Northern District of West Virginia

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Eugene Robert LeClear, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration for wire fraud, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

LeClear, age 47, pled guilty to one count of “Wire Fraud” in July 2018. LeClear admitted to defrauding others out of more than $100,000 from August 2016 to December 2017 in Ohio County.

LeClear was also ordered to pay $130,405 in restitution to the victims. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated. 
 
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Lewis Woodyard, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five months probation for his participation in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Woodyard, age 27, was sentenced to five years probation. Woodyard pled guilty to one count of “False Statement to Acquire a Firearm” in January 2018. He admitted to making a false statement when purchasing two pistols in Harrison County in March 2017. 

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 Office of the Attorney General 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 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 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.
 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – John M. Talkington, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 63 months incarceration for his role in a methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution operation that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Talkington, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances” in July 2018. Talkington admitted to conspiring with others to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base from 2016 to April 2018 in Wetzel County, parts of the southern district of West Virginia, Ohio, and Georgia.

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.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles C. Williamson, of Sistersville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 121 months incarceration for methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Williamson, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine” in July 2018. Williamson admitted to selling methamphetamine in November of 2017 in Tyler County. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Great Capacon, West Virginia man was indicted today on a failure to register as a sex offender charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Douglas Brett Bishop, age 51, is charged with one count of “Failure to Register.” Bishop is accused of failing to register as a sex offender in Morgan County, West Virginia from May to September 2018. Bishop was convicted of a crime in Union County, South Carolina that required him to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

Bishop faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated. 

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Michael Martin, of Keyser, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Martin, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Sale or Transfer to a Prohibited Person.” Martin admitted to selling a 12-gauge shotgun to Nathan E. Carpenter, who was known to have been convicted of a crime, in April 2018 in Mineral County.

Martin 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), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions 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 cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Fairmont, West Virginia man was indicted today on a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Brian K. Griffey, age 48, is charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition.” Griffey, having been previously convicted of multiple felonies, is accused of having a 12-gauge shotgun and shotgun shells in Harrison County in June 2018.

Griffey faces a mandatory minimum of 15 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), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions 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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Nutter Fort Police Department investigated. 

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Fairmont, West Virginia man was indicted today on drug possession and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Sanford Austin Mays, age 39, is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearms.” Mays is accused of possessing methamphetamine in Marion County in June 2018. Mays, having been previously convicted of multiple felonies, is also accused of having a .45 caliber pistol in Marion County in June 2018.

Mays faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the methamphetamine count and 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), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions 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 Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the White Hall Police Department investigated. 

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A citizen of Mexico has pled guilty to a fraud charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Irineo Aroldo Matias-Gomez, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Misuse of a Social Security Number.” Matias-Gomez admitted to using a social security number that isn’t his to open a bank account in Berkeley County in October 2017.

Matias-Gomez 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher A. Cobbs, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for selling heroin, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Cobbs, also known as “Bro-Bro,” age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin” in June 2018. Cobbs admitted to selling heroin in July 2015 in Harrison County. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 
 
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dr. Roland F. Chalifoux, Jr., a physician associated with a pain management clinic in McMechen, West Virginia, will pay more than $28,000 in restitution as a part of an agreement, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

The United States filed a pre-trial diversion agreement as a part of a motion to dismiss charges against Chalifoux. Chalifoux, age 59, of St. Clairsville, Ohio, has agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $28,606.75, be under supervision by the United States Probation Office, and abide by all conditions set forth in the agreement for 12 months. If at any time, any violations are made, the United States can rescind the agreement and pursue said charges.

Chalifoux has agreed to pay the following: •    Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services - $2,320.62
•    WV Medicaid Fraud Control Unit - $9,860.95
•    The Health Plan of the Upper Ohio Valley - $11,339.71
•    Blue Cross Blue Shield - $5,085.47

The Motion to Dismiss and the Pre-Trial Diversion Agreement were filed earlier this week.

WHEELING - United States Attorney Bill Powell announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Stephen D. Warner will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 6, 2018, general election.  AUSA Warner has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Northern District of West Virginia, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted without it being stolen because of fraud.  The Department of Justice will act promptly and aggressively to protect the integrity of the election process,” said Powell.

The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur.  The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on election day.

Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them.  For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law.  Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or illiteracy).
The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy.  We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.  In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses on November 6, 2018, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, United States Attorney Powell stated that AUSA/DEO Warner will be on duty in this District while the polls are open.  He can be reached by the public at by calling (304) 636-1739.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (412) 432-4000.

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington, DC by phone at 1-800-253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by email to [email protected] or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php.

United States Attorney Powell said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate.  It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available immediately to my Office, the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division.”
 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – The United States Attorney’s Office and the FBI are investigating the death of James Bulger as a homicide. To protect the integrity of the investigation, no further details will be released at this time. 

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Dontez Rayshawn Hudson, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to heroin distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Hudson, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Hudson admitted to distributing heroin in Randolph County in May 2017.

Hudson 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.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided. 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dorion D. McMullen, of Cleveland, Ohio, and Dennis D. Chapman, also of Cleveland, have admitted to drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

McMullen, also known as “Caesar,” age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” McMullen admitted to selling cocaine in Ohio County in December 2017.

Chapman, also known as “Kobe,” age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” He admitted to selling cocaine near Pulaski Playground in Ohio County, West Virginia, in January 2018.

McMullen faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Chapman faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,0000. 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 Steven L. Vogrin is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
 
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Copen, of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Copen, age 42, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” and three counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity of a Protected Location.” Cope admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Marion County in October of 2017, March of 2018, and April of 2018.

The United States is also seeking forfeiture of $37,829 as proceeds derived directly or indirectly from the alleged crime.

Copen faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Udayappan Subramanian, of Haymarket, Virginia, was sentenced to 12 months probation for unlawful cigarette smuggling, First Assistant United States Attorney Randy Bernard announced today.

Subramanian, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Trafficking of Contraband Cigarettes” in June 2018. He transporting large quantities of contraband cigarettes across state lines for redistribution and sale.  The cigarettes were acquired in Virginia, where the tax rate for cigarettes is one of the lowest in the nation, and sold in other states, including New York, which has one of the nation’s highest tax rates.  The cigarettes were possessed and transported in West Virginia.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Stein prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. Homeland Security Investigations, the Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Lori Murphy, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 15 months incarceration for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Murphy, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1000 feet of Protected Location” in June 2018. Murphy admitted to distributing heroin near North Elementary School in April of 2017 in Monongalia County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Amy Bowlin, of Ranson, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 4 years probation for heroin distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Bowlin, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin” in July 2018. Bowlin admitted to selling heroin in July 2017 in Jefferson County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Juan Mendez-Patishtan, a Mexican national, was sentenced today to 15 months incarceration for a reentry of a removed alien charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Mendez-Patishtan, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien” in June 2018. Mendez-Patishtan admitted to reentering the United States illegally after being removed six separate times from 2010 to 2016. Mendez-Patishtan was found in Harrison County in April 2018.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated.

Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Grover Allen White, of Romney, West Virginia, was sentenced to 30 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

White, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm” in June 2018. White admitted to possessing a stolen .380 caliber pistol. The crime occurred in Hampshire County in June 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions 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 K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
 
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles Marquis Mitchell, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration for distributing heroin, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Mitchell, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a protected location” in April 2018. Mitchell admitted to distributing heroin near a property belonging to West Virginia University in September of 2017 in Monongalia County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The  Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard Ross Valentine, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 41 months incarceration for heroin distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Valentine, age 35, pled guilty one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” in June 2018. Valentine admitted to possessing and distributing heroin in September 2017 in Berkeley County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Douglas Mills, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to probation for cocaine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Mills, also known as “D,” age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base” in July 2018. Mills admitted to selling cocaine in Berkeley County in August 2015.

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 & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Martinsburg Police Department investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eric Drake, of Weirton, West Virginia, has admitted to illegally distributing controlled substances, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Drake, age 48, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of a Controlled Substance.” Drake admitted to selling suboxone in Hancock County in May 2016.

Drake was co-owner of an addiction treatment center, Advance Healthcare, Inc., located at 3300 West Street in Weirton.

Drake faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah E. Wagner and Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Office of Inspector General at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; the WV Offices of the Insurance Commissioner Fraud Division; the WV Medicaid Fraud Control Unit; the Office of Ohio Attorney General Health Care Fraud; the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation; the Hancock-Brook-Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office; and the Weirton Police Department investigated.

These charges are the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep.  This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Glen Woods, of French Creek, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 27 months incarceration for his role in a stolen firearms conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Woods, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Firearm – Aiding and Abetting” in April 2018. Woods admitted to having 21 stolen firearms with the intent to conceal, sell, and barter the firearms in October 2016. 

Woods was also ordered to pay $52,843.91, to be paid jointly with two other defendants, in restitution.

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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions 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.

WASHINGTON - Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division today announced the formation of the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid Strike Force (ARPO Strike Force), a joint law enforcement effort that brings together the resources and expertise of the Health Care Fraud Unit in the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section (HCF Unit), the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for nine federal districts in five states, as well as law enforcement partners at the FBI, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).  The mission of the ARPO Strike Force is to identify and investigate health care fraud schemes in the Appalachian region and surrounding areas, and to effectively and efficiently prosecute medical professionals and others involved in the illegal prescription and distribution of opioids.

Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski was joined in the announcement by U.S. Attorney Robert M. Duncan Jr. for the Eastern District of Kentucky; U.S. Attorney Russell M. Coleman for the Western District of Kentucky; U.S. Attorney Benjamin C. Glassman for the Southern District of Ohio; U.S. Attorney William J. Powell for the Northern District of West Virginia; U.S. Attorney Michael B. Stuart for the Southern District of West Virginia; U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey for the Eastern District of Tennessee; U.S. Attorney Donald Q. Cochran for the Middle District of Tennessee; U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee; U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town for the Northern District of Alabama; Assistant Director Robert Johnson of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division; Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Gary L. Cantrell of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and Assistant Administrator John J. Martin of the DEA Diversion Control Division.

“While the opioid epidemic continues to inflict untold pain and suffering on people across the country, the devastation in the Appalachian region and adjacent areas has been particularly staggering,” said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski.  “It is all the more reprehensible when unscrupulous physicians and pharmacies contribute to the epidemic by illegally supplying dangerous prescription painkillers.  Working with our partners in U.S. Attorney’s Offices and law enforcement, the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid Strike Force will combat illegal prescription opioids and health care fraud by holding accountable corrupt medical professionals who seek to profit off the crisis of opioid addiction.” 

“We have been resolute in our efforts to prosecute the so-called health care professionals who violate their professional oaths to satisfy their greed. The criminal conduct of certain physicians, pharmacists and other medical professionals not only results in significant fraud, but is every bit as bad or worse than the conduct by the common street level drug dealer. The new strike force will provide additional resources for us to weed out the criminal medical professionals and hold them accountable,” said Powell.  

“The creation of the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid Strike Force will bring together critical resources from the FBI and our partners to fight health care fraud in this region and the growing opioid epidemic that faces the United States,” said FBI Assistant Director Johnson.  “Healthcare fraud touches every corner of the United States, and through this strike force, the FBI will continue our tireless work to combat illegal opioid prescriptions and bring to justice those medical professionals who put their greed over the health and wellbeing of their patients.”

“The opioid epidemic has had a devastating impact on Americans across the country, including the people of the Appalachian region,” said HHS-OIG Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Cantrell. “The Strike Force model is a proven mechanism to target illicit conduct and hold accountable criminals involved in illegal opioid prescription and distribution schemes.  We will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to curb this damaging epidemic.”

“Our nation’s opioid crisis requires us to work with unprecedented urgency in attacking drug diversion at every level,” said DEA Assistant Administrator Martin.  “These joint strike force efforts will save lives, while allowing us to better target and bring to justice those who facilitate addiction and profit at the expense of the weakest and most afflicted.”

Prior to this announcement, the HCF Unit operated Medicare Fraud Strike Force’s in 12 locations across the United States including Miami, Florida; Los Angeles, California; Detroit, Michigan; Houston, Texas; Brooklyn, New York; Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Louisiana; Tampa/Orlando, Florida; Chicago, Illinois; and Dallas, Texas, along with a Corporate Strike Force located in Washington, D.C., and the Newark/Philadelphia Regional Medicare Fraud Strike Force.  The Strike Forces represent a partnership between the Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney’s Offices, the FBI, HHS-OIG and the DEA.

The ARPO Strike Force will be made up of prosecutors and data analysts with the HCF Unit, prosecutors with the nine U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the region, and special agents with the FBI, HHS-OIG and DEA.  The ARPO Strike Force will operate out of two hubs based in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky, and Nashville, Tennessee, areas, supporting the nine districts that make up the ARPO Strike Force region.  In addition, the APRO Strike Force will work closely with other various federal law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and IRS Criminal Investigation, and State Medicaid Fraud Control Units.  

The ARPO Strike Force will target criminal conduct associated with the improper prescription and distribution of prescription opioids and other dangerous narcotics throughout the Appalachian region and surrounding areas – focusing on criminal conduct by physicians, pharmacists, and other medical professionals.  The ARPO Strike Force will also investigate and prosecute violations of health care fraud whenever such fraud is detected throughout the region.

In June, Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex M. Azar III noted the success of the Strike Force model while announcing the largest ever health care fraud enforcement action involving 601 charged defendants across 58 federal districts, including 165 doctors, nurses and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud schemes involving more than $2 billion in false billings.  Of those charged, 162 defendants, including 76 doctors, were charged for their roles in prescribing and distributing opioids and other dangerous narcotics.  More information can be obtained at https://www.justice.gov/opa/documents-and-resources-june-28-2018.

In August, Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski announced the Newark/Philadelphia Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which focuses on health care fraud and illegal opioid prescriptions in the Newark/Philadelphia region.

The Strike Force operations are part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country.  Since its inception in March 2007, the prosecutors in the 12 Medicare Fraud Strike Force locations have charged over 4,000 defendants who collectively have falsely billed the Medicare program for over $14 billion.  Since January 2017, the HCF Unit has charged over 85 defendants, including 33 doctors with the illegal prescription of opioids (nearly 30 million pills).
 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Alfredo Amaya Diaz, of Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years probation for filing a false tax return, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Diaz, age 43, pled guilty to one count of “Filing False Income Tax Return” in April 2018. Diaz admitted to filing a tax return for 2016 that understated his income by more than $178,000, resulting in an unpaid tax of more than $50,000. The crime took place in January 2017 in Jefferson County.

Diaz was also ordered to pay $66,344 in restitution.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation.
 
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – An Elkins, West Virginia man was arraigned today on multiple drug charges after being indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Elkins on August 22, 2018, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Thomas Roger Atohi, also known as “Smoke,” age 28, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” and two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity of a Protected Location.” Atohi is accused of selling methamphetamine, sometimes near Beverly Elementary School and Elkins Christian Academy, in Randolph County in August, September, and October 2016.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Regional Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
 

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Rocky Douglas Idleman, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was found guilty today of methamphetamine distribution and firearms charges after a three-day trial, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Idleman, age 39, was found guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More Than 50 Grams of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” two counts of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm,” and one count of “Carry a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime.” Idleman committed the crimes from March 2016 to September 2017 in Upshur County and elsewhere. 

“I want to thank the jury for their service, our law enforcement partners and our trial team for their hard work.  We will continue to vigorously prosecute those who exhibit violent conduct and distribute illegal drugs in our district. There is no place they can hide,” said Powell.  

Idleman faces 15 years to life incarceration for the charges. 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions 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 is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration;  The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force; the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office; the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office; the Buckhannon Police Department; and the Weston Police Department investigated. 
 
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Holly C. Jenkins, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for her role in methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Jenkins, age 55, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” in August 2018. Jenkins admitted to distributing heroin in March 2018 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.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Corey Robert Clark Ford, of Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing fentanyl, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Ford, age 29, pled guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Ford admitted to distributing fentanyl in Jefferson County in January 2017.

Ford faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Wade Rebish, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to having a machine gun, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Rebish, age 30, pled guilty today to one count of “Illegal Possession of Machine Gun.” Rebish admitted to having a 5.7X28 mm caliber machine gun in Berkeley County in March 2017.

Rebish faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney 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.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Martinsburg, West Virginia, residents were arraigned today in federal court after being indicted on August 14, 2018 by a federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg on drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Ellis Reginald Fennell, also known as “Z,” age 30, and Samione Monay Jones, age 31, are each charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base ‘Crack’,” and two counts of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base ‘Crack’.” Fennell and Jones are accused of selling “crack” cocaine in May 2017 in Berkeley County and elsewhere.

Fennell and Jones each face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecutor’s Office, is prosecuting the cases 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.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – United States Attorney Bill Powell is excited to announce the addition of three new attorneys to the Martinsburg office in the Northern District of West Virginia.

Kimberley D. Crockett, Jeffrey Finucane, and Timothy D. Helman were sworn in today by Chief District Judge Gina M. Groh in the Martinsburg Federal Courthouse. Each will be assisting in the criminal division.

“I appreciate the Attorney General’s allocation of additional resources for our district.  

It is the first time in years that we have been able to hire additional prosecutors, and I am confident that they have made our already great group of prosecutors that much better. They are each experienced lawyers who will need little or no time to immediately assist in prosecuting our growing case load,” said Powell. 

Kimberley D. Crocket comes to the U.S. Attorney’s Office with both private practice and public service experience. She most recently practiced law from her law firm Crockett Law, located in Martinsburg.  Kim earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Journalism from West Virginia University (WVU). She obtained her Master’s Degree in English literature and Women’s Studies from WVU, and then worked as an English professor at Delaware State University.  Kim then decided to return to school and attended the WVU College of Law, where she was a DuBois Fellow.  She previously served as an assistant prosecutor for both the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, prosecuting felony crimes of violence with an emphasis on crimes against children.  While Kim worked for the Jefferson County Prosecutor’s Office she served a year-long position as a Special Assistant United States Attorney (SAUSA) working in Martinsburg. 

Jeffrey Finucane comes to the Northern District of West Virginia from the Office of General Counsel at the National Security Agency at Fort Meade, Maryland.  Prior to that, Jeff was a prosecutor in Baltimore City.  He has also been a member of the United States Army JAG Corps since 2008, serving in the Reserves since 2012.  Jeff is a native of Washington, D.C.  He attended law school at the University of California at Davis and undergraduate at Washington University, St. Louis.  

Timothy D. Helman was hired as two-year term Assistant United States Attorney as a part of the opioid surge in the Northern District specifically to focus on prosecuting fentanyl and heroin cases. Tim is a 30-year resident of Martinsburg, WV, and a 2004 graduate of WVU College of Law.  He has spent the past 11 years working in the Berkeley County and Jefferson County prosecuting attorneys’ offices where he prosecuted murder, robbery, public corruption, and other felony cases.  
 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Fourteen West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia residents are facing multiple drug and firearms charges after being indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling on October 3, 2018, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

The 28-count indictment alleges a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Mineral, Hardy, Hampshire Counties, and elsewhere from August 2017 to June 2018, as well as multiple firearms offenses. Those named in the indictment are:

•    Nathan E. Carpenter, age 28, of Elk Garden, West Virginia
•    Michael Corey Alt, age 34, of Elk Garden, West Virginia
•    Corey Bircher, age 25, of Elk Garden, West Virginia
•    Tyler Allen Whitacre, age 25, of Elk Garden, West Virginia
•    Michael Lee Gray, II, age 287, of Marshall, Virginia
•    Brittany Baker, age 22, of Elk Garden, West Virginia
•    Phillip Ryan Williams, age 24, of McCool, Maryland
•    Levi Doman, age 31, of Keyser, West Virginia
•    Joseph Nathaniel Hagan, 35, of Petersburg, West Virginia
•    Gypsy Rene Winkler, 19, of Keyser, West Virginia
•    Michael Dwayne Cosner, 39, of Elk Garden, West Virginia
•    Bryan Keith Presgraves, II, 20, of Luray, Virginia 
•    Steve William Gray, age 38, of Luray, Virginia
•    Chance Allen Good, age 25, of Stanley, Virginia

During the investigation, more than $14,000 was seized, along with four firearms, a set of brass knuckles, a money counter, a security system, a street bike, and a piece of property on Elk Garden Highway in Elk Garden, West Virginia.

“Every day, we see individuals who apparently still believe that they are above the law.  They are not, and my office will relentlessly pursue and prosecute them.  Firearms are often involved with these criminal activities, and our law enforcement partners and citizens are consequently at even greater risk.  We will use all of our resources to prosecute those who continue to pose a danger to law enforcement and our communities,” said Powell.   

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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions 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 cases 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.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Desiree Morgan, of Paden City, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Morgan, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Morgan admitted selling methamphetamine in February 2017 in Tyler County.

Morgan 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. 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.

Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.
 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Brooks Ketterman, of Hambleton, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Ketterman, age 31, pled guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Ketterman admitted to possessing more than five grams of methamphetamine, also known as “Ice,” in Randolph County in September 2017.

Ketterman faces up to 40 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Elkins Police Department investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Sara Payge Gibson, of Elkins, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Gibson, age 25, pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Gibson admitted to selling methamphetamine, also known ‘Ice,” in Randolph County in November 2016.

Gibson 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Three Elkins, West Virginia residents were indicted today by a federal grand jury on drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Jeffrey Lynn Woods, age 57, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More than 5 Grams of Methamphetamine,” two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises – Aiding and Abetting,” two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – Aiding and Abetting,” one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm,” two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin,” one count of “Possess a Firearm in Futherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl – Aiding and Abetting.”

Christine Kay Woods, age 57, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More than 5 Grams of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises – Aiding and Abetting,” two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – Aiding and Abetting,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl – Aiding and Abetting.”

Crystal Key Hensley, age 38, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More than 5 Grams of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises.” 

The three are accused of distributing more than five grams of methamphetamine in Randolph County from the fall of 2016 6o July 2018. Jeffrey and Christine Woods are also accused of using a business called “Lost Treasures” in Elkins to distribute methamphetamine.

During the investigation, more than $3500 was seized, along with multiple firearms.

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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions 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 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, 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.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Mark Jay Courtney, of Montrose, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing heroin, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Courtney, age 39, pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Courtney admitted to selling heroin in Randolph County in January 2018.

Courtney 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – After a two-day trial, Willard Lee Moss, Jr., of Saint Marys, West Virginia, was found guilty by a jury of a firearms violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Moss, age 37, was found guilty of one count of “Domestic Violence Offender in Possession of a Firearm.” Moss, having previously been convicted of two separate domestic violence offenses in Pleasants County, possessed one handgun, three rifles, and two shotguns in his home in February 2018.

Moss 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), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions 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 Davis J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Pleasants County Sheriff’s Office investigated. 

Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men in the United States illegally were sentenced today for drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Hsun Jung Chang, age 30, was sentenced to four months incarceration. Shougi Li, age 24, was sentenced to four months incarceration. Each pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribute Marijuana” in July 2018. The men admitted to possessing marijuana in Ohio County in May 2018.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.
 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Timothy Cobb, of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to a child pornography charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Cobb, age 56, pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Cobb admitted to possessing child pornography in Marion County in September 2014.

Cobb faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin Giesey, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to possessing child pornography, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Giesey, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Giesey admitted to having child pornography depicting a minor under the age of 12 in June 2017 in Ohio County.

Giesey faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David J., Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police, and the Wheeling Police Department investigated. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert W. Tucker, Jr., of Star City, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 34 months incarceration for a sex offender registration violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Tucker, age 43, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration” in June 2018. Tucker admitted to traveling from Monongalia County, West Virginia to South Carolina and North Carolina, without updating his registry, as required by law, in August 2016 and September 2017.

This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.

Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin J. Washington, Jr., of Glenolden, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 63 months incarceration for a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Washington, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone” in July 2018.  Washington admitted to selling oxycodone in Ohio County in February 2016.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp., Jr. presided.
 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William A. Six, of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to selling crystal methamphetamine and having a firearm near a school, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Six, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm in a School Zone.” Six admitted to selling crystal methamphetamine, also known as “Ice,” in Marion County in September 2017. Six also admitted to having a 12-gauge shotgun, and a semi-automatic rifle on the grounds of Washington Irving Middle School in Harrison County in September 2017.

Six faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the drug charge and faces up to five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms in a school zone 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), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions 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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Three Rivers Drug Task Force, and the Fairmont Police Department investigated. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David W. Lipscomb, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to eight months of home confinement to be followed by 28 months of probation for his role in a heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Lipscomb, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin” in May 2018. Lipscomb admitted to selling heroin in Harrison County on March 15, 2016.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
 
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Shannon C. Thornton, of Weirton, West Virginia, has admitted to illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Thornton, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” 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.

Thornton 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), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions 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 Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting 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.