Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced for Role in Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rodney Johnson, 48, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 188 months in federal prison for his leadership of a drug trafficking organization that sold large amounts of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in North Central West Virginia.
According to court documents, Johnson recruited others to distribute in Morgantown, West Virginia, paying the distributors a salary to transport and sell the drugs. He supplied significant quantities of illicit drugs to be sold.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
This case was investigated by the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force consists of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the West Virginia State Police; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Morgantown Police Department; the WVU Police Department; the Granville Police Department; and the Star City Police Department.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Michigan Man Sentenced for Role in Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason T. Scruggs, 42, of Clinton, Michigan, was sentenced today to 108 months in prison for the distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Scruggs, also known as “Rock” and “Roc,” was one of the main conspirators, transporting large quantities of controlled substances from Detroit to Clarksburg, West Virginia. During one of the trips, a traffic stop resulted in the seizure of 443 grams of methamphetamine and more than 50 grams of fentanyl. Scruggs recruited others to assist in the drug trafficking operation. Scruggs has prior convictions that include firearms offenses, domestic violence, retail fraud, assault with a dangerous weapon, and breaking and entering.
Scruggs will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christie Utt prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
New Jersey Woman Sentenced for Investment FraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Diana Mae Fernandez, age 38, of Bergenfield, New Jersey, was sentenced today to 33 months in federal prison for an investment scheme in which victims from West Virginia and elsewhere lost more than $300,000.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Fernandez, also known as “Diana Fernandez Koporan,” “Dana Fernandez,” and “Dajana Ko,” operated purported investment firms known as “The Self Made Success” and “Diana Mae K., LLC.” She used social media to advertise her services as “no risk” or offering “guaranteed” profit returns. Multiple victims, including an individual from Marion County, West Virginia, were defrauded of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Fernandez used the money she stole for her own benefit.
Fernandez was ordered to pay $330,144.00 in restitution to the victims. She will serve three years of supervised release following her prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The FBI investigated the case.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Hardy County Man Admits to Federal Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin Ray Guessford, age 40, of Fisher, West Virginia, has admitted to the unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, Guessford, also known as “Justin Ray Gilbert,” was found with a .22 caliber rifle in Hardy County. Guessford is prohibited from having firearms because of prior malicious wounding and child neglect convictions.
Guessford is facing up to 10 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Morgantown Construction Company Owner Admits to Harboring Illegals, Tax FraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Hetzon Marroquin Reyes, owner and operator of A&M Homes, LLC, in Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to harboring illegal aliens for financial gain and tax interference.
According to the court documents and statements made in court, Reyes, also known as “Hector,” age 40, hired and harbored illegal aliens to work for his construction company. Reyes created fraudulent driver’s licenses and immigration forms to provide to the West Virginia Division of Labor inspectors. Reyes also used social security numbers issued to persons other than the illegal employees for tax purposes. In some cases, the social security numbers used actually belonged to deceased individuals.
“We are committed to protecting the integrity of the United States’ immigration system and preventing the exploitation of that system for any purpose, including commercial advantage and private financial gain,” stated Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard. “Those, like the defendant, who choose to violate the law for a perceived profit will do so at their peril and at the expense of a substantial fine and imprisonment.”
Reyes faces up to 10 years in federal prison for the harboring charge and faces up to three years for the tax interference count. A federal district court judge would determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, and the Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America [link], a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Grant County Woman Admits to Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Theresa Marie Lipkey, age 43, of Petersburg, West Virginia, has admitted to the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Lipkey’s vehicle was searched during a traffic stop when she was driving from Morgantown to Petersburg. The search resulted in the seizure of 129 grams of methamphetamine.
Lipkey is facing up to 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Georgia Man Admits to $1 Million Wire FraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Prince Boateng Adjei, age 31, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, has admitted to wire fraud involving more than $1 million stolen from a Gilmer County, WV business.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Adjei and another defendant, Chisom Okonkwo, conspired together to carry out a business email compromise scheme. The defendants created an email disguising themselves as an employee of a Gilmer County business. This type of activity is commonly referred to as “spoofing.” As part of the fraud scheme, the defendants caused a person (who believed they were dealing with a legitimate business) to send more than $1 million to a bank account controlled by the defendants. Adjei and Okonkwo spent more than $600,000 of the stolen funds before the scheme was discovered.
Okonkwo pled guilty earlier this month. She will be sentenced at a later date.
As a part of the plea agreement, Adjei agreed to pay $610,146.03 in restitution. He faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service investigated the case.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
West Virginia Residents Sentenced for Roles in Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Monongalia County residents have been sentenced for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy operating in the Northern District of West Virginia.
Jennifer Clapper, 37, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison. Jamie Purtee, 33, of Morgantown, West Virginia was sentenced to 60 months.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Clapper and Purtee were part of a drug trafficking organization (DTO) operating in Monongalia County, unlawfully distributing kilograms of controlled substances for more than six years. The drug organization originated in Philadelphia, PA from which its members transported 5 to 10 pounds of methamphetamine to Morgantown per trip. Clapper and Purtee were distributors for the DTO.
Following their prison sentences, Clapper and Purtee will serve three years of supervised release.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
The Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Michigan Man Sentenced for Role in Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Davonta D. Brogdon, 32, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 150 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine as a part of a larger drug trafficking operation in Harrison County.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Brogdon, also known as “Zone” and “Tay,” was one of the main conspirators, transporting large quantities of controlled substances from Detroit to Clarksburg, West Virginia. During one of Brogdon’s trips, a traffic stop recovered 443 grams of methamphetamine and more than 50 grams of fentanyl. Brogdon also recruited others to assist in the operation.
Brogdon will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christie Utt prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Tyler County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jordan Tyler Kerns, 32, of Paden City, West Virginia, was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Kerns was selling methamphetamine in Wetzel County. During the investigation, Kerns was observed traveling to the Morgantown area to obtain methamphetamine. Officers conducted a traffic stop during one of these trips and seized 80 grams of meth from his vehicle.
Kerns will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Parkersburg Man Sentenced for Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael McHenry, age 23, of Parkersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 155 months in federal prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, McHenry is prohibited from having firearms because of a grand larceny conviction in Wood County. McHenry and a second defendant, Garrett DeBerry, carjacked a vehicle at gunpoint and led officers on a high-speed chase through Monongalia County. McHenry used a 9mm pistol during the crime.
McHenry will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
DeBerry, 26, of Morgantown, West Virginia, pled guilty in June 2024 to the unlawful possession of a firearm. DeBerry is prohibited because of a prior firearms conviction in Monongalia County. He will be sentenced in May 2025.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Maryland Man Admits to Drug and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Ryan Zajac, age 30, of Parkville, Maryland, has admitted to cocaine and firearms charges.
Zajac pled guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. According to court documents, Zajac had a firearm and cocaine in Berkeley County.
Zajac is facing up to 20 years in federal prison for the drug charge and faces up to 15 years for the firearms charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Kane 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.
Two Men Convicted of Drug Trafficking in Monongalia CountyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal jury convicted two individuals for their roles in a drug trafficking organization that was distributing illegal drugs in North Central West Virginia.
Frank Brown, 35, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Rex Jenkins, 32, of Southfield, Michigan, were each convicted of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and the distribution of methamphetamine. Jenkins was convicted of two additional counts involving the distribution of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine.
The jury heard evidence that the two men were a part of the drug trafficking organization, supplying large amounts of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in Morgantown, West Virginia.
Brown and Jenkins each face up to 20 years for each count. They will be sentenced at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley and AUSA Christie UTT are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the United States.
This case was investigated by the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force consists of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the West Virginia State Police; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Morgantown Police Department; the WVU Police Department; the Granville Police Department; and the Star City Police Department.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies and eliminates the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Morgantown Business Owner Sentenced for Federal Broadband Funding FraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Chad Henson, the owner of Clearfiber, Inc., an internet service provider in Monongalia County, was sentenced today to 18 months in federal prison for money laundering.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Henson, 35, of Morgantown, West Virginia, applied for United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) funding to provide high-speed internet services in Monongalia and Marion Counties. The USDA’s Community Connect Program offered grants to eligible applicants providing broadband services to rural areas. Henson’s Clearfiber, Inc. was awarded $1.96 million. Henson then submitted false invoices to the USDA to receive more than $340,000, transferring $322,900 into another bank account for his personal use.
Henson was ordered to pay $1,401,849.06 in restitution.
Henson will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Michigan Man Sentenced to 14 Years for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cedrick Dion Tyron Griffin, age 26, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Fairmont Police Department was investigating a shooting that led them to Griffin. A search of his Morgantown apartment, his vehicle, and a hotel room in his name resulted in the seizure of $28,000, 144 grams of fentanyl, more than 1,100 grams of methamphetamine, and a firearm. Griffin has a criminal history that includes obstructing/assault on a police officer, attempted murder, wanton endangerment, malicious wounding, drug trafficking and witness intimidation.
Griffin will also serve four years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Three Rivers Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Georgia Woman Admits to $1 Million Wire FraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Chisom Okonkwo, age 28, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, has admitted to wire fraud causing a Gilmer County business to send three fraudulent wires totaling over $1 million as part of a business email compromise scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Okonkwo and another defendant created an email address that spoofed that of an employee at a Gilmer County business, causing a vendor to send more than $1 million to a bank account controlled by the defendants. Okonkwo and the co-defendant expended more than $600,000 of the stolen funds before the scheme was discovered.
The second defendant, Prince Boateng Adjei, 31, also of Lawrenceville, Georgia, is scheduled for trial in April 2025.
Okonkwo agrees to pay $610,146.03 in restitution as a part of the plea agreement. She faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service investigated the case.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County Man Admits to Failing to Report to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Mansfield Davis, 68, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to failing to surrender for a federal sentence.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Davis failed to report to federal prison for an 82-month sentence for a child pornography charge in the Northern District of West Virginia. Davis didn’t report to prison and was ultimately arrested on October 15, 2024 in Williamsburg, Virginia.
Davis faces up to an additional 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christie Utt is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Hardy County Man Convicted of Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal jury has convicted a West Virginia man of firearms charges.
James Douglas Lambert, age 36, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was found guilty of two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm. Lambert has prior convictions of domestic battery, breaking and entering, and escape, prohibiting him from having firearms. The jury heard testimony that the West Virginia State Police, acting on a tip, visited Lambert’s home. During a search of the residence, troopers recovered seven firearms. On a separate date, Lambert was arrested for brandishing a firearm, which also led to the recovery of an additional firearm.
Lambert faces up to 15 years in federal prison for each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen Warner and Will Rhee prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Ohio County Man Sentenced to Decade for Role in Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Daryl Smith, 50, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months in federal prison for the distribution of cocaine base.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Smith was selling cocaine base in Ohio County and was involved with a drug trafficking operation that spanned from Las Vegas, Nevada to the Ohio Valley. Smith has prior drug and assault convictions.
Smith will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, Marshall County Drug Task Force, and the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, all HIDTA-funded initiatives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; West Virginia State Police; Wheeling Police Department; Ohio County Sheriff’s Office; and the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Press release on the associated case: www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/federal-grand-jury-indicts-twenty-six-drug-trafficking
Morgantown Physician Sentenced for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David M. Anderson, age 64, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced to six months in federal prison for filing false tax returns.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Anderson, a physician, filed false tax returns that understated his taxable income and made false claims to lessen his tax burden, causing a loss to the IRS of $143,599 over a four-year period.
Anderson will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Jefferson County Man Sentenced for Cocaine ChargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jamie Green, age 47, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General intercepted a package containing more than two pounds of cocaine mailed from Los Angeles, California, to Green’s address in Jefferson County, West Virginia. Investigators arrested Green at his home. He has prior convictions for drugs, aggravated assault by a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, and firearms convictions.
Green will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Kane prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, the West Virginia State Police, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County Man Admits to Role in Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Reyes, age 55, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to working with others in a large-scale drug operation in the Eastern Panhandle.
Reyes pled guilty to the distribution of cocaine. According to court documents and statements made in court, Reyes was selling drugs for the drug trafficking organization
Reyes is facing 20 years to life in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force was the lead investigative unit. Other investigative agencies that assisted include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, including the Pittsburgh, San Francisco, San Juan, and Philadelphia Field Offices; United States Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Postal Service; Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisville and Chicago Divisions; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Martinsburg Police Department; Ranson Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; Berkeley County Sheriff's Office; Jefferson County Sheriff's Office; West Virginia Air National Guard; Mineral County Sheriff's Office; Grant County Sheriff's Office; Hampshire County Sheriff's Department; Keyser Police Department; Northwest Regional Drug Task Force, Virginia; Pennsylvania State Police; Franklin County Sheriff's Office, Pennsylvania; Winchester Police Department, Virginia; Frederick County Sheriff's Office, Virginia; Virginia State Police; Sunnyvale Police Department, California.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Pennsylvania Man Sentenced for Fentanyl Related OffenseRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Pennsylvania resident has been sentenced for drug-related charges in the Northern District of West Virginia.
Jo-El Torres, 40, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
During a traffic stop in Clarksburg, West Virginia, a K9 officer positively alerted for the presence of drugs in a vehicle occupied by Torres. Torres was directed to exit the vehicle. At that point, Torres attempted to swallow a bag and its contents. Officers were able to subdue him and retrieve the bag. Subsequent lab tests confirmed that the bag contained fentanyl and other drugs. This is the third federal drug conviction for Torres.
Torres will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The matter was investigated by the Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA funded initiative; the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office; the Clarksburg Police Department; and the West Virginia State Police.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
West Virginia Resident Sentenced for Role in Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A West Virginia resident has been sentenced for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy operating in the Northern District of West Virginia.
Joshua Noel, 42, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Noel was part of a drug trafficking organization operating in Monongalia County, West Virginia, that distributed large quantities of controlled substances for more than six years. The drug organization, with its origins in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, transported 5 to 10 pounds of methamphetamine to Morgantown per trip.
Noel will serve 3 years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Ohio Man Admits to Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rodney S. Knotts, age 55, of Ravenna, Ohio, has admitted to unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Knotts possessed eight (8) firearms in Ritchie County, WV. Knotts is prohibited from possessing firearms because of a prior felony drug conviction in Ohio.
Knotts is facing up to 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney William Rhee is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Upshur County Woman Sentenced for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Devonna Nicole Moul, 30, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced to 56 months for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Moul, also known as “Devonna Nicole Keyser,” was selling methamphetamine in Elkins. Moul has prior convictions for drug violations, escape, and fleeing.
Moul will serve three years of supervised release after her prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative., investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Two Individuals Found Guilty in Massive Drug Trafficking Operation in the Eastern Panhandle of West VirginiaRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced today that two men were found guilty for their roles in a massive drug trafficking conspiracy that operated in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.
Lance Wade Cole, Jr., 53, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, and Damian Costello, 28, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, were found guilty by a federal trial jury of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, methamphetamine hydrochloride, cocaine, and cocaine base. Cole and Costello along with 80 other defendants were involved in the conspiracy. The leader of the Baltimore-based drug trafficking organization was co-defendant, Gary Brown, Jr. The investigation involved over 100 kilograms of fentanyl.
Prior to today’s verdict, seventy-seven (77) defendants had already entered guilty pleas. Fifty (50) defendants are awaiting sentencing. Twenty-seven (27) who have entered pleas have been sentenced. Some of those recently sentenced include:
- Gregory O’Brien Long, Jr., 36, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, three years of supervised release;
- Amber Jean Davis, 41, of Bunker Hill, West Virginia, sentenced to 96 months in prison, three years of supervised release;
- Zachary Thomas Doman, 24, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, sentenced to 70 months, three years of supervised release;
- John Wesley Yates, 37, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, sentenced to 70 months in prison, three years of supervised release;
- Jeremy Jason Crock, 43, of Romney, West Virginia, sentenced to 87 months in federal prison, three years of supervised release;
- Michael Lee Engle, 47, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, sentenced to 57 months, three years of supervised release.
Two (2) defendants, Matthew David Viands, of Summit Point, West Virginia, and Charles Delroy Singletary, of Baltimore, Maryland, are fugitives.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher and Kyle Kane are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
Investigative agencies include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Pittsburgh Field Division and Baltimore Field Division); the Drug Enforcement Administration; the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations; the United States Postal Inspection Service; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the United States Marshals Service; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office; the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office; Ranson Police Department; Martinsburg Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; Stafford County Sheriff's Office (Virginia); Frederick County Sheriff's Office (Maryland); Frederick County Sheriff's Office (Virginia); Winchester Police Department; and the Clarke County Sheriff's Office (Virginia).
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Original press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/investigators-dismantle-fentanyl-drug-trafficking-network-eastern-panhandle
Texas Man Sentenced for Role in Multi-State Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony Allen, age 38, of Rosenberg, Texas, was sentenced today to 188 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Allen was the leader of a drug trafficking conspiracy, selling methamphetamine, cocaine base, cocaine hydrochloride, fentanyl, and heroin in Monongalia County. Allen was operating the organization from a townhouse in Morgantown and a storage unit in Star City. Allen’s drug supply came from California and was shipped via FedEx and USPS. The shipments totaled nearly 66 pounds of methamphetamine. Investigators also seized packages sent from California to Houston containing cocaine and fentanyl.
Allen will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The FBI's Northern West Virginia Drug Task Force in partnership with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The Task Forces have members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Monongalia County Sheriff's Office; and the Morgantown, WVU, Granville, and Star City Police Departments. The investigation was also assisted by the following law enforcement partners: the Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI in Houston, Texas; the Houston Police Department's Multi-Agency Gang Initiative; the United States Postal Inspection Service in Houston; and the FBI and DEA in Los Angeles, California.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Morgantown Sex Offender Sentenced to 10 Years After Traveling to Mexico to Purchase ChildRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Scott David Bixler, 43, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced to the statutory maximum sentence of 120 months imprisonment for failing to update his sex offender registration. Bixler will serve a lifetime of supervision following his prison sentence.
Bixler is a convicted sex offender and is required to register under the Sex Offender Registration Act (SORNA) for life. As part of his registration obligations, he is required to report any international travel. In July of 2023, Bixler fled to Mexico shortly before he was scheduled to appear in state court for sentencing related to criminal convictions for failure to register as a sex offender under West Virginia law.
When Bixler and his spouse were arrested in Mexico, they possessed two pellet guns, methamphetamine, a cell phone jammer, and a large amount of cash. The investigation also revealed that the Bixlers were attempting to purchase a young girl while in Mexico. Fortunately, Mexican authorities thwarted the plan and arrested the couple.
“The sentence handed down by the Court ensures that the Defendant will be confined in prison for the maximum time allowed by law,” said Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard. “I shudder to think what might have happened but for the dedication of AUSA Perri, the federal and state law enforcement agencies, as well as the Mexican authorities. Our community and children are safer because of their efforts and the sentence imposed.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI, the U.S. Marshals Services, and the West Virginia State Police investigated this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, 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 to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
One Sentenced, Two Admit to Roles in Ohio Valley Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Three men appeared in federal court this week for their involvement with a drug trafficking operation in the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia.
James Kidder, also known as “Jamey,” 47, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine. He has a criminal history that includes domestic violence, assault, theft, drug trafficking, and burglary.
James Galloway, 28, of Bellaire, Ohio, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and cocaine base. Matthew Clemont, 32, of Wheeling, West Virginia, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court documents, the three men were distributors in a larger drug trafficking operation that spanned from Las Vegas, Nevada, to the Ohio Valley.
Kidder will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Galloway and Clemont each face up to 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, Marshall County Drug Task Force, and the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, all HIDTA-funded initiatives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; West Virginia State Police; Wheeling Police Department; Ohio County Sheriff’s Office; and the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Press release on the associated case: www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/federal-grand-jury-indicts-twenty-six-drug-trafficking
Ohio Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Stephan G. Ward, 32, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced today to 100 months in federal prison for the distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Ward, also known as “YG,” was delivering methamphetamine to others for distribution in Marshall County. Ward has prior drug and firearms convictions.
Ward will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Marion County Tax Preparer Sentenced for Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jack Lee Oliver, age 56, of Rivesville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 36 months in federal prison for defrauding the Internal Revenue Service of $708,538.
Oliver was found guilty by a jury in October 2024 of 26 counts involving the preparation and filing of false tax returns.
Oliver is the owner of an insurance sales and tax return preparation business, Insurance Depot, in Fairmont, West Virginia.Oliver prepared tax returns for clients claiming business losses for non-existent businesses and prepared returns for clients who did have businesses, but falsely inflated expenses to cause a business loss, without the knowledge of the clients. In both instances, his actions caused the clients to receive tax refunds to which they were not entitled. Oliver, claimed the foster son of one of his clients on his tax returns, resulting in thousands of dollars in refundable credits to which he was not entitled.
Oliver will serve one year of supervised release following his prison sentence. He was also ordered to cooperate with the IRS to pay back taxes.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod Douglas and Eleanor Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI).
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Ohio Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – David Lamont Hicks, age 48, of Steubenville, Ohio, was sentenced today to 81 months in federal prison for the distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, as part of a drug investigation, officers searched an apartment on Wheeling Island. Hicks fled the apartment on foot and was arrested. Investigators seized methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Hicks has prior convictions for aggravated robbery, drug trafficking, and attempted burglary.
Hicks will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Marshall County Man Sentenced for Role in a Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – KC Vanover, age 48, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison for his role in a drug trafficking operation.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Vanover was working with others to sell hundreds of grams of methamphetamine in Marshall County and elsewhere. The organization’s source of supply was in Georgia. Vanover has prior convictions for grand larceny and battery.
Vanover will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Drug Enforcement Administration-Wheeling; the Drug Enforcement Administration-Clarksburg; the Drug Enforcement Administration-Cleveland; the Drug Enforcement Administration-Detroit; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia State Police; the West Virginia State Parole; the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department; the Moundsville Police Department; the Marshall County Prosecutors Office; the Wheeling Police Department; the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Department; the Guernsey County Sheriff’s Office (Ohio); the Belmont County Drug Task Force (Ohio); the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department; the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Benwood Police Department; and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (Ohio).
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Tyler County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Martin Thomas Anderson, age 36, of Sistersville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 151 months for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Anderson, also known as “Martin McNeil,” was selling methamphetamine in Marshall and Wetzel Counties. Two traffic stops recovered more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, a stolen firearm, cash, and drug paraphernalia from Anderson. Anderson has prior drug, firearms, and escape convictions.
Anderson will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Maryland Man Convicted of Wire Fraud in Hampshire CountyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal jury has convicted a Maryland man of four wire fraud charges.
Duane Dixon, Jr., age 35, of Towson, Maryland, was found guilty of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and three counts of wire fraud. The jury heard testimony that as part of a fraud conspiracy an individual impersonating a landowner contacted a realtor in Winchester, Virginia. The imposter claimed to have authority to sell a parcel of real estate located in Hampshire County, West Virginia. Although having no legal rights to the property, the imposter listed the property for sale through the realtor.
As part of the fraud scheme, deposit information for a bank account belonging to, and controlled by Dixon, a co-conspirator of the imposter, was emailed to a real estate closing agent in an attempt to acquire control of the proceeds from the sham transaction. The imposter continued to make contact via email in his attempt to have funds wired to Dixon’s bank account. When subsequently contacted by an undercover employee of the FBI, Dixon repeatedly lied about his relationship with the sender of the attempted wire transaction and his knowledge regarding the transactions. Dixon’s fraudulent statements were made with the intent to complete the sham transaction. The jury determined that the email communications made in furtherance of the scheme constituted separate acts of wire fraud and returned guilty verdicts on three counts of wire fraud count and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Dixon faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod Douglas and Dan Salem prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Harrison County Man Admits to Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Frederick Blaine Rinehart, Jr., age 54, of Clarksburg West Virginia, has admitted to conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Rinehart was selling methamphetamine in Harrison County. Investigators linked more than 100 grams of methamphetamine to Rinehart, some distributed and some found in his home.
Rinehart is facing up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Two Men Sentenced for Roles in Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men have been sentenced today for their leadership of a drug trafficking operation in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.
Dorian Scott Burks, age 29, of Jeannette, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 262 months in federal prison. John William Malcolm, 57, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 300 months in prison.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Burks, also known as “Cash,” and Malcolm worked with others to sell methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base in Berkeley, Morgan, and Hampshire Counties. Burks would travel from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Clarksburg, West Virginia, and Bunker Hill, West Virginia, to deliver large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine to other conspirators, including Malcolm, for resale in the Eastern Panhandle. During a traffic stop, officers found 333 grams of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in Malcolm’s vehicle.
U.S. District Court Judge Gina M. Groh noted during sentencing that Burks was a dealer’s dealer due to the substantial quantities of high-purity crystal methamphetamine. At the hearing, evidence was presented that Burks supplied over 32 pounds of crystal methamphetamine from January 2023 through July 2023.
Burks had firearms and maintained a property for drug distribution, something the judge took into consideration during sentencing. Malcolm is a career criminal, with a history that includes grand larceny, assault, drug trafficking, and firearms violations.
Burks and Malcolm will each serve five years of supervised release following their prison sentences.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
North Carolina Man Sentenced for Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Hamlett, 49, of Charlotte, North Carolina, was sentenced today to 24 months in federal prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Hamlett was in possession of a stolen firearm during a traffic stop on the interstate in Martinsburg, West Virginia. Hamlett is prohibited from having firearms because of prior felony drug and firearms convictions.
Hamlett will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley Crockett prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Court Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County Man Sentenced for Elder Financial AbuseRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph Beach, age 55, of Inwood, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 41 months in federal prison for fraudulently obtaining a quarter of a million dollars from his father.
Beach pled guilty to one count of wire fraud in March 2024. According to court documents and statements made in court, Beach was the fiduciary for his father, who is under the care of a veterans' facility and receives monthly benefits. As the fiduciary, Beach received his father’s veteran’s disability, retirement, and social security payments but used them for his own benefit. The total amount of funds stolen by Beach was $253,867.12.
Beach was ordered to pay $253,876.12 in restitution and will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, and the Social Security Administration investigated.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Marion County Man Admits to Fentanyl ChargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Emmanuel D. Gibson, 34, of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to the possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Westover Police attempted a traffic stop on Gibson’s vehicle and Gibson fled, leading to a chase that ended with Gibson’s arrest. A vehicle search resulted in the seizure of fentanyl-laced pills, other controlled substances, two firearms, and drug paraphernalia.
Gibson faces up to 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge would determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christie Utt is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Westover Police Department.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Pennsylvania Man Convicted of Wheeling Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal jury has convicted a Pennsylvania man of an Ohio County bank robbery, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Following a two-day trial, Frank L. Morrison, 58, of Braddock Hills, Pennsylvania, was found guilty of bank robbery on Wednesday.
On September 4, 2018, Morrison walked into United Bank in Elm Grove wearing a mask and demanded money from two tellers, obtaining more than $4,200 before fleeing. The jury viewed surveillance video which captured footage of the defendant disposing of his mask and other items into a nearby dumpster. Investigators recovered the material and obtained DNA evidence from the mask that matched with Morrison.
Morrison has a lengthy criminal history, including prior convictions for armed bank robbery, robbery, and access device fraud. He is presently serving an 87-month sentence due to federal firearms convictions in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
“Frank Morrison has made a living committing crimes throughout the region, but his criminal career is now over,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “We will seek a sentence that will keep Mr. Morrison behind bars for the rest of his life so that he can no longer terrorize the public.”
Morrison faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the Wheeling bank robbery conviction, and the United States will seek to have that sentence run consecutively to the term he is currently serving, according to Ihlenfeld.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clayton Reid and Carly Nogay prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police, and the Wheeling Police Department.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Upshur County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Matthew Logan Frame, 38, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 165 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute more than five grams of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, officers were called to a gas station in Belington, West Virginia, on a shots fired incident. Officers attempted to stop Frame’s vehicle and he fled. The chase ended in a crash, and Frame was arrested with two bags of methamphetamine in his pockets. More methamphetamine and cash were recovered during a search of his vehicle.
Frame will serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
The Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office; and the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Taylor County Man Sentenced for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Allen Starkey, 37, of Flemington, West Virginia, was sentenced to 165 months in federal prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, officers were executing an arrest warrant for another defendant for a parole violation at a home in Barbour County. Starkey was hiding inside, where officers also found an assault rifle and a handgun. Starkey has prior drug, burglary, grand larceny, firearms, and battery convictions, prohibiting him from having firearms.
Starkey will serve three years of supervised release after his prison sentence.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the United States Marshals Service; and the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Randolph County Man Admits to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Durnal, 60, of Elkins, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine possession and distribution.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Durnal was part of a drug trafficking organization that was supplying large amounts of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in Morgantown, West Virginia. In a separate case, during a search of his home, officers found hundreds of grams of methamphetamine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda Wesley and Stephen Warner are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Mon Metro Drug Task Force and the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, both HIDTA-funded initiatives.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
U.S. Magistrate Michael John Aloi presided.
New Jersey Man Admits to Wire Fraud Involving West Virginia PropertyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Chukwuemeka Okorocha, age 34, of Jersey City, New Jersey, has admitted to wire fraud.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Okorocha, also known as “Mecca,” was involved in a scheme concerning a real estate transaction in Hampshire County. As part of the scheme, Okorocha coordinated with a third party to impersonate a realtor to send an email to the closing agent with a payoff statement directing payment to an account controlled by Okorocha. Based on this fraudulent email, the closing agent transferred $332,904.37 to the account. Before the fraud was detected, Okorocha and another person spent $29,440.58 of the funds.
As a part of the plea agreement, Okorocha agreed to pay $29,440.58 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Michigan Man Admits to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Robinson-Brown, 26, of Detroit, Michigan, admitted today to the distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Robinson-Brown was one of the leaders of a drug trafficking organization operating in Monongalia County. Robinson-Brown would supply the methamphetamine to others to sell.
Robinson-Brown faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Marshall County Man Admits to Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ryan Bobby Schnettler, 34, of Benwood, West Virginia, admitted today to possessing child pornography.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Schnettler was under supervision because of a prior sex offense conviction. At a home visit, officers found undocumented phones and seized them. Schnettler admitted to going into chat rooms where he pretended to be a 17-year-old male to talk to minors. After Schnettler’s phones were seized, law enforcement obtained a search warrant and searched the phones, locating hundreds of images of child sexual abuse material. The phone also had screenshots of chats with minor females.
Schnettler faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Probation Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Michigan Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Drake D. Dodson-Williams, 33, of Southgate, Michigan, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Dodson-Williams was the leader of a drug trafficking organization, operating from Michigan to Harrison County, West Virginia. During a traffic stop on Dodson-Williams’s vehicle, officers seized cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and cash. The defendant has a criminal history that includes multiple drug convictions.
Dodson-Williams will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christie Utt prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Calhoun County Man Sentenced for a Firearms ConvictionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Victor L. Carpenter, 57, of Mt. Zion, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months in federal prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Carpenter was on state probation for malicious assault and drug charges in Calhoun County. During a probation home visit, officers located a 16-gauge shotgun and ammunition. The gun had been altered with a shortened stock and barrel. Carpenter is prohibited from having firearms because of the felony convictions in Calhoun County.
Carpenter will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Chief U.S. District Court Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.