to implement the district’s reentry simulation in all of the District’s federal correctional facilities, as well as several within the West Virginia’s Division of Corrections’ prisons. She has put the District on a national stage as the standard in reentry efforts with this simulation. She also assists with job fairs within our federal prisons, as well as trained those in other Districts across the country on reentry efforts. Her dedication to reentry and the success of those exiting prison is unmatched. Ashley has worked with the District for four years, and with the federal government for 12 years.
Tracie Weaver, Litigation Support Specialist, is being honored for Superior Performance in Litigative Support Role. Tracie was the first Litigation Support Specialist in the District, and has worked tirelessly to master the tools necessary for exemplary work in her position. Tracie has assisted in helped to establish four fully-trained Litigation Support Specialists now in the District. She offers vital assistance and knowledge to the other specialists, to the Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the District, serving as an important part of the criminal prosecution team, and to others on a national level. Tracie has worked for the District for more than 20 years.
“I can’t say enough about these honorees. It is spectacular that a district of our size would have three Director Award recipients in the same year, particularly in light of the highly selective selection process. These awards are well deserved and reflect extraordinary work and dedication. It is a tribute to our district that we have Fawn, Ashley and Tracie. It will be one of my great professional honors to be part of the presentation ceremony. Congratulations to each of them,” said Powell.
The 35th Executive Office for United States Attorneys (EOUSA) Director’s Awards will be held on June 20, 2019 at the Robert F. Kennedy Main Justice Building Great Hall in Washington, D.C.
The EOUSA provides executive and administrative support for the 93 U.S. Attorneys located throughout the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Marianas Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Such support includes legal education, administrative oversight, technical support, and the creation of uniform policies. Learn more at https://www.justice.gov/usao/eousa.
Michigan man admits to role in a drug distribution operation in Monongalia CountyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Maurice Swift, of Highland Park, Michigan, has admitted to his involvement in a heroin, oxycodone, and cocaine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Swift, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1000 feet of Protected Location.” Swift admitted to selling heroin near West Virginia University in June 2017 in Monongalia County.Swift faces one to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The United States Marshal Service assisted.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County woman admits to role in methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jodi Denkenberger, of Mount Clare, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Denkenberger, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Denkenberger admitted to selling methamphetamine in October 2017 in Harrison County.Denkenberger 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.
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.
Former contract security guard at ATF facility indicted for 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, was indicted by a federal grand jury on stolen firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Yates, age 52, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, is charged with one count of “Sale of Stolen Firearm,” one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearms,” one count of “Possession of Unregistered Firearm,” and one count of “Theft of Government Property.” Yates is accused of possessing and selling stolen firearms in Berkeley County in February 2019. Yates is also accused of 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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.
Virginia man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Chance Allen Good, of Stanley, Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Good, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm” in December 2018. Good admitted to having a stolen .22 caliber rifle in Mineral County in March 2018.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, The West Virginia State Police, and the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Philadelphia man sentenced for drug chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony Lamont Lott, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 115 months incarceration for drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lott, also known as “Ant,” age 50, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in September 2018. Lott admitted to distributing cocaine base and methamphetamine in July 2017 and August 2018 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Martinsburg Police Department investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Confirmed MS-13 gang member sentenced for role in cocaine distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Miguel Angel Cruz-Polanco, a confirmed MS-13 gang member and a citizen of El Salvador, was sentenced today to 137 months incarceration for his involvement with a multi-state drug trafficking operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Polanco, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine” and one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien” in September 2018. Cruz-Polanco admitted to selling cocaine in Berkeley County in October 2016, as well as reentering the country illegally.
“The sentence imposed by the court on Mr. Polanco concludes one chapter of a wide-ranging and significant drug and gun investigation in the Eastern Panhandle. Mr. Polanco was a member of the MS-13 gang whose members routinely engage in violence and other criminal activity, including the sale of drugs to finance their activities. Mr. Polanco was also in this country illegally. We will continue to continue to aggressively prosecute all those who bring drugs and violence to our communities. This defendant, and all of the others who have been or who will be sentenced, could not have been brought to justice without the many months of hard work by our task force officers and prosecutors. We owe them a debt of thanks,” said Powell.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Lara K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Western District of Virginia assisted. The investigation is led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, the Northwest Virginia Regional Drug & Gang Task Force , the West Virginia State Police, the Virginia State Police, 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. Other agencies assisting in the investigation are the Winchester City Police Department; and Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office; Pittsylvania County; Virginia Sheriff’s Office; and the Henry County, Virginia, Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County man sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ellis Reginald Fennell, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 24 months incarceration for a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Fennell, also known as “Z,” age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base ‘Crack’” in December 2018. Fennell admitted to selling “crack” cocaine in May 2017 in Berkeley County and elsewhere.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecutor’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.