Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Eastern Panhandle man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Raymond Hoak, of Kearnysville, West Virginia, was indicted today by a federal grand jury on a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hoak, age 42, is charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Hoak, having previously been convicted of a felony, is accused of having five .22-caliber rifles, a .22-250 rifle, a .300-caliber rifle, a .380-caliber pistol, and another rifle in June 2018 in Jefferson County.
Hoak 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 Anna Z. Krasinski is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Berkeley County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Douglas Mills, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, has admitted to a cocaine distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Mills, also known as “D,” age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Mills admitted to selling cocaine in Berkeley County in August 2015.
Mills faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Martinsburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Michigan residents sentenced for roles in oxycodone distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Darmatrice Love and Kenyata Boudreaux, both of Detroit Michigan, have been sentenced for their roles in a drug distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Love, age 33, was sentenced today to 135 months incarceration. Boudreaux, age 42, was sentenced today to 24 months probation. Love and Boudreaux each pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises” in March 2018. Love and Boudreaux admitted to managing an apartment on Riddle Avenue in Morgantown, West Virginia, to distribute oxycodone. The crime occurred from October 2016 to March 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, led the investigation. The Task Force consists of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, Morgantown Police Department, the Star City Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia University Police Department, the Granville Police Department, and the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
The investigation was funded 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 Irene M. Keeley presided.
Tyler County woman and Wetzel County man admit to connection to a drug distribution operation in Wetzel and Tyler CountiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – John M. Talkington, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, and Miranda Stewart, of Sistersville, West Virginia, have admitted to their roles in a methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution operation that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Talkington, age 29, and Stewart, age 23, each pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.” Talkington and Stewart 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.
Talkington and Stewart 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Berkeley County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Bradley Allen Bowers, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Bowers, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of an Unregistered Firearm.” Bowers admitted to having an unregistered 12-gauge sawed-off shotgun in May 2017 in Berkeley County.
Bowers 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Martinsburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Wheeling man admits to drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Tysaun A. Pugh, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pugh, also known as “Chubbs,” age 20, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Pugh admitted to selling heroin near Jensen Playground in January 2018 in Ohio County.
Pugh faces up 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.Wetzel County residents admit their roles in a drug distribution operation in Wetzel and Tyler CountiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Wilson Longwell, of Littleton, West Virginia, and Haley Weigle, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, have admitted to their roles in a methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution operation that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Longwell, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.” Longwell admitted to conspiring with others to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base from 2016 to April 2018 in Wetzel County and other locations in the southern district of West Virginia, Ohio, and Georgia.
Weigle, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Weigle admitted to distributing heroin in June 2017 in Wetzel County.
Longwell and Weigle 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Harrison County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael A. Spino, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Spino, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Spino, having been previously convicted of two felonies, admitted to having an unregistered 12-gauge sawed-off shotgun in January 2018 in Harrison County.
Spino 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia Probation Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Lee Starkey, Jr., of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Starkey, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Starkey, having been previously convicted of a felony, admitted to having a .22-caliber revolver in March 2018 in Harrison County.
Starkey 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 Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia Probation Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Tyler County man admits to selling methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles C. Williamson, of Sistersville, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Williamson, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Williamson admitted to selling methamphetamine in November of 2017 in Tyler 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. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting 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. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Two illegal aliens admit to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men in the United States illegally have admitted to drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hsun Jung Chang, age 29, and Shougi Li, age 24, each pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribute Marijuana.” The men admitted to possessing marijuana in Ohio County in May 2018.
Each defendant 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 Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Wheeling man admits to wire fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Eugene Robert LeClear, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to wire fraud, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
LeClear, age 46, pled guilty to one count of “Wire Fraud.” LeClear admitted to defrauding others out of more than $100,000 from August 2016 to December 2017 in Ohio County.
LeClear 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 Randolph J. Bernard is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.U.S Attorney Bill Powell announces Operation Synthetic Opioid surge (S.O.S.) in Berkeley CountyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG – United States Attorney Bill Powell is applauding Attorney General Jeff Sessions and the creation of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.), which, in the Northern District of West Virginia, will focus on a surge in prosecutions of those distributing fentanyl and other synthetic opioids in Berkeley County. Berkeley County saw the highest rate of overdose deaths in the district in 2017.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced S.O.S. this week, a new program that seeks to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas and to identify wholesale distribution networks and international and domestic suppliers.
As part of Operation S.O.S., the Department will launch an enforcement surge in ten districts with some of the highest drug overdose death rates. Each participating United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) will choose a specific county and prosecute every readily provable case involving the distribution of fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and other synthetic opioids, regardless of drug quantity. The surge will involve a coordinated DEA Special Operations Division operation to insure that leads from street-level cases are used to identify larger scale distributors. Operation S.O.S. was inspired by a promising initiative of the United States Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of Florida involving Manatee County, Florida.
"We at the Department of Justice are going to dismantle these deadly fentanyl distribution networks. Simply put, we will be tireless until we reduce the number of overdose deaths in this country. We are going to focus on some of the worst counties for opioid overdose deaths in the United States, working all cases until we have disrupted the supply of these deadly drugs," Attorney General Sessions said. "In 2016, synthetic opioids killed more Americans than any other kind of drug. Three milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal--that's not even enough to cover up Lincoln's face on a penny. Our prosecutors in Manatee County, Florida have shown that prosecuting seemingly small synthetic opioids cases can have a big impact and save lives, and we want to replicate their success in the districts that need it most. Operation S.O.S.—and the new prosecutors who will help carry it out—will help us put more traffickers behind bars and keep the American people safe from the threat of these deadly drugs."
“One overdose death is too many. Our district has had way too many overdose deaths. I thank Attorney General Sessions for providing additional resources to combat the opioid overdose crisis. The Eastern Panhandle of our district has been particularly hard hit by opioid deaths, and we will do everything we can to prosecute all those who don’t give a second thought to distributing incredibly potent drugs like fentanyl to our citizens. We will have zero tolerance for those engaging in such conduct,” said Powell.
In addition, the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Executive Office will send an additional two-year term Assistant United States Attorney to each participating district to assist with drug-related prosecutions.
The ten participating districts are:
• Eastern District of California
• Eastern District of Kentucky
• District of Maine
• District of New Hampshire
• Northern District of Ohio
• Southern District of Ohio
• Western District of Pennsylvania
• Eastern District of Tennessee
• Northern District of West Virginia
• Southern District of West VirginiaBerkeley County saw 54 overdose deaths in 2017, a drop from 88 in 2016, according to the WV Health Statistics Center.
Harrison County man admits to his role in a heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Hunter Queen, of Nutter Fort, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Queen, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Queen admitted to distributing heroin from January to May 2016 in various locations in Harrison County, including near Simpson Elementary School.
Queen is facing up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the conspiracy charge, and he faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for the aiding and abetting 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Tyler County woman admits to selling methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Brea M. Saeger, of Sistersville, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Saeger, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Saeger admitted to selling methamphetamine in November of 2017 in Tyler County.
Saeger 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 Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Marion County man indicted on drugs and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William A. Six, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was indicted today by a federal grand jury on charges of heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine distribution and firearms violations, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Six, age 27, is charged with one count of “Distribution of Heroin,” two counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base,” two counts of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm,” two counts of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,” one count of Possession of a Firearm in a School Zone,” and one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Six is accused of selling heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine in Marion County in August and September 2017. Six, having previously been convicted of two felonies, is also accused of having a 12-gauge shotgun, and a semi-automatic rifle, both believed to be stolen, 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 each of the drug charges. Six faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the stolen firearms charge and the unlawful possession of a firearms 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Lewis County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Roger Lee Clem, II, aka “Woody,” of Weston, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Clem, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” Clem admitted to having a stolen .45-caliber pistol in Lewis County in October 2016.
Clem 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 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.Harrison County man admits to methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Jacob Renard White, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
White, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Methamphetamine.” White admitted to distributing methamphetamine in February of 2017 in Harrison County.
White 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 Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to selling methamphetamineRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeremiah R. Dodrill, of Spelter, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Dodrill, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Dodrill admitted to selling methamphetamine in February of 2017 in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Maryland man admits to counterfeit chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Barry Eugene Dragovich, of Cumberland, Maryland, has admitted to a counterfeit charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Dragovich, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Uttering Counterfeit Obligations and Securities.” Dragovich admitted to passing counterfeit bills in May 2017 in Harrison County.
Dragovich 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 United States Secret Service and the Clarksburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Wheeling woman sentenced for lying to the US MarshalsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Melinda Ray McCardle, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years probation for making a false statement, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
McCardle, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement to a Federal Agent” in April 2018. McCardle admitted to lying to a Deputy U.S. Marshal about the whereabouts of Deandre Davis, a fugitive wanted for murder. The crime occurred in August 2017 in Brooke County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service, the Mountain State Fugitive Task Force, and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.
Upshur County man sentenced for his role in an oxycodone distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Moriarty, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for distributing oxycodone, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Moriarty, age 25, pled guilty to “Distribution of Oxycodone” in January 2018. Moriarty admitted to selling oxycodone in June 2015 in Upshur County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, led the investigation, which was initiated as an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. The Task Force consists of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, Morgantown Police Department, the Star City Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia University Police Department, the Granville Police Department, and the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.U.S Attorney thanks law students for summer internshipsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The United States Attorney’s office had the opportunity to employ four interns this summer. The law students assisted in the Wheeling, Clarksburg, and Martinsburg offices in the criminal and civil divisions.
“Our district greatly benefited from the work of our student interns this summer. It is always great to have smart young law students work with us. They provide valuable research, written products and fresh insights. They also have the opportunity to see the judicial process and our lawyers in action. We all benefit from such experiences,” said United States Attorney, Bill Powell.
Samantha Berry is from Moundsville, West Virginia. She graduated from West Virginia University in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and a minor in Law & Legal Studies. Samantha is a rising second year law student at West Virginia University College of Law. She assisted in the Wheeling office.
Lakyn Cecil is from New Martinsville, West Virginia. She graduated from WVU in the spring of 2017 as Cum Laude with her Bachelors of Arts in Criminology and a double minor in Forensic and Investigative Science and Biology. Cecil went on to attend WVU College of Law in the fall of 2017. She also assisted in the Wheeling office.
Tim Dudley is from Utah where he earned a Bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University. He is currently studying law at Pepperdine University. Tim is assisting in the Martinsburg office.
Jeremy Bumgardner is from Bridgeport, West Virginia. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Recording Industry Management and Commercial Songwriting from Middle Tennessee State. He is currently a rising 3L at WVU College of Law. Jeremy is assisting in the Clarksburg office.
The internships included an inside look at the federal judicial system and the federal and state corrections system.
Virginia man admits to cigarette smuggling chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Udayappan Subramanian, of Haymarket, Virginia has admitted to unlawful cigarette smuggling, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced today.
Subramanian, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Trafficking of Contraband Cigarettes.” 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.
Subramanian faces up to five years in prison 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 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Stein is prosecuting 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 led the inquiry.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Two Maryland residents found guilty of heroin distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kelvin Johnson, of Baltimore, Maryland and Sykebia Stewart, of Dundalk, Maryland were found guilty today by a federal jury on heroin distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
After four hours of deliberation, a jury found Johnson, age 25, and Stewart, age 25, guilty on all counts. Johnson was found guilty of one count of “Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin Resulting in Death,” and Stewart is guilty of one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin Resulting in Death.” Johnson and Stewart distributed heroin in May 2016 in Berkeley County, resulting in death.
“I want to thank the jury for their service. This case once again tells the tragic story involving heroin and death. The story is told all too often. The prosecution team worked very hard, the jury did its duty, and the court will ultimately sentence these defendants. While neither the verdict nor sentence will bring the victims back, justice will be served. We will continue to aggressively prosecute all those who engage in deadly criminal conduct in our district,” said Powell.
Johnson faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the “Distribution of Heroin” conviction. Johnson and Stewart each face incarceration of not less than twenty years or more than life, and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin Resulting in Death” conviction. 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 Anna Z. Krasinski and Traci M. Cook prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Marion County man admits to taking mail, ordered to pay back victimRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Mitchell Jay Haught, of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to obstructing mail, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Haught, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Obstruction of Mails.” Haught admitted to taking a $500 Visa gift card after it was deposited for mail and before it was delivered to its intended recipient. The crime occurred January 27, 2017 in Marion County.
Haught was sentenced to 12 months probation and ordered to pay $500 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
New Hampshire woman sentenced for identity fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Stephanie Lee Kenyon , of Manchester, New Hampshire, was sentenced today to 21 months incarceration for identity fraud, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Kenyon, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Identity Fraud” in April 2018. Kenyon admitted to possessing 13 fraudulent driver’s licenses. The crime occurred in May 2017 in Ohio County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David L. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Wheeling Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.
Wheeling man sentenced for firearms violationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Eban Joseph Keith Beyah, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 51 months incarceration for unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Beyah, age 45, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in February 2018. Beyah, having previously been convicted of burglary and several drug-related charges in Commons Pleas Court in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, admitted to possessing a 9mm pistol in Ohio County on June 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 Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Wheeling man sentenced for failing to register as sex offenderRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph J. Weidman, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years probation for failing to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Weidman, 51, failed to register and update his registration as a sex offender in Ohio County, West Virginia, after having moved from Massachusetts in May, 2016. Weidman is required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act by reason of a conviction under state law.
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 Steven L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Morgantown woman admits to heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Lori Murphy, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to 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.” Murphy admitted to distributing heroin near North Elementary School in April of 2017 in Monongalia County.
Murphy 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. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Illegal aliens admit to reentry chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Mexican nationals have admitted to a reentry of a removed alien charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Juan Mendez-Patishtan, age 34, and Filberto Reyes-Vazquez, age 49, each pled guilty to one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien.” Mendez-Patishtan admitted to reentering the United States illegally after being removed six separate times from 2010 to 2016. Reyes-Vazquez is accused of reentering the United States illegally after being removed in May 2016. The men were found in Harrison County in April 2018.
Mendez-Patishtan faces up to two 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.
Reyes-Vazquez was sentenced to time served and one year supervised release.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided over the plea hearings.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided over the sentencing.
Upshur County man indicted on drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Marlin E. Beckner, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was indicted today by a federal grand jury on methamphetamine distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Beckner, age 44, is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Beckner is accused of 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Department of Defense employees indicted on embezzlement chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Sergeant First Class Shane Morgan with the West Virginia Army National Guard and Master Sergeant (retired) Russell Morgan were indicted today by a federal grand jury on charges related to the embezzlement and unlawful sale of government property, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Shane Morgan, age 35, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, and Russell Morgan, age 61, of Helvetia, West Virginia, are each charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Embezzle Government Property,” and one count of “Embezzlement of Government Property.” Shane is also charged with one count of “Unauthorized Sale of Government Property” and one count of “False Written Statement.”
The two men are accused of stealing at least 80 items of United States government property worth an estimated total of more than $80,000. The indictment further alleges that the men obtained access to this property through their official positions at the United States Property and Fiscal Office warehouse in Buckhannon. The crimes took place from August 2010 to October 2017 in Upshur County.
Both men face up to five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the conspiracy charge and up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the embezzlement charge. Shane Morgan also faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the unauthorized sale charge, and up to five years incarceration and a fine of $250,000 fine for the false written statement 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia Army National Guard and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Tucker County man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard Lee Hollobaugh, of Parsons, West Virginia, was indicted today by a federal grand jury on a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hollobaugh, age 33, is charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Hollobaugh, having previously been convicted of four felonies, is accused of possessing a 9mm pistol in October 2017 in Randolph County.
Hollobaugh faces up to 10 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives and the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Randolph County man indicted in connection to destructive devicesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert C. Ard, of Elkins, West Virginia, was indicted today by a federal grand jury on charges related to two homemade explosive devices found in his home, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ard, age 54, is charged with one count of “Making an Unlawful Firearm” and one count of “Possession of Unregistered Firearm.” Ard is accused of making a firearm, that is a destructive device, and possessing a destructive device that wasn’t registered with the National Firearms Registry.
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 fine 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 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Marion County man sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas Keener, II, of Fairmont, West Virginia was sentenced today to nine months incarceration for a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Keener, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility” in October 2017. Keener admitted to using a phone to distribute and assist in a conspiracy to distribute oxycodone in Monongalia County in February 2017.
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.
Marion County man indicted on drug chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Fairmont, West Virginia man was indicted today by a federal grand jury on a methamphetamine distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Fredrick L. Chapman, also known as “Fred L. Chapman” and “Freddie,” age 61, is charged with one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Chapman is accused of possessing methamphetamine in Marion County in May of 2018.
The United States is also seeking forfeiture of $37,829 as proceeds derived directly or indirectly from the alleged crime.
Chapman 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Lewis County man indicted on drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – John David Davisson, of Weston, West Virginia, was indicted today by a federal grand jury on firearms and methamphetamine distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Davisson, age 27, is charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,” one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Carry a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime,” and one count of “Obliterated Serial Number.” Davisson is accused of possessing a .45-caliber pistol and two 9mm pistols while possessing crystal methamphetamine, also known as ice, in October 2017 in Lewis County. The .45-caliber pistol was allegedly stolen, and one of the 9mm pistols had an obliterated serial number.
Davisson faces up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the carry during a drug crime count, 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the methamphetamine count, up to 10 years and a fine of $250,000 fine for each of the remaining 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives and the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Illegal alien indicted on reentry chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Alejandro Ascencio-Sotelo, a citizen of Mexico, was indicted today by a federal grand jury on an illegal reentry charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ascencio-Sotelo, age 30, is charged with one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Ascnecio-Sotelo is accused of illegally being in Weirton, West Virginia in June 2018 after being removed from Brownsville, Texas in 2008.
Ascencio-Sotelo faces up to two years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The 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.
Berkeley County man sentenced to five years for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Travis Jerome Robinson, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years incarceration for possessing a firearm during a drug crime, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Robinson, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Possessing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime” in March 2018. Robinson admitted to having a .40-caliber handgun while possessing and intending to distribute heroin in May 2017 in Jefferson County, West Virginia.
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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Pittsburgh man admits to heroin chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher A. Cobbs, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Cobbs, also known as “Bro-Bro,” age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Cobbs admitted to selling heroin in July 2015 in Harrison County.
Cobbs faces up 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, are investigating.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.Moundsville man sentenced for marijuana distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher M. Delauder, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for distributing marijuana, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Delauder, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Marijuana” in February 2017. In April 2016, Delauder distributed a significant amount of marijuana in Marshall County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Maryland woman sentenced for selling cocaineRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shelley Kay Snyder-Windle, of Westernport, Maryland, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Snyder-Windle, age 54, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine” in March 2018. Snyder-Windle admitted to selling cocaine in October 2016 in Mineral County.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Grant, also with the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force and the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Martinsburg man sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles Leroy Palmer, III, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for distributing heroin, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Palmer, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin” in March 2018. Palmer admitted to distributing more than 100 grams of heroin in June 2017 in Berkeley County.
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 case was investigated by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Martinsburg City Police Department.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Jefferson County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Edwin Rogers, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 63 months incarceration for a firearms violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Rogers, age 28, who had previously been convicted of a felony offense in Jefferson County, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He pled guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in March 2018. The crime occurred on April 27, 2016 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 Anna Z. Krasinski 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.
Jefferson County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Adam Joseph Plauche, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for selling a stolen firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Plauche, age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Possession and Sale of Stolen Firearm” in March 2018. Plauche admitted to having a stolen firearm and shipping it across state lines in September 2015 in Jefferson County, West Virginia.
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 investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Hancock County man sentenced for child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Dziatkowicz, of Weirton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for possessing child pornography, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Dziatkowicz, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography” in March 2018. Dziatkowicz admitted to having child pornography in February 2015 in Hancock County, West Virginia.
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 Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.
Berkeley County man sentenced to more than 12 years for selling heroinRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - DeMarco Davis, Jr., also known as “Tipp,” of Inwood, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 151 months incarceration for a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Davis, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” in March 2018. Davis admitted to selling heroin in January 2017 in Berkeley County.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.U.S. Attorney in Washington for World Elder Abuse DayRead the Press Release
Courtesy: Department of Justice Office of Public Affairs Pictured L-R are: Attorney General Jeff Sessions, , Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Stephen Censky, and Tony Roman of Martinsburg, WVMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – United States Attorney Bill Powell is working to shed light on elder fraud in rural communities.
Powell, along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher, attended an event to recognize World Elder Abuse Day at the Department of Justice Robert F. Kennedy Building’s Great Hall in Washington, D.C. this afternoon. Tony Roman of Martinsburg, a victim of elder fraud in the Northern District of West Virginia, delivered a statement on behalf of himself and other victims.
“With nearly 20 percent of West Virginia’s population 65 or older, our district is especially susceptible to elder fraud cases. We want to send a clear message that we will prosecute those who prey on some our state’s most vulnerable,” said Powell.
Elder fraud can happen to anyone anytime, as victim Tony Roman explained at the event, “I – we –were not victims of a phone scam or a lottery scam, as many times we hear about in the news. I became a victim by simply going to the doctor, as most Americans do every year.”
In Mr. Roman’s case, prosecuted by Omps-Botteicher, those convicted stole identifying information from a medical facility and used that information to create fake driver’s licenses to obtain credit cards and other accounts to defraud.
Wanda Keebler, a retired school teacher, was also defrauded by the same defendants that defrauded Roman. When this case came to light, her husband was dying. She admits her focus wasn’t on her bank accounts, it was on her husband and the medical care he was receiving from the same hospital from which her information was stolen. When she was notified that she was a victim, she was extremely upset. She said, “I was school teacher for 35 years, and for the first time, I felt like an idiot.”
The message sent at today’s event was that it is easy to fall victim to those preying on the elderly. All residents should monitor their financial accounts and credit consistently. Always report any suspicious activity.
The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and Department of Agriculture (USDA) are forming a working group to focus on ways to empower and to support rural and tribal communities to combat elder abuse and financial exploitation.
Ohio County man admits to cocaine chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin J. Pugh, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pugh, age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Pugh is accused of selling cocaine near Bloch Playground in October 2017 in Ohio County.
Pugh faces up 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, are investigating. The United States Marshals Service made the arrest.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.