Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Maryland man sentenced to more than 17 years for selling heroin in Berkeley County, West VirginiaRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Christopher Wigfall, also known as “Frank,” of Randallstown, Maryland, was sentenced today to 210 months incarceration for selling heroin in the Eastern Panhandle, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
“This sentence should send a clear message. We will not tolerate poison being sold to our neighbors. Heroin distribution will be prosecuted to the fullest extent possible. The sentence imposed by the court sends a very strong message. Our work will continue,” said Powell.
Wigfall, age 38, was found guilty of two counts of “Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin” by a jury after a trial in February 2018. Wigfall sold heroin in December 2014 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski and Special Assistant U. S. Attorney Elizabeth D. Grant, also with the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Maryland man sentenced to more than 12 years for drug distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Xavier Clyde Mann, of Finksburg, Maryland, was sentenced today to 151 months incarceration for selling cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Mann, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base” in April 2018. Mann admitted to selling cocaine base in Mineral County in June 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Maryland man sentenced for cocaine chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Lee Wyatt, of Elkridge, Maryland, was sentenced today to 72 months incarceration for cocaine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wyatt, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base” in April 2018. Wyatt admitted to distributing cocaine base in Mineral County in June 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Georgia man sentenced for cigarette smuggling chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Sukhdev Singh Virdi, of Dacula, Georgia, was sentenced today to three years probation for unlawful cigarette smuggling, First Assistant United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced today.
Virdi, age 46, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Traffic in Untaxed Cigarettes” in June 2017. Virdi admitted to conspiring to profit from the unlawful sale of contraband cigarettes.
Virdi was the store manager of American Cigarette Outlet, Inc., in Clearbrook, Virginia, which did business as Virginia Cigarette Outlet and Clearbrook Cigarettes and. He admitted to transporting large quantities of 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 Stein prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. Homeland Security Investigations, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, the Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office, the West Virginia State Police, and the New York City Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County man admits to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Lee Myers, of Bunker Hill, West Virginia, has admitted to possessing child pornography, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Myers, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Myers admitted to having child pornography on his computer in October 2017.
Myers faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of $250,000 fine. 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 Anna Z. Krasinski is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Jefferson County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Guillermo Jose Rodriguez, of Charles Town, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Rodriguez, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Rodriguez admitted to possessing and distributing cocaine in Jefferson County in January 2018.
Rodriguez 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, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Illegal alien admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rogelio Santacruz Godinez, also known as “Tramposo,” also known as “Trampa,” of Axton, Virginia, Citizen of Mexico, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Godinez, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine.” Godinez worked with others to distribute cocaine in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties from August 2017 to February 2018.
Godinez 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 Shawn M. Adkins and Lara K. Omps-Botteicher are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, the Northwest Virginia Regional Drug & Gang Task Force , the West Virginia State Police, the Virginia State Police, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the Martinsburg Police Department, the Charles Town Police Department, and the Ranson Police Department. Other agencies that assisted in the investigation are the Winchester City Police Department; and Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office; Pittsylvania County; Virginia Sheriff’s Office; and the Henry County, Virginia, Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
North Carolina man sentenced for firearm chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jared Tyrone Cooke, of Charlotte, North Carolina, was sentenced today to 84 months incarceration for using a firearm during a crime of violence, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Cooke, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Use of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence” in April 2018. He admitted to brandishing a 12-gauge shotgun during a robbery in January 2017 in Morgantown, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Morgantown Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Michigan man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Danzavious Dolphus, of Harper Woods, Michigan, was sentenced today to 84 months incarceration for a drug distribution conviction, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Dolphus, also known as “Dash,” age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin” in March 2018. Dolphus admitted to selling heroin in June 2017 in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Jamaican man sentenced for scamming Americans with lottery scamRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Zicko Peterkin, of Montego Bay, Jamaica, was sentenced today to 38 months incarceration for operating a lottery scam to defraud American citizens, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Peterkin, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud” in April 2018. As a part of that conspiracy, Peterkin and others made unsolicited phone calls and emails to hundreds of residents in the United States, making false claims that the recipients had won a multi-million dollar lottery prize and a Mercedes Benz vehicle. Peterkin and co-conspirators told victims that, to receive these prizes, they had to send money to cover “processing fees.” Peterkin also sent images of forged cashier’s checks to the recipients, showing the intended target as the payee of the check. In response, victims wired at least $250,000 to Peterkin and his co-conspirators. The crime occurred from September 2008 to July 2011 in the Northern District of West Virginia and other locations across the country.
Peterkin was also ordered to pay $257,978 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Treasury Inspector General for the Tax Administration.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Wetzel County man admits to connection to a drug distribution operation in Wetzel and Tyler CountiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Doug William Matthews, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Matthews, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Matthews admitted selling methamphetamine near Magnolia High School in March 2018 in Wetzel County.
Matthews faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. 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.
Monongalia County woman appears on child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tara Ponceroff, of Morgantown, West Virginia, had an initial appearance today to face multiple child pornography charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ponceroff, age 26, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling on Monday, August 6, 2018, of one count of “Production of Child Pornography,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Production of Child Pornography,” and two counts of “Transportation of Child Pornography.” Ponceroff is accused of producing and distributing child pornography involving two children from November 2017 to January 2018 in Monongalia County.
Ponceroff faces up to 30 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the production and aiding counts. She faces up to 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the transportation counts. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
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 West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County man admits to drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Isaiah Davis, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to drug and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Davis, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride” and one count of “Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense.” Davis admitted to possessing and distributing cocaine in Monongalia County in October 2017. Davis, who was previously convicted of a felony, also admitted to having a .40 caliber pistol, which used during a drug offense, in January of 2018 in Monongalia County.
Davis faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the drug count. He faces not less than five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearm 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Morgantown Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Honored at ATF AwardsRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is the recipient of the ATF Director’s Honor Award, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Warner, who has served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Northern District of West Virginia for 19 years, will receive the award from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) on Thursday, August 16 at the 2018 ATF Annual Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C.
“One of our primary missions is to protect the citizens of this district. Steve Warner has utilized his experience and doggedness to accomplish that goal. With limited resources, Steve has dedicated himself to reducing the number of illegal firearms and drug traffickers in the district. Steve is a dedicated prosecutor and this award is well-deserved. Our office is very proud of Steve, and we are thankful he is part of our team,” said Powell.
“Each year, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives recognizes its employees and external partners who contribute significantly to our mission,” stated Stuart Lowrey, Special Agent in Charge, Louisville Field Division of ATF. “AUSA Steve Warner has been a key federal partner to ATF in several multi-defendant Federal prosecutions in the Northern District of West Virginia. The regional impact of the prosecution and conviction of 52 defendants in 2017 in terms of the disruption and dismantling of two multi-state armed drug trafficking organizations; their illicit acquisition, trafficking and use of firearms; and the reduction in the supply of controlled substances plaguing the West Virginia mountain region, cannot be overstated. I fully endorsed the nomination of Mr. Warner for his outstanding abilities and perseverance. He is truly deserving of this prestigious award.”
Warner is being recognized, in part, because of 52 successful prosecutions over the past two years involving significant amounts of methamphetamine and firearms.
“The cooperative partnership of ATF and AUSA Warner (has) led to the recovery of 90 stolen firearms, the seizure of an additional 140 firearms, over 75 narcotics seizures, and the Federal conviction of 52 defendants. Due to AUSA Warner’s efforts, the communities of Buckhannon and Elkins, WV are better places to live,” said Dewayne Haddix, Resident Agent in Charge, ATF Clarksburg.
Wetzel County man sentenced for child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel P. Sprowl, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 33 months incarceration for possessing child pornography, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Sprowl, age 54, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography” in April 2018. Sprowl admitted to possessing images of child pornography involving children under the age of 12 in November 2016 in Wetzel County.
Sprowl was also ordered to pay $8,000 in restitution and ordered to forfeit his electronic devices used in the crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.
Tyler County and Wetzel County men admit to connection to a drug distribution operation in Wetzel and Tyler CountiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Cathers, of Sistersville, West Virginia, and Ronald Morgan, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, have admitted to their involvement in methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Cathers, age 38, pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Cathers admitted selling methamphetamine in November 2017 in Tyler County.
Morgan, age 50, pled guilty on Friday, August 10, 2018 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Methamphetamine” Morgan admitted to selling methamphetamine in March 2017 in Tyler County.
Cathers and Morgan each face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., and Shawn M. Adkins are prosecuting the cases 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 cases.
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.
Jefferson County, Ohio man sentenced for counterfeit chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Travis Knight, of Mingo Junction, Ohio, was sentenced today to 37 months incarceration for counterfeit currency charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Knight, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Uttering Counterfeit Currency,” and one count of “Attempted Uttering of Counterfeit Currency” in April 2018. Knight admitted to passing counterfeit $50 bills and attempting to pass counterfeit $50 bills in Marion and Monongalia Counties in October and November 2017.
Knight was also ordered to pay $12,450 in restitution for the crimes.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Upshur County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marlin E. Beckner, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, has admitted to a methamphetamine distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Beckner, age 44, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Beckner admitted to possessing crystal methamphetamine, also known as ice, in September 2017 in Upshur County.
Beckner faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives; the Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force; the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; Upshur County Sheriff’s Office; Lewis County Sheriff’s Office; the Buckhannon Police Department; and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Berkeley County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shawn D. Schell, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Schell, also known as “Shaun D. Schell,” age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Schell, having previously been convicted of three felonies, admitted to having a .22 caliber rifle in November 2017 in Berkeley County.
Schell 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.
Jefferson County, Ohio man sentenced to 30 years for drug distribution and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Emory Chiles, of Steubenville, Ohio, was sentenced this week to 360 months incarceration for drug and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
“When illegal drug distribution is combined with firearms it represents a clear and present danger to the citizens of this district and won’t be tolerated. This sentence sends a strong message to those engaging in this type of conduct that they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, “ said Powell.
A jury found Chiles, age 43, guilty of one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin,” one count of “Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in April 2018. Chiles distributed heroin and possessed a 9mm pistol in Monongalia County in November 2017. Chiles was previously convicted of a felony in the Northern District of West Virginia.
“Drug dealers with guns are violent criminals who pose an increased threat to the safety of our communities,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Stuart Lowrey of the Louisville Field Division. “ATF and our local partners will aggressively investigate, arrest and pursue prosecution of these offenders.”
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 Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Tyler County man admits to connection to a drug distribution operation in Wetzel and Tyler CountiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Boyd Williamson, of Middlebourne, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Williamson, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Williamson admitted selling methamphetamine in December 2017 in Wetzel County.
Williamson 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.
Jefferson County man admits to heroin and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tyler Logan Kranenberg, of Ranson, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Kranenberg, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Crime” and one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Kranenberg admitted to possessing a .25 caliber pistol while distributing heroin in July 2017 in Jefferson County.
Kranenberg faces up to life incarceration and a fine of $250,000 for the firearms charge, and he faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the distribution 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 Anna Z. Krasinski 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.
Wetzel County woman admits to connection to a drug distribution operation in Wetzel and Tyler CountiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Holly C. Jenkins, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, has admitted to 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.” Jenkins admitted to distributing heroin in March 2018 in Wetzel County.
Jenkins 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.
U.S. Attorney’s Office salutes everyday superheroes at National Night OutRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The United States Attorney’s Office will join law enforcement and community leaders on Tuesday, August 7, in Bridgeport, Clarksburg, Martinsburg, and Wheeling as part of the annual National Night Out crime and drug prevention event, according to U.S. Attorney Bill Powell.
National Night Out was created to strengthen relationships between the community and law enforcement, heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, and help make our neighborhoods safer.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office theme this year is “Thank You to Our Everyday Superheroes,” saluting first responders. Staff from the U.S. Attorney’s office will be asking participants to sign a large thank you card for the organizing police department at each event.
“There’s never been a better time to support our local law enforcement and first responders. These men and women put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safer. We are proud to participate in National Night Out and to show our gratitude,” said Powell.
The United States Attorney’s Office will be present at four National Night Out events, to include the events at the Bridgeport City Pool in Bridgeport, the VA Park in Clarksburg, the War Memorial Park in Martinsburg, and Wheeling Park in Wheeling. Each of these events will begin at 6 p.m.
National Night Out organizers are expecting over 16,000 communities and 38 million people to take part in community events on Tuesday across the country.
Randolph County man admits to making a destructive deviceRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert C. Ard, of Elkins, West Virginia, has admitted to charges involving two homemade explosive devices found in his home, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ard, age 54, pled guilty to one count of “Making an Unlawful Firearm.” Ard admitted to making a firearm, that is a destructive device.
On June 18, 2018, a search warrant was executed at Ard’s residence because agents had reason to believe there were explosive devices and materials used to make an IED. Upon searching the apartment, agents found two destructive devices and additional components used to construct said devices.
Ard faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of $10,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Wetzel County residents admit to connection to a drug distribution operation in Wetzel and Tyler CountiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Susan Kotson and Randy Peffer, both of New Martinsville, West Virginia, have admitted to their involvement in methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Kotson, age 53, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Maintaining of a Drug-Involved Premises.” Kotson admitted to maintaining a house on Ohio Street in New Martinsville for the purpose of distributing and using drugs.
Peffer, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Peffer admitted to selling methamphetamine in September 2017 in Wetzel County.
Kotson and Peffer each face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. 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.
Harrison County man sentenced for his role in a heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Zachary Allen Queen, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 15 months incarceration for his role in a heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Queen, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of the Controlled Substance Analogue Cyclopropylfentanyl” in March 2018. Queen admitted to selling cyclopropylfentanyl in August 2017 in Harrison County.
Queen is facing 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 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.
Two Clarksburg men sentenced for their roles in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Clarksburg men were sentenced today for their roles in a drug distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ernest Russell Claypool, Jr., age 54, was sentenced to 70 months incarceration. Claypool pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime” and one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises-Aiding and Abetting” in March 2018. Claypool admitted to having 20 different firearms, including pistols, shotguns, rifles, and revolvers, during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. He also admitted to maintaining a property in Clarksburg for distributing heroin and storing and distributing marijuana. The crimes occurred from an unknown date until September 2017 in Harrison County.
Chadley Russell Claypool, age 32, was sentenced to 24 months incarceration. Claypool pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin” and one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl” in March 2018. He admitted to distributing heroin in Harrison County from an unknown date to September 2017. He also admitted to selling fentanyl in August 2017 in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force and the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Jefferson County, Ohio man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Shaheim Price, of Wintersville, Ohio, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Price, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in April 2018. Price, having previously been convicted of a felony, admitted to possessing a 9mm pistol. The crime occurred in Ohio County in October 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. 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 Steven L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.Wood County man admits to connection to a drug distribution operation in Wetzel and Tyler CountiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Lohri, of Williamstown, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lohri, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.” Lohri admitted to his involvement in a conspiracy that consisted of trafficking crystal methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” heroin, and cocaine brought to West Virginia from Columbus, Ohio, and obtained from as far away as Atlanta, Georgia.
Lohri 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Upshur County and Barbour County women sentenced for their roles in a stolen firearms and methamphetamine operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Lisa Kay Knight, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, and Carla Denise Jones, of Volga, West Virginia, were sentenced today for their roles in a stolen firearms and meth distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Knight, age 25, was sentenced today to 15 months incarceration. Knight pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess Stolen Firearms” in December 2017. Knight admitted to conspiring with others to steal, possess, barter and sell firearms for money and methamphetamines in Upshur County and elsewhere from October 2016 to September 2017.
Jones, age 56, was sentenced to three years probation. Jones pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm” in March 2018. Jones, being a person prohibited from possessing a firearm, admitted to possessing two pistols, two rifles, and a shotgun in Barbour County in February 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded 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.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.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Pennsylvania man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin J. Washington, Jr., of Glenolden, Pennsylvania, has admitted to a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Washington, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” Washington admitted to selling oxycodone in Ohio County in February 2016.
Washington faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the 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.
Los Angeles man sentenced to 40 years for drug trafficking in Hardy and Grant CountiesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Cesar Navarro, of Los Angeles, California, was sentenced today to 480 months incarceration for mailing methamphetamine through the U.S. mail, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
“Methamphetamine is an increasing problem in this district. We have seen significant increases in laboratory produced crystal meth coming from other states and countries. With these increases, we have seen more addiction, more violence and more despair. Our prosecutors and law enforcement partners spent countless hours on this case, and it demonstrates the kind of resources will devote to prosecute anyone who thinks they can distribute these highly addictive and dangerous drugs in this district. I have devoted additional resources to the methamphetamine problem, and we will continue to aggressively pursue all those who are involved in its distribution in West Virginia—no matter where they live,” said Powell.
Navarro was also ordered to pay $350,600 in a money judgement.
Navarro, age 40, was found guilty by a federal jury of one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute More than 50 Grams of Methamphetamine,” two counts of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility,” and two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2018.
Navarro often mailed at least one pound of crystal methamphetamine at a time to drug dealers in Grant and Hardy Counties and in Frederick County, Virginia, in exchange for large amounts of cash. Over a period of two years, Navarro was responsible for trafficking into West Virginia approximately fifty pounds of highly pure crystal methamphetamine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen Warner and Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service, The West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations, and the Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Elkins man sentenced for manufacturing and using counterfeit moneyRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony Francis Silvester, III, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration for making and possessing counterfeit money, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Silvester pled guilty to one count of “Uttering Counterfeit Obligations and Securities” in May 2017. He admitted to passing a counterfeit bill in August 2016 at a business in Elkins, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah M. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service, the West Virginia State Police, and the Elkins Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Barbour County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jerry Lee Beohm, Jr., of Philippi, West Virginia, was sentenced to 64 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Beohm, age 43, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in April 2018. Beohm, who was previously convicted of two felonies in Barbour County Circuit Court, admitted to having a .40 caliber pistol, a .380 caliber pistol, a .410 caliber derringer, and a 12-gauge shotgun. The crime occurred in August 2015 in Barbour County.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Barbour County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Gregory Smith, of Philippi, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months incarceration for possessing a stolen firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Smith, age 54, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm” in June 2018. Smith admitted to having a stolen .22-caliber derringer in January 2018 in Barbour County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
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.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Tyler County residents admit to drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Shawn Hartline and Rachel A. Cook, both of Sistersville, West Virginia, have admitted to a drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hartline, age 34, and Cook, age 28, each pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Hartline and Cook admitted to distributing crystal methamphetamine in Tyler County in November 2017.
Hartline and Cook each face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., and Shawn M. Adkins are prosecuting the cases 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 over the Hartline hearing.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided over the Cook hearing.
Two Mineral County men sentenced for drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Jordan Foster, of Piedmont, West Virginia, and Brandon Suter, of Keyser, West Virginia, have were sentenced today for drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Foster, age 22, was sentenced to eight months incarceration. Foster pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride” in March 2018. Foster admitted to distributing cocaine hydrochloride in August 2017 in Mineral County.
Suter, age 26, was sentenced today to three years probation. Suter pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Hydrochloride” in March 2018. Suter admitted to assisting Foster in possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride in August 2017 in Mineral County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Philadelphia man and Wheeling man admit to drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – James R. Stewart, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Deion J. Jones, of Wheeling, West Virginia, have admitted to a drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Stewart, also known as James R. Steward, Jr., age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine.” Stewart admitted to selling cocaine in Ohio County in November 2017.
Jones, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” Jones admitted to selling oxycodone in Ohio County in June 2015.
Stewart and Jones each face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the cases 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.
Monongalia County man sentenced for illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Wilbur Higginbotham, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months incarceration for illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Higginbotham, age 51, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in March 2018. Higginbotham, having previously been convicted of heroin and illegal firearms charges in U.S. District Court and drug charges in Prince George’s County Maryland Circuit Court, admitted to having a .22 caliber firearm in Harrison County in December 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. 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 Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Jefferson County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Tyler Hall, of Ranson, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years probation for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hall, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Drug User in Possession of a Firearm – Aiding and Abetting” in March 2018. Hall admitted to illegally possessing a Taurus 38 Special handgun. The crime occurred in September 2015 in Jefferson County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Delaware man sentenced for cigarette smugglingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Virginia business owner was sentenced today for unlawful cigarette smuggling, First Assistant United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced today.
Charanjit Singh, also known as Tony Chawla, age 61, of Wilmington, Delaware, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration, and was ordered to pay a $30,000 fine, and ordered to forfeit $14,270,582.00. Singh pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Traffic in Untaxed Cigarettes” in September 2017. Singh admitted to conspiring to profit from the unlawful sale of contraband cigarettes.
Singh is an owner of American Cigarette Outlet, Inc., in Clearbrook, Virginia, which did business as Virginia Cigarette Outlet, Clearbrook Cigarettes, and Discount Cigarettes of King George. Singh admitted to transporting large quantities of 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 Stein prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. Homeland Security Investigations, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, the Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office, the West Virginia State Police, and the New York City Sheriff's Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Clarksburg man sentenced for role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Colton Justice Kallel, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for his role in a drug distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Kallel, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Fentanyl in Proximity of a Protected Location” in March 2018. Kallel admitted to selling fentanyl on July 11, 2017 in Harrison County. He also admitted to selling fentanyl near Clarksburg City Park, on July 31, 2017 in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force and the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Berkeley County man sentenced to nearly six years for cocaine chargeRead the Press Release
MARTISNBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Jacque Severe, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 71 months incarceration for distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Severe, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base” in February 2018. Severe conspired with others to distribute crack cocaine in Berkeley County from April 2015 to February 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Berkeley County man sentenced to 15 years for fentanyl distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Bradley Markley, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 180 months incarceration for distributing fentanyl, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
“Fentanyl kills. A lethal dose is only two milligrams—about the mass of two grains of salt. Unfortunately, the entrance of fentanyl into the opioid crisis has only exasperated the dangers to our community. The dangers extend to law enforcement who risk their own lives by mere exposure to fentanyl. Our prosecutors have made fentanyl cases a priority, and we will be adding additional resources to combat the increased workload. The dangers to our community are real and our efforts will be unrelenting,” said Powell.
Markley, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl and Acetyl Fentanyl” in March 2018. Markley admitted to distributing the drugs in October 2016 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Z. Krasinski and Lara K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County man sentenced for sex offender registry violationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Gregory Keith Parr, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to nine months incarceration for a sex offender registration violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Parr, age 61, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Register” in April 2018. Parr, who had previously been convicted of a sex offense in Michigan, admitted to traveling across state lines without updating his sex offender registration, as required by law, in December 2017 in Berkeley County.
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 Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Neal Krieger, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 50 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Krieger, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Transfer of a Firearm” in March 2018. He admitted to selling a machine gun conversion part designed to convert a weapon into a machine gun for $2900 in May 2017 in Berkeley County.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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 Paul T. Camilletti 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 Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Clarksburg man sentenced for his role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Jordan Michael Conaway, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months incarceration for his role in a drug distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Conaway, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl in Proximity of a Protected Location” in March 2018. Conaway admitted to selling fentanyl on April 17, 2017 near Clarksburg City Park in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force and the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Illegal aliens indicted on reentry chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three illegal aliens were indicted today by a federal grand jury reentry charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jose Neftali Salazar-Lemus, a citizen of El Salvador, age 29, is charged with one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien.” Salazar-Lemus, having previously been removed from the United States, is accused of being in Berkeley County illegally in July 2018.
Eduardo Hernandez Sanchez, also known as Jorge Andrade-Sanchez, a citizen of Mexico, age 42, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien.” Sanchez, having previously been removed twice, and previously convicted of drug distribution in Pennsylvania in 2016, is accused of being in Berkeley County illegally in February 2018.
Miguel Angel Cruz-Polanco, a citizen of El Salvador, age 34, is charged with one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien.” Cruz-Polanco, having previously been removed from the United States three times, once following a felony drug and firearms conviction in the Northern District of West Virginia in 2008, is accused of being in Berkeley County illegally in February 2018.
Salazar-Lemus faces up to two years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Sanchez and Cruz-Polanco each face 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Fairmont man sentenced for firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dustin Lynn Garrison, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months incarceration for illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Garrison, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in March 2018. Garrison, having previously been convicted of two felonies in the Circuit Court of Marion County, illegally possessed a .308 semi-automatic pistol in September 2017 in Marion County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives and the Fairmont Police Department investigated. The United State Marshal Service assisted.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.