Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Taylor County man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Alexander D. Barnett, of Flemington, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Barnett, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin.” Barnett admitted to selling heroin in March 2016 in Harrison County.
Barnett 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 Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Steubenville, Ohio man sentenced to more than six years for firearm chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas Bennett, of Steubenville, Ohio, was sentenced today to 76 months incarceration for unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Bennett, age 42, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in May of 2018. Bennett, having previously been convicted of drug possession in Commons Pleas Court in Jefferson County, Ohio in 2017, admitted to possessing a 9mm pistol in Ohio County on August 12, 2017.
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.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Martinsburg man admits to illegal ammunition chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Gary Owen Jones, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to an illegal possession of ammunition charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jones, age 46, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Ammunition.” Jones, who was previously convicted of a felony in the Circuit Court of Berkeley County, possessed more than 1,100 rounds of ammunition in February of 2018 in Berkeley County.
Jones 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.
Harrison County man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Dent, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, has admitted to illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Dent, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Dent, who had previously been convicted of crimes in New Jersey, admitted to having a 9mm caliber pistol in May 2017 in Harrison County.
Dent 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Bridgeport Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Berkeley County woman admits to cocaine chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia woman has admitted to distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jessica Marie Shifflett, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Shifflett admitted to conspiring with others to distribute crack cocaine in Berkeley County from April 2015 to February 2017.
Shifflett 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 K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney recognize law enforcement service and sacrifice during national police weekRead the Press Release
WHEELING – Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia Bill Powell recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, and commented on the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report.
West Virginia lost one officer in 2017. Lieutenant Aaron Crook of the Bluefield Police Department was killed in a vehicle crash while involved in a vehicle pursuit of a suspected drunk driver last May.
In recognition of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Powell will recognize those lives lost and offer words of encouragement and gratitude at the Wheeling Police Department’s Law Enforcement Memorial Service this Wednesday, May 16 at Wheeling’s Heritage Port. The event begins at 5:30 p.m.
“One officer death is too many,” Attorney General Sessions said. “While we are inexpressibly grateful to have had a decrease in the number of officers killed in the line-of-duty last year, the number is still far too high. At the Department of Justice, we honor the memories of the fallen and we pray for their families. We are also following President Trump's Executive Orders to back the women and men in blue, to enhance law enforcement safety, and to reduce violent crime in America. Those priorities will help keep every American safe, including those who risk their lives for us. As always, we have their backs and they have our thanks.”
“Every loss is significant. The men and women in law enforcement choose to put their lives on the line every day in the name of safety and security for their fellow neighbors. It is many times a thankless job involving long hours away from their loved ones. There are no words that can truly express our gratitude for their service and sacrifice,” said Powell.
According to statistics collected by the FBI, 93 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2017 – a 21 percent decrease from 2016 when 118 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents.
Additionally, in 2017 there were 46 law enforcement officers killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts – this is a 30 percent decrease from 2016, when 66 law enforcement officer were killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts.
For the full comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks and selected assaults resulting in injury, please see the 2017 edition of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, released this week.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
During Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 13 to Saturday, May 19, 2018, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
To access the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov.
Harrison County man sentenced to nearly six years for illegal firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Scott Nestor, of Shinnston, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 70 months incarceration for unlawfully possessing a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Nestor, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in January 2018. Nestor, having previously been convicted of a felony in Harrison County Circuit Court, admitted to possessing a 9mm caliber pistol. The crime occurred in May 2017 in Harrison 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 Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Pennsylvania and West Virginia residents indicted for heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jalisa L. Hawkins, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, appeared this week before a federal magistrate judge to face charges involving a heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hawkins is one of nine named defendants facing heroin distribution charges after being indicted on March 6, 2018 by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg. Those named in the 20-count indictment include:
- Jalisa L. Hawkins, also known as “Ashley,” age 28, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania
- Chad Juan M. Neal, also known as “CJ,” age 24, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania
- Hunter Queen, age 22, of Nutter Fort, West Virginia
- Alexander D. Barnett, age 23, of Flemington, West Virginia
- David W. Lipscomb, age 35, of Bridgeport, West Virginia
- Stephen R. Mitchell, Jr., age 35, of Clarksburg, West Virginia
- Alexandra D. Coffman Mitchell, also known as “Alli,” age 25, of Clarksburg, West Virginia
- David C. Chalfant, age 25, of Bridgeport, West Virginia
- Brian K. Griffey, age 48, of Monongah, West Virginia
The indictment charges each of the defendants with conspiring to distribute heroin in Harrison County, West Virginia and elsewhere from January 2016 to May 2016.
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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Morgan County woman admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Megan Renee Bohrer, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, has admitted to a stolen firearm charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Bohrer, age 25, pled guilty one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” Bohrer admitted to possessing a stolen .38 caliber revolver in September 2017 in Berkeley County.
Bohrer 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, the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Hampshire County man admits to sex offender registry violationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony Dale Helton, of High View, West Virginia, has admitted to a sex offender registration violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Helton, age 50, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Register.” Helton, who had previously been convicted of a sex offense in South Carolina, admitted to traveling across state lines without updating his sex offender registration, as required by law, in November and December 2017 in Hampshire County.
Helton 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 United States Marshals Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Marion County woman admits to taking mail, ordered to pay back victimRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rochelle Pernell, of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to obstructing mail, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pernell, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Obstruction of Mails.” Pernell 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.
Pernell was sentenced to 12 months probation and ordered to pay $790.00 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.
Eastern Panhandle residents admit to drug and firearm chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg man and a Kearneysville woman have admitted to federal charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lante Jerrel Cook, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Cook admitted to possessing crack cocaine in October 2017 in Berkeley County.
Tiffany Rosalind Cole, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Possession of Stolen Firearm.” Cole admitted to having a stolen .9mm caliber pistol in October 2017 in Berkeley County.
Cook faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Cole 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 cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacoo, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Virginia man sentenced to 20 years for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin L. Navarro, of Berryville, Virginia, was sentenced this week to 240 months incarceration for methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Navarro, age 24, was sentenced today to 240 months incarceration, to run consecutively with any other federal or state sentence. Navarro, 24, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine - Aiding and Abetting” in September 2017. He admitted to conspiring with another person to distribute methamphetamine in Hardy County, West Virginia in October 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Lewis County woman sentenced for her role in an oxycodone distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Makyna Kancso, of Crawford, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 15 months incarceration for distributing oxycodone, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Kancso, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone” in September 2017. She admitted to distributing oxycodone in Upshur County in June 2015.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Grant County man sentenced to nearly six years for meth distribution and a firearm violationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marvin Ellis Grubb, Jr., of Maysville, West Virginia, was sentenced this week to 70 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine and illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Grubb, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in March 2018. Grubb admitted to distributing more than 50 grams methamphetamine. He also admitted to illegally possessing a .357 caliber pistol. The crimes occurred in August 2016 in Grant 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 case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Five Pennsylvania physicians charged with unlawfully distributing buprenorphine and defrauding Medicare and MedicaidRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Five physicians of Redirections Treatment Advocates, LLC, an opioid addiction treatment practice with offices in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, have been indicted on charges of unlawfully dispensing controlled substances and health care fraud, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady of the Western District of Pennsylvania and United States Attorney William J. Powell of the Northern District of West Virginia announced today. These indictments represent the latest in a series of charges filed since Attorney General Sessions announced the formation of the Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, a Department of Justice initiative that uses data to target and prosecute individuals that commit opioid-related health care fraud.
The defendants named in the indictments are:
- Dr. Krishan Kumar Aggarwal, 73, of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, a contractor at RTA in Weirton, West Virginia;
- Dr. Madhu Aggarwal, 68, of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, a contractor at RTA in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania;
- Dr. Parth Bharill, 69, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a contractor at RTA in Morgantown, West Virginia;
- Dr. Cherian John, 65, of Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, a contractor at RTA in Weirton, West Virginia; and
- Dr. Michael Bummer, 38, of Sewickley, Pennsylvania, a contractor at RTA in Washington, Pennsylvania.
According to the indictments, Redirections Treatment Advocates, LLC, operates Suboxone clinics in several locations in western Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia. The indictments allege that the defendants, working as contractors at various locations, created and distributed unlawful prescriptions for buprenorphine, known as Subutex and Suboxone, a drug that should be used to treat individuals with addiction. The defendants are also charged with conspiracy to unlawfully distribute buprenorphine. Finally, the defendants are charged with health care fraud for allegedly causing fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicare or Medicaid for payments to cover the costs of the unlawfully prescribed buprenorphine.
“Today we are facing the worst drug crisis in American history, with one American dying of a drug overdose every nine minutes,” said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. “It's incredible but true that some of our trusted medical professionals have chosen to violate their oaths and exploit this crisis for profit. Last summer, I sent a dozen of our top federal prosecutors to focus solely on the problem of opioid-related health care fraud in places where the epidemic was at its worst-including Western Pennsylvania. These cases cut off the supply of drugs and stop fraudsters from exploiting vulnerable people. Our prosecutors began issuing indictments back in October, and today we bring even more charges against those who allegedly defrauded the taxpayer while diverting potentially addictive drugs. I want to thank our dedicated AUSAs Robert Cessar and Sarah Wagner, FBI, DEA, our U.S. Attorneys’ offices, FDA, the HHS and Veterans Affairs Inspectors General, IRS, our Postal Inspectors, and all of our state and local partners for their hard work on these cases."
“Expanding the legitimate use of medication to treat addiction is a critical part of this Administration’s multi-faceted approach to combat the opioid epidemic ravaging our communities,” stated U.S. Attorney Brady. “Yet another vital component is the prosecution of unscrupulous practitioners who abuse their privilege to practice medicine and dispense prescriptions unlawfully. These indictments demonstrate that we remain vigilant in our pursuit of physicians who ignore their oath to do no harm.”
“We remain unwavering in our efforts to combat those who violate drug laws and thereby contribute to the crisis of addiction. I have made clear that a medical degree provides you no protection from prosecution. We will persevere,” added U.S. Attorney Powell.
For each of the defendants, the law provide a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for each of the counts charging unlawfully dispensing Schedule III controlled substances; a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment and a fine of $1 million for each of the counts charging conspiracy to unlawfully dispense a Schedule III controlled substance; and a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 for each of the counts charging health care fraud. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Assistant United States Attorney Sarah E. Wagner of the Northern District of West Virginia are prosecuting these cases on behalf of the United States.
The investigation leading to these indictments was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, which combines personnel and resources from the following agencies to combat the growing prescription opioid epidemic: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Unites States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office - Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration - Office of Criminal Investigations and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Upshur County man sentenced for his role in a stolen firearms and methamphetamine operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Dustin Cain Anderson, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months incarceration for his role in a stolen firearms and meth distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Anderson, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm – Aiding and Abetting” in January 2018. Anderson admitted to conspiring with others to receive, possess, barter, sell, conceal and dispose of 21 firearms in Upshur County in October 2016.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Grant County woman sentenced for her role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – June Catherine Blanchek, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 63 months incarceration for her role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Blanchek, age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” in July 2017. Blanchek admitted to working with others to distribute more than 50 grams of crystal meth in Grant County between September 2014 and December 2016.
A money judgement of $133,000 was also ordered.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Elkins man sentenced for role in counterfeit money schemeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Marc G. Collett, of Elkins, was sentenced today to 21 months incarceration for fraudulently using counterfeit money to obtain authentic currency and other goods, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Collett, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Uttering Counterfeit Obligations or Securities – Aiding and Abetting” in April 2016. Collett conspired with other individuals to repeatedly exchange counterfeit money in order to obtain authentic United States currency, debit cards, and merchandise in Harrison County, West Virginia in late 2014.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service, the Clarksburg, West Virginia Police Department, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Two Illegal Aliens indicted on reentry chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Mexican nationals were indicted by a federal grand jury today on reentry of a removed alien charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Filberto Reyes-Vazquez, age 49, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien.” Reyes-Vazquez is accused of reentering the United States illegally after being removed in May 2016. Reyes-Vazquez was found in Harrison County in April 2018.
Juan Mendez-Patishtan, age 34, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien.” Mendez-Patishtan is accused of reentering the United States illegally after being removed in six separate times from 2010 to 2016. Mendez-Patishtan was found in Harrison County in April 2018.
Each man 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 Traci M. Cook 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.
Randolph County man sentenced for unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Eric Joseph Wilson, Jr., of Coalton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 15 months incarceration for illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Wilson, age 31, admitted to illegally possessing a .32 caliber revolver in May 2016. He pled guilty to “Unlawful Possession of Firearm by Drug Addict” in January 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 D. Warner 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.
Mexican man admits to drug trafficking chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rogelio Martinez-Rojas, of Mexico, has admitted to cocaine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Martinez-Rojas, who had been living in Martinsburg, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine.” Martinez-Rojas admitted to distributing cocaine in October 2017 in Berkeley County.
Martinez-Rojas 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 cases on behalf of the government. 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 investigated. Other agencies assisting 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.
Marion County man indicted on child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Fairmont, West Virginia man was indicted by a federal grand jury today on a child pornography charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
James Timothy Cobb, age 56, was indicted on one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Cobb is accused of possessing child pornography in Marion County in September 2014.
Cobb faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Frank Everett Horner, III, of Clarksburg, West Virginia was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for a firearms violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Horner, age 24, pled guilty to “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Drug User” in November 2017. Horner admitted to possessing a .45-caliber pistol and a .25-caliber pistol in January and February 2017 in Harrison County.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Harrison County man indicted on firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Bridgeport, West Virginia man was indicted by a federal grand jury today on firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Michael A. Spino, age 29, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession of an Unregistered Firearm.” Spino, having been previously convicted of two felonies, is accused of 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 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia Probation Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County man indicted on firearm chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man was indicted by a federal grand jury today on a firearm charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Robert Lee Starkey, Jr., age 24, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Starkey, having been previously convicted of a felony, is accused of having .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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Five people sentenced for roles in a firearms conspiracyRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Five people were sentenced today to a combined 145 months incarceration for their roles in a firearms theft and sale scheme, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Benjamin Tyler Nazelrod, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration. Nazelrod, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess Stolen Firearms” in January 2018. He admitted to conspiring with others to receive, possess, barter, sell, conceal and dispose of 21 firearms in Upshur County in October 2016.
Johnny Lee Riley, age 28, of Ellamore, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration. Ellamore pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearm” in January 2018. Riley admitted to receiving, possessing, bartering, concealing, or selling 10 firearms in Upshur County in October 2016. Riley was also ordered to pay $52,843.97 in restitution.
Bobby Ray Johnson, Jr., age 28, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months incarceration. Johnson pled guilty to one count of “Carry a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime” in January 2018. Johnson admitted to having a .40 caliber pistol during a drug trafficking crime in December 2016 in Upshur County.
Danielle Paige Tanner, age 23, of Glen Allen, Virginia, was sentenced today to 15 months incarceration. Tanner pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess Stolen Firearms” in December 2017. Tanner 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.
Aaron Matthew McLain, age 37, of Volga, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years probation. McLain pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearm - Aiding and Abetting” in January 2018. McLain admitted to receiving, possessing, bartering or selling two firearms in Barbour County in October 2016.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Federal inmate indicted on charges of threats to the PresidentRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal inmate was indicted by a federal grand jury today on charges involving threatening the President of the United States and threatening to blow up the White House, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Nathan Allen Danforth, age 32, a federal inmate at FCI Hazelton, was indicted on two counts of “Threats Against the President” and two counts of “Threats to Damage Buildings by Use of Explosives.” Danforth is accused of mailing letters containing threats to murder the President, cause the President pain, and to watch the President die a slow, painful death. He is also accused of sending mail, threatening to blow up the White House and the federal courthouse in West Palm Beach, Florida, as well as other federal buildings in the United States. The crimes allegedly took place in November 2017.
Danforth faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the building counts, and faces up to five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the threats to the President 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 Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service and Special Investigative Services – USP Hazelton investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
El Salvador man admits to drug trafficking chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jose Santiago Cruz-Delcid, of El Salvador, has admitted to cocaine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Cruz-Delcid, also known as “Trucko” or “Truckito,”, who had been living in Bunker Hill, West Virginia, age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine.” Cruz-Delcid admitted to selling cocaine for $2,200 August 2017 in Berkeley County.
Cruz-Delcid 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 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 investigated. Other agencies assisting 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.
Wheeling Island woman admits to heroin distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Carla Webb Daniels, of Wheeling Island, West Virginia, admitted to distributing heroin near an Ohio County school, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Daniels, age 57, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Daniels admitted to distributing heroin in close proximity to Wheeling Central Catholic High School in Wheeling on February 16, 2017.
Daniels faces up to 40 years incarceration and a $2,000,000 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 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force and the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, HIDTA-funded initiatives, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Upshur County woman admits to role in a stolen firearms conspiracy and sentencedRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Kimberly A. Warner, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in a stolen firearms and methamphetamine operation and was sentenced today to five years probation for her participation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Warner, also known as “Kimmie,” age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess Stolen Firearms.” Warner admitted to being a part of a conspiracy to steal approximately 120 firearms from a cabin in Upshur County, and barter and sell those firearms for methamphetamine and money from October 2016 to September 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Grant County man sentenced for role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Gary Smith, of Maysville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years probation for his participation in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Smith, 66, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility” in July 2017. Smith admitted to using a communication facility to possess methamphetamine in Grant County in November 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Barbour County man sentenced for role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Austin Jay Robinson, of Belington, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 51 months incarceration for his participation in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Robinson, 19, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine-Aiding and Abetting” in November 2017. Robinson admitted to conspiring with others to distribute methamphetamine in Randolph County in April 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Upshur County man admits to his role in a firearms conspiracyRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Glen Woods, of French Creek, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a stolen firearms conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Woods, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Firearm – Aiding and Abetting.” Woods admitted to having 21 stolen firearms with the intent to conceal, sell, and barter the firearms in October 2016.
Woods 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 cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Braxton County man admits to firearm and drug chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles William Masters, of Burnsville, West Virginia, has admitted to firearm and drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Masters, age 44, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Carry a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime.” Masters admitted to illegally possessing a 9mm pistol while possessing methamphetamine on July 3, 2017 in Lewis County, West Virginia.
Masters faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the methamphetamine count, and up to life 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Tennessee Physician agrees to pay nearly $200,000 to government for kickback schemeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dr. Brenna Green, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, has settled with the United States Government for her role in a kickback scheme that included West Virginia physicians, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Green, age 41, was accused of participating in a kickback scheme with Southwest Laboratories, Medscan Laboratory, sales representatives affiliated with Southwest and Medscan and others, thereby causing false claims to be submitted to Medicare in violation of the Federal False Claims Act, the Physician Self-Referral law, and the Anti-Kickback Statute. It is alleged that Green acquired shares in Southwest for a nominal sum in exchange for a guaranteed “dividend” of approximately $5,000 per month, provided she met or exceeded the number of urine drug screen referrals required by Southwest. Green allegedly collected nearly $100,000 in said dividends.
Green has agreed to pay $199,425.56, which was paid in full this week.
“We will be ever vigilant in our task of protecting taxpayer dollars from fraudulent schemes. Thanks to the hard work of our civil staff and agency investigators, we were able to successfully conclude this matter. Our efforts will continue,” said Powell.
It is further alleged that Southwest processed urine drug screens from patients covered by private health care benefit programs, and forwarded the drug screens from patients covered by Medicare to Medscan. Medscan profited more than $300,000 from Medicare drug screens that were referred by Green.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan McGonigal litigated the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Office of Inspector General – Department of Health and Human Services investigated.
Harrison County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Leon Turner, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 41 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Turner, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in December 2017. Turner, having previously being convicted of three felonies, is also accused of possessing a 9mm caliber pistol. The crime is alleged to have occurred in Harrison County in May 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Berkeley County man indicted on drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Hedgesville, West Virginia man has been indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg on March 20, 2018 on a cocaine distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Douglas Mills, also known as “D,” age 26, was indicted on two counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Mills is accused of selling cocaine in Berkeley County in August 2015.
Mills was arrested in New York by the United States Marshal Service on April 11, 2018.
Mills faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Grant, also with the West Virginia Attorney General’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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Baltimore man indicted on drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Baltimore, Maryland man has been indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg on March 20, 2018 on a heroin distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Troy Bradley, also known as “Rich,” age 39, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Bradley is accused of selling heroin in Berkeley County on December 11, 2015.
Bradley was arrested in Maryland on April 13, 2018.
Bradley 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 Elizabeth Grant, also with the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Wetzel County man admits to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel P. Sprowl, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, has admitted to possessing child pornography, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Sprowl, age 54, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Sprowl admitted to possessing images of child pornography involving children under the age of 12 in November 2016 in Wetzel County.
Sprowl 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 Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting 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.
Ohio County man sentenced to nearly five years for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Quashad Maurante Pugh, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months incarceration for distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pugh, also known as “Q” and “Quavo,” age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Deliver Cocaine Base within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” in February 2018. Pugh distributed cocaine near Jensen Playground in October 2017 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted 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.Marion County man sentenced for manufacturing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jesse Nelson Yoho, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 33 months incarceration for his role in making methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Yoho, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Pseudoephedrine to be Used in Manufacture of Methamphetamine” in November 2017. Yoho admitted to possessing Pseudophedrine with the intent of making methamphetamine in Marion County in April 2015.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug &Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Marion County man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William D. Fulmer, of Rivesville, West Virginia, has admitted to an unlawful firearm possession charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Fulmer, age 62, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Fulmer, who had previously been convicted of crimes in Venango County, Pennsylvania, admitted to having a .308 caliber rifle in July 2017 in Marion County.
Fulmer 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 Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to drug distribution and firearm chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jordan T. Ratliff, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution and firearm charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ratliff, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Ratliff admitted to distributing methamphetamine in December 2017 in Harrison County. Ratliff, who had previously been convicted of crimes in Monongalia County, admitted to having a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol in February 2018 in Harrison County.
Ratliff faces up to 20 years incarceration and a $1,000,000 fine for the drug count, and faces up to 10 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Bridgeport Police Department Mountain Highway Interdiction Team investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Barbour County man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jerry Lee Beohm, Jr., of Philippi, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearm charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Beohm, age 43, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” 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.
Beohm 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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Eastern Panhandle man guilty of drug distribution and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Gregory Keith Clinton, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, was found guilty today by a jury of drug and firearm charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
After a three-day trial and two hours of deliberations, a jury found Clinton, age 57, guilty of one count of “Armed Career Criminal Act,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride.” He was also found guilty of one count of “Possession of Cocaine Base” and one count of “Possession of Cocaine.” Clinton, having previously been convicted of three felony drug charges, illegally possessed a .45-caliber pistol and possessed crack cocaine and coke in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties in July 2016.
“I appreciate the hard work of our dedicated trial team. We will continue to relentlessly pursue those who violate our drug and firearm laws. Our community is safer today because of the jury’s verdict,” said Powell.
Clinton faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the first count, and faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the each of the “Possession with Intent to Distribute” counts. Clinton also faces up to one year incarceration and a mandatory minimum fine of $1,000 for each of the possession 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 Anna Z. Krasinski and Special Assistant Prosecuting 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.Jefferson County, Ohio man guilty of drug distribution and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – After a two-day trial, Emory Chiles, of Steubenville, Ohio, was found guilty on all counts today by a jury, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
After 26 minutes of deliberations, 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.” 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
“I appreciate the hard work of our trial team and judgement of the jury. We will continue to aggressively pursue those who violate our drug laws and be particularly vigilant when prohibited individuals have firearms. Firearms and drugs often go hand in hand and keeping our communities safe is our number one priority,” said Powell.
Chiles faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the first count, faces up to five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the second count, and faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the third 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting 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.Marion County man sentenced for firearm chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rocmond Lewis, Sr., of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for an illegal firearm charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lewis, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in December 2017. Lewis, having previously being convicted of a felony in the Circuit Court of Marion County, West Virginia, admitted to possessing a .45 caliber pistol, a 9mm pistol, and a .380 caliber pistol. The crime occurred in March 2017 in Marion 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.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Illegal Alien indicted on reentry chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Mexican man has been indicted by a federal grand jury on a reentry charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Victor Eduardo Zepeda-Garcia, also known as Victor Eduardo Garcia-Zepeda, age 31, a citizen of Mexico, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Zepeda-Garcia, an illegal alien, is accused of reentering the United States after being removed in March 2016 near Del Rio, Texas. Zepeda-Garcia is accused of being in Lewis County, West Virginia on March 3, 2018.
Zepeda-Garcia 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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
A New York man and two Monongalia County residents indicted on firearms conspiracy chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three people are facing a charge involving an illegal firearms operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
The two men and one woman were indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Elkins on March 6, 2018. The three are accused of being involved in a conspiracy that included making false statements to purchase firearms, trading firearms for controlled substances, and transporting and selling the firearms in New York. The crime is alleged to have occurred in Morgantown, Monongalia County and elsewhere from May 2017 to June 2017.
Those charged with “Conspiracy to Violate Federal Firearms Laws” are:
• Amanze Antoine, age 37, of Mt. Vernon, New York
• Margaret Parker, age 33, of Dellslow, West Virginia
• Tommy Calhoun, of Morgantown, West VirginiaEach 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 Zelda E. Wesley 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.