Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Berkeley County man indicted for drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Herman Terrell Govan, of Inwood, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg on January 23, 2019 on drug and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Govan, age 35, is charged with three counts of “Distribution of Heroin” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Govan is accused of selling heroin in December 2017 and January 2018 in Berkeley County. Govan, a person prohibited from having firearms, is also accused of possessing a .30 caliber rifle.
Govan faces up to 20 years incarceration and a $1,000,000 fine for each of the heroin counts. He faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
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 Timothy 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two sentenced in cocaine distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Martinsburg men were sentenced today for their involvement with a multi-state drug trafficking operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Kenneth Biermann-Ruz, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, age 29, was sentenced to five years probation. Biermann-Ruz pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine” in September 2018. Biermann-Ruz admitted to selling cocaine in Berkeley County in October 2016.
Adam Bensaid, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, age 20, was sentenced to time served and three years supervised release. Bensaid pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine” in September 2018. Bensaid admitted to selling cocaine in Berkeley County in January 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Lara K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Western District of Virginia assisted. The investigation was 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 were 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.
Monongalia County man admits to drug distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Howard, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to 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.” 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 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 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.
Mineral County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas Edward Wright, of Keyser, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 103 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wright, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm” in October 2018. Wright admitted to possessing a stolen .22 caliber long rifle in February 2016 in Mineral County.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Keyser Police Department investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Carl Cedric Booth, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for distributing heroin, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Booth, age 21, pled guilty to one count of “Possession With the Intent to Distribute Heroin” in December 2017. Booth admitted to distributing heroin in October 2016 in Berkeley County, West Virginia.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Tyler County woman sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –Rachel A. Cook, of Sistersville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 18 months incarceration for a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Cook, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in July 2018. Cook admitted to distributing crystal methamphetamine in Tyler County in November 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., and Shawn M. Adkins 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.
Monongalia County woman indicted on firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tara Nicole Shock, of Rosedale, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on January 8, 2019 on firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Shock, age 27, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm" and one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” Shock, a person prohibited from having firearms, is accused of having a .40 caliber pistol and a .45 caliber pistol, both of which are suspected stolen. The crimes allegedly occurred in August 2018 in Monongalia County.
Shock 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Morgantown Police Department, and the Williamstown Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County woman admits to drug distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nicoma L. Knight, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Knight, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” She admitted to using a phone to distribute methamphetamine in June 2018 in Monongalia County.
Knight faces up to four years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County man admits to lying to federal agentRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Darus Zehrbach, of Westover, West Virginia, has admitted to making a false statement, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Zehrbach, age 72, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement to Federal Agent.” 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. The crime took place in Monongalia County in June of 2018.
Zehrbach faces 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 Jarod J. Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Commerce Office of Export Enforcement investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Randolph County woman admits to drug distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Christine Kay Woods, of Elkins, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Woods, age 57, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More than 5 Grams of Methamphetamine.” Woods admitted to distributing more than five grams of methamphetamine in Randolph County from the fall of 2016 to July 2018.
Woods faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Elkins Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Washington, D.C. man admits to firearms chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Roger Anthony Williams, of Washington, D.C., has admitted to firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Williams, age 38, pled guilty to two counts of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Williams, having previously been convicted of second-degree murder in Prince George’s County, Maryland, admitted to having a 9mm pistol in October 2017 in Berkeley County. He also admitted to having .45 caliber pistol and .45 caliber ammunition in September 2018 in the District of Columbia.
Williams faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Randolph County residents admit to drug distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Elkins, West Virginia residents have admitted to drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jeffrey Lynn Woods, age 58, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More than 5 Grams of Methamphetamine.” He admitted to conspiring with others to distribute more than five grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” and “ice,” from the fall of 2016 to July 2018 in Randolph County.
Crystal Key Hensley, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises.” Hensley admitted to using a place in Elkins to distribute methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” and “ice,” in August 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force; and the Elkins Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Berkeley County woman admits to drug distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Samione Monay Jones, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jones, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base ‘Crack’.” Jones admitted to selling “crack” cocaine in May 2017 in Berkeley County.
Jones 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.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecutor’s Office, is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Ohio man admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Oscar Simmons, Jr., of Dayton, Ohio, has admitted to drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Simmons, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Simmons admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Monongalia County in July 2018.
Simmons 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 investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to drug distribution and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Philip K. Finley, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to drug distribution and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Finley, age 51, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime.”
Finley admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Harrison County from March until September 2018. He also admitted to having 12 different firearms in his possession during the crime.
Finley faces 10 years to life incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the methamphetamine charge, and faces no less than five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
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 Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Upshur County man indicted on firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cameron Dixon, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on January 8, 2019 on firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Dixon, age 26, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm as a Drug User” and one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” Dixon, who is prohibited from having a firearm, is accused of having a .45 caliber pistol and a 9mm pistol in September 2017 in Harrison County. The .45 caliber pistol is believed to be stolen.
Dixon 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 Andrew R. Cogar 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.
Tyler County woman sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Desiree Morgan, of Paden City, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Morgan, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in October 2018. Morgan admitted selling methamphetamine in February 2017 in Tyler County.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., and Shawn M. Adkins 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.
Two Maryland men indicted on firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Desmon Johnson and Kevin E. Burley, Jr., both of Parkville, Maryland, were indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on January 8, 2019 on firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Johnson, age 34, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Violate Federal Firearm Laws,” one count of “Engaging in the Business of Firearms Without a License -Aiding and Abetting,” one count of “Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.”
Burley, age 33, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Violate Federal Firearm Laws,” one count of “Engaging in the Business of Firearms Without a License -Aiding and Abetting,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.”
Both men are accused of traveling to Kentucky and West Virginia with the intent of purchasing firearms to then sell those firearms. The two are accused of shipping firearms for sale. Johnson and Burley are not licensed firearms dealers. The crimes allegedly occurred in the Northern District of West Virginia and elsewhere from July 2015 to September 2016.
Johnson and Burley each face up to five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the conspiracy and business charges and faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 on the unlawful firearms count. Johnson also faces up to five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the obliterated serial number charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case 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 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.
Randolph County woman admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Melinda Sharon Higgins, of Elkins, West Virginia, has admitted to drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Higgins, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Hydromorphone.” Higgins admitted to distributing hydromorphone in Randolph County in April 2018.
Higgins 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 Mountain Region 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 Michael John Aloi presided.
Morgan County man indicted for failing to update sex offender registryRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin David Peters, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on January 8, 2019 on a failure to register charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Peters, age 26, was indicted on one count of “Failure to Register.” Peters, having previously been convicted of possession of child pornography in Berkeley County Circuit Court, is accused of traveling to Florida without updating his sex offender registration as required by law. The crime allegedly 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.
Marion County man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marcus Devaughn Coleman, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on January 8, 2019 on a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Coleman, age 35, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Coleman, who is prohibited from having a firearm, is accused of 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Marion County man indicted on drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James G. Moore, Jr., of Fairmont, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on January 8, 2019 on drug distribution and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Moore, age 41, was indicted on one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Moore is accused of having methamphetamine. Moore, who is prohibited from having a firearm, is also accused of having 9mm pistol. The crimes allegedly took place in February 2018 in Marion County.
Moore 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 on 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.
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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Hancock County man sentenced to 10 years for firearms violationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Shannon C. Thornton, of Weirton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months incarceration for illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Thornton, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in October 2018. Thornton, having previously been convicted of felony “Assault with a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Injury” in North Carolina, admitted to possessing a .380 caliber pistol, 9mm caliber pistol, and a .45 caliber pistol in January 2018 in Hancock County.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.
Five men in the U.S. illegally are indictedRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Five men from Mexico, Peru, and Honduras were indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on January 8, 2019, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Four men are charged with one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien.”
Feliciano Pelagio Mariluz-Tafur, age 43, a citizen of Peru
Bruno Mauricio-Solis, age 24, a citizen of Mexico
Javier Rosario-Azamar, age 43, a citizen of Mexico
Jose Cristino Cubas-Zavala, age 29, of HondurasThe four are accused of being in Harrison County in December 2018 after having previously been removed from the United States.
An additional defendant, Guillermo Santiago-Francisco, age 24, a citizen of Mexico, along with Cubas-Zavala are each charged with one count of “Fraud and Misuse of Document.” They are accused of forging a document used as evidence of legal entry or authorized stay for employment in the United States in December 2018 in Harrison County.
The reentry charges carry a sentence of up to two years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. The fraud charge carries a sentence of up to 10 years incarceration and fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and Diplomatic Security Services investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Tyler County man sentenced for connection to a drug distribution operation in Wetzel and Tyler CountiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Boyd Williamson, of Middlebourne, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for his involvement in methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Williamson, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in July 2018. Williamson admitted selling methamphetamine in December 2017 in Wetzel County.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., and Shawn M. Adkins 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.
Wetzel County man sentenced for connection to a drug distribution operation in Wetzel and Tyler CountiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –Ronald Morgan, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 41 months incarceration for his involvement in methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Morgan, age 50, pled guilty in August 2018 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Morgan admitted to selling methamphetamine in March 2017 in Tyler County.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., and Shawn M. Adkins are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol; Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office; the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office; the Sistersville Police Department; the Paden City Police Department; and the New Martinsville Police Department investigated. The Columbus, Ohio, Police Department Gang Crimes Unit assisted in the case.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced for drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Isaiah Davis, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months incarceration for drug and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Davis, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride” and one count of “Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense” in August 2018. Davis admitted to possessing and distributing cocaine in Monongalia County in October 2017. Davis, who was previously convicted of a felony, also admitted to having a .40 caliber pistol, which used during a drug offense, in January of 2018 in Monongalia County.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Morgantown Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Harrison County man sentenced for drug distribution and firearm chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Bailey, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 36 months incarceration for drug distribution and firearm charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Bailey, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” and one count of “Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense” in August 2018. Bailey admitted to selling methamphetamine and being in possession of a firearm during the drug offense in Harrison County in January 2018.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Greater Harrison County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Harrison County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Randall Lee Barker, of Mount Clare, West Virginia has admitted to drug distribution and was sentenced to 36 months probation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Barker, age 56, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Para-Fluorofentanyl.” The crime took place in Harrison County on November 13, 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, the West Virginia State Police, and the Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Berkeley County woman admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shauntae Cherie Placko, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Placko, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement During Purchase of a Firearm.” Placko admitted to making a false statement when purchasing a pistol from a firearms dealer in Berkeley County in October 2017.
Placko faces up to five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the false statement count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Tucker County residents indicted for methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Four Parsons, West Virginia residents are named in an indictment alleging a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Three men and one woman were indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on November 6, 2018. The three men are accused of selling methamphetamine from December 2017 to March 2018 in Tucker and Randolph Counties.
Dustin Bruce Moran, age 32, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine,” two counts of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Offense.”
John Luther Boyles, age 62, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Methamphetamine,” five counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises.”
Phillip Grant Boyles, age 32, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Methamphetamine.”
Donna Alyce Boyles, age 51, was indicted on one count of “Aiding and Abetting Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises.” She and John Boyles are accused of maintain a residence located at 128 Main Street in Parsons, West Virginia, to manufacture, sell or use methamphetamine.
The government asking for forfeiture of $30,893 seized from Dustin Moran in April 2018, $598 seized from John and Donna Boyles in March 2018, and the property at 128 Main Street in Parsons.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Lewis County man admits to drug distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Trenton Farnsworth, of Weston, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Farnsworth, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Possession With the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Farnsworth admitted to possessing more than five grams of methamphetamine in Barbour County in April 2018.
Farnsworth faces 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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Marshall County man admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin Mark Simms, of Moundsville, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Simms, age 63, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” Simms admitted to selling oxycodone in Marshall County in October 2017.
Simms faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
A New York man found guilty of firearms conspiracy and drug chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Amanze Antoine, of Mt. Vernon, New York, was found guilty this week of three counts involving illegal firearms sales and cocaine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
After a three-day trial, a federal jury found Antoine, age 37, 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.
“When firearms are combined with illegal drug distribution it is recipe for disaster. Thanks to the jury, our excellent prosecution team and law enforcement partners our communities are now safer with this verdict,” said Powell.
Antoine faces up to five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms conspiracy charge, up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the cocaine charge, and up to 10 years incarceration and fine of up to $250,000 for the illegal possession charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case 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.
Wheeling Island woman sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Carla Webb Daniels, of Wheeling Island, West Virginia, has been sentenced to 12 months and one day incarceration to be followed by six years supervised release for distributing heroin near an Ohio County school, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Daniels, age 57, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” in April 2018. Daniels admitted to distributing heroin in close proximity to Wheeling Central Catholic High School in Wheeling on February 16, 2017.
Daniels was also ordered to forfeit a 2005 food trailer and $5,547.26 seized on March 8, 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force and the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, HIDTA-funded initiatives, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Upshur County man sentenced to 15 years for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Thunderbolt Dean Whaley, of French Creek, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 180 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine and a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Whaley, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More than 50 grams of Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Carrying a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime” in January 2018. He admitted to conspiring with others in distributing methamphetamines in Upshur County and elsewhere from March 2016 to September 2017. Whaley also admitted to carrying a .38 special revolver during a drug crime in Lewis County in July 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 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, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Upshur County man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marlin E. Beckner, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 63 months incarceration for methamphetamine distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Beckner, age 44, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in August 2018. Beckner admitted to possessing crystal methamphetamine, also known as ice, in September 2017 in Upshur County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives; the Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force; the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; Upshur County Sheriff’s Office; Lewis County Sheriff’s Office; the Buckhannon Police Department; and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Tucker County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard Lee Hollobaugh, of Parsons, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hollobaugh, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in August 2018. Hollobaugh, having previously been convicted of four felonies, admitted to possessing a 9mm pistol in October 2017 in Randolph County.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives and the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Randolph County man sentenced for making a destructive deviceRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert C. Ard, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for charge involving a homemade explosive device found in his home, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ard, age 54, pled guilty to one count of “Making an Unlawful Firearm” in August 2018. Ard admitted to making a firearm, that is a destructive device.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Detroit man sentenced for oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Brown, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to time served for selling oxycodone, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Brown, also known as “Pooh,” age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Oxycodone.” Brown admitted to selling oxycodone in October 2015 in Monongalia County.
Brown 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.
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 Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Valley 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 US Marshals Service, the Internal Revenue Service, the Monongalia County Processing and Transport Personnel, the Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force MHIT Group, the Mountain State Drug Task Force, the Three Rivers Drug Task Force-Fairmont, and the Fairmont Police Department assisted.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Tucker County woman sentenced for illegal firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jamie Huffman, of Parsons, West Virginia was sentenced today to five years probation for firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Huffman, age 36, pled guilty to two counts of “Theft of Firearm from Federal Firearm Licensee” in December 2017. Huffman admitted to stealing several firearms from B.F. Long & Co, a Federal Firearm Licensee, including a .38 caliber revolver, and a .40 caliber Glock pistol, and a 9mm pistol. The crimes occurred in July and August 2016 in Tucker County.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Three West Virginia residents sentenced for their roles in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Three West Virginia residents were sentenced today to a nearly 25 years incarceration combined for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Amanda Mae Bachman, also known as “AB,” age 34, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced to 135 months incarceration. Bachman pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” in February 2018. Bachman to conspiring with others to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. The crime occurred in Upshur County and elsewhere from March 2016 to September 2017.
Brett Allen Reed, age 24, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 84 months incarceration. Reed pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine - Aiding and Abetting” in November 2017. He admitted to aiding another person in distributing methamphetamines in Upshur County in March 2017.
Cassie Chase Poland, age 19, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 78 months incarceration. She pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine - Aiding and Abetting” in November 2017. Poland admitted to aiding another in distributing methamphetamine in Randolph County in April 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted 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. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Braxton County man sentenced for firearms and drug chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles William Masters, of Burnsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 101 months incarceration for firearms and drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Masters, age 44, 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 April 2018. Masters admitted to illegally possessing a 9mm pistol while possessing methamphetamine on July 3, 2017 in Lewis County, West Virginia.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office 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 John Preston Bailey presided.
Baltimore man found guilty of having shank in prisonRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Samuel Hogans, of Baltimore, Maryland, was found guilty today after a one-day trial of having a weapon, or shank, in prison, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hogans, also known as Richard Hogans, also known as “Lex,” age 38, was found guilty of one count of “Possessing Contraband in Prison.” Hogans, an inmate at the Eastern Regional Jail in Berkeley County where he was being held on another federal charge, had a shank in August 2018.
Hogans faces up to five years 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 Finucane is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service and the West Virginia Division of Corrections investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Virginia man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Chance Allen Good, of Stanley, Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Good, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” Good admitted to having a stolen .22 caliber rifle in Mineral County in March 2018.
Good faces up to 10 years 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), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Attorney General’s Office has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Attorney General’s Office announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara 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.
Lewis County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Roger Lee Clem, II, aka “Woody,” of Weston, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Clem, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm” in July 2018. Clem admitted to having a stolen .45-caliber pistol in Lewis County in October 2016.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Attorney General’s Office has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Attorney General’s Office announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Harrison County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael A. Spino, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Spino, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in July 2018. Spino, having been previously convicted of two felonies, admitted to having an unregistered 12-gauge sawed-off shotgun in January 2018 in Harrison County.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Attorney General’s Office has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Attorney General’s Office announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia Probation Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Florida man sentenced for fraud charges involving gas station skimmersRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Yarai Fuentes Quinones, of Hialeah, Florida, was sentenced today to 36 months incarceration for his involvement with a gas station skimming fraud scheme, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Quinones, age 27, pled guilty today to one count of “Access Device Fraud-Use of Unauthorized Access Device” in June 2018.
He admitted to his role in a conspiracy spanning four states that involved using skimming devices at gas pumps, using technology to upload the account information, and creating fraudulent cards with said accounts to make unauthorized transactions at different businesses in West Virginia and elsewhere.
Quinones was also ordered to pay $61,844.66 in restitution.
The United States was granted forfeiture of the following:
a. approximately thirty-three (33) gift cards containing an unknown value;
b. approximately $72,495.73 in United States Currency;
c. approximately $28,498.00 worth of Western Union money orders;
d. approximately $10,300.00 worth of MoneyGram money orders;
e. one magnetic stripe card reader-writer-encoder
f. two laptops
g. six cell phonesAssistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Secret Service, The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, West Virginia State Police, and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Elkins woman admits to drug distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Sydney Marie Calain, of Elkins, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Calain, age 20, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Calain admitted to distributing methamphetamine in June 2017 in Randolph County.
Calain faces up to 20 years 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 Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.Cleveland man sentenced to more than 12 years for drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony Walter Rogers, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 151 months incarceration for cocaine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Rogers, age 27, pled guilty to three counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base” in September 2018. Rogers admitted to selling cocaine in Marshall County in August 2017 and April 2018.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.