Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Two Wheeling men admit to firearm chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Wheeling, West Virginia men have admitted to unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Eban Joseph Keith Beyah, age 45, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” 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.
Charles C. Ansley, Jr., age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Ansley, having previously been convicted of burglary in Commons Pleas Court in Lucas County, Ohio, admitted to possessing a .22 caliber revolver in Ohio County on August 2017.
Beyah and Ansley each face 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 L. Vogrin is prosecuting both cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department investigated both cases.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Monongalia County woman sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anna May Martin, of Westover, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Martin, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility” in October 2017. Martin admitted to using a phone to distribute and assist in a conspiracy to distribute oxycodone. The crime occurred in Monongalia County in March 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Berkeley County man admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Bunker Hill, West Virginia man has admitted to a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
David Smeltzer, of Bunker Hill, West Virginia, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin.” Smeltzer admitted to selling heroin in Berkeley County in January 2017.
Smeltzer faces up to 20 months 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 and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Belmont County man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Phillip Weir, of Bridgeport, Ohio, was sentenced today to 51 months incarceration for distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Weir, age 32 pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Crack Cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school” in November 2017. Weir admitted to working with another to sell crack cocaine near Madison Elementary School in Wheeling, WV on September 22, 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U. S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Jefferson County, Ohio man indicted on firearm chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Wintersville, Ohio man was indicted today by a federal grand jury on a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Shaheim Price, age 23, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Price, having previously been convicted of a felony, is accused of possessing a 9mm pistol. The crime is alleged to have occurred in Ohio County in October 2017.
Price 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 Steven L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Jefferson County, Ohio man indicted on drug distribution and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Steubenville, Ohio man was indicted today by a federal grand jury on drug and firearm charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Emory Chiles, age 43, was indicted on 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 is accused of distributing heroin and being in possession of a 9mm pistol in Monongalia County in November 2017. Chiles was previously convicted of a felony in the Northern District of West Virginia
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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Jefferson County, Ohio man indicted on counterfeit chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Mingo Junction, Ohio man was indicted today by a federal grand jury on counterfeit currency charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Travis Knight, age 32, was indicted on one count of “Uttering Counterfeit Currency,” and one count of “Attempted Uttering of Counterfeit Currency.” Knight is accused of passing counterfeit $50 bills and attempting to pass counterfeit $50 bills in Marion and Monongalia Counties in October and November 2017.
Knight faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Harrison County man indicted on drug distribution and firearm chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man was indicted today by a federal grand jury on drug distribution and firearm charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
James Bailey, age 33, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense.” Bailey is accused of selling methamphetamine and being in possession of a firearm during the drug offense in Harrison County in January 2018.
Bailey faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the first count and faces up to five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the second 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 Greater Harrison County 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.Hancock County woman admits to making a false statementRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A New Cumberland, West Virginia woman admitted today making a false statement when applying to the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) Small Business and Capital Ownership Development Program, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Nichole P. Northcraft, 44, pled guilty to one count of “False Official Writings.” Northcraft, as a minority, made a false claim about business ownership to benefit from the SBA’s program.
The Small Business Administration operates programs to assist socially or economically disadvantaged business operators. The businesses must be unconditionally owned and controlled by the qualifying individuals in order to comply with federal law.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Columbus man indicted on cocaine distribution chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Columbus, Ohio man was indicted today by a federal grand jury on drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jason R. Smoot, age 30, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location,” and one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Smoot is accused of selling cocaine near the Jensen Playground in Wheeling in June 2017.
Smoot faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for the first count and faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the second 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 Steven L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Ohio Valley 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.
Berkeley County woman admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia woman has admitted to her role in a drug distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Sarah Jaielyn Carter, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Carter worked with others to distribute heroin in Berkeley County in November 2016.
Carter 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 and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.Upshur County residents admit to their roles in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
LKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Buckhannon, West Virginia residents have admitted today to conspiring with others to distribute methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Amanda Mae Bachman, also known as “AB,” age 33, and Steven Larry Harper, also known as “Skip,” age 40, each pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Bachman and Harper admitted to conspiring with others to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. The crime occurred in Upshur County and elsewhere from March 2016 to September 2017.
Bachman and Harper each face up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Jefferson County man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Mark Hanshaw, of Jefferson Village, West Virginia has admitted to a firearm charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hanshaw, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Drug User in Possession of a Firearm – Aiding and Abetting.” Hanshaw admitted to illegally possessing a Taurus 38 Special handgun. The crime occurred in September 2015 in Jefferson County.
Hanshaw faces up to ten 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 Paul T. Camilletti 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.El Salvador National admits to illegal re-entryRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Adonai Wilfredo Parada, of El Salvador, has admitted to an illegal re-entry charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Parada, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Parada is in the United States illegally after being removed as an alien in 2015. Parada was found in Ranson, West Virginia on December 7, 2017.
Parada 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 Lara K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
MARTISNBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jarius Jovanghn Styles, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearm charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Styles, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Styles, having previously been convicted of felonies in Virginia, admitted to illegally possessing a Rock Island Armory 10mm pistol. The crime occurred in June 2017 in Berkeley County.
Styles 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 K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is investigating.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.Berkeley County man admits to cocaine chargeRead the Press Release
MARTISNBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia man has admitted to distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Michael Jacque Severe, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Severe conspired with others to distribute crack cocaine in Berkeley County from April 2015 to February 2017.
Severe 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.Monongalia County woman sentenced for drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Hollie Jo Exline, of Dellslow, West Virginia, was sentenced today to time served and six months home detention, to be followed by six months of supervised release, for a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Exline, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility” in September 2017. Exline admitted to using a phone to distribute and assist in a conspiracy to distribute oxycodone. The crime occurred in Monongalia County in February 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Wheeling man admits to firearm, methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Wheeling, West Virginia, man has admitted to firearm and drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Peter Hankish, age 43, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Hankish, having previously been convicted of Theft in the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps General Court, possessed a 7.62 caliber rifle. Hankish admitted to possessing methamphetamine. The crimes occurred in April 2017 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Upshur County man admits to his role in a firearms conspiracyRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – An Ellamore, West Virginia man has admitted today to his role in a firearms theft and sale scheme, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Johnny Lee Riley, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearm.” Riley admitted to receiving, possessing, bartering, concealing, or selling 10 firearms in Upshur County in October 2016.
Riley 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.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.Morgan County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Matthew Dean Smith, of Great Cacapon, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Smith, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of an Unregistered Firearm.” Smith admitted to possessing an unregistered silencer. The crime took place in Berkeley County in October 2017.
Smith 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 K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Harrison County woman admits to oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brittany Brown, of Stonewood, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Brown, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” Brown admitted to selling oxycodone in Harrison County in January 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to a firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man has admitted today to illegally purchasing a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Michael Lewis Woodyard, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement to Acquire a Firearm.” He admitted to making a false statement when purchasing two pistols in Harrison County in March 2017.
Woodyard 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.
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.Upshur County woman admits to her role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Buckhannon, West Virginia woman has admitted today to maintaining a drug-involved place, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Cassandra Tahj Riffle, also known as “Cassie Hickman,” age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises.” Riffle admitted to using a place in Buckhannon to distribute and use methamphetamine. The crime occurred in Upshur County in May 2017.
Riffle faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Upshur County man admits to his role in a gun theft and sale operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Buckhannon, West Virginia man has admitted today to carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Bobby Ray Johnson, Jr., age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Carry a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime.” Johnson admitted to having a .40 caliber pistol during a drug trafficking crime in December 2016 in Upshur County.
Johnson 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 D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug &Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Jefferson County woman admits to possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Harpers Ferry, West Virginia woman has admitted today to having child pornography, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Mindy Sue Snyder, age 33, waived her right to have her case presented before a federal grand jury and pled guilty to a one-count information of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Snyder admitted to having a computer disk and other materials that contained child pornography in Jefferson County in September 2015.
Snyder 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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Barbour County man admits to his role in a firearms conspiracyRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Volga, West Virginia man has admitted today to his role in a firearms theft and sale scheme, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Aaron Matthew McLain, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearm - Aiding and Abetting.” McLain admitted to receiving, possessing, bartering or selling two firearms in Barbour County in October 2016.
McLain 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.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.Wheeling man sentenced for firearm chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - Levar Jermain Matthews, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 84 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Matthews, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in September 2017. Matthews, having previously been convicted of Distribution of Crack Cocaine Within 1,000 feet of a School in the United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia, admitted to possessing a .38 special caliber revolver. The crime occurred in April 2017 in Ohio County.
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.
Marshall County man sentenced for drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Rhett D. Gump, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 12 months and one day incarceration for a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Gump, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location” in September 2017. Gump admitted to selling methamphetamine near the Golden Towers in Moundsville on January 5, 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Maryland man appears on drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – An Elkridge, Maryland man was arrested and had his initial appearance today in federal court after being indicted by a grand jury sitting in Elkins on December 19, 2017 for drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Robert Lee Wyatt, age 39, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base” and two counts of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Also named in the indictment is Xavier Clyde Mann, age 30, of Finksburg, Maryland. Mann was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base,” four counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base,” and two counts of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Wyatt and Mann are accused of conspiring to distribute cocaine base in Mineral County from March to June 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Martinsburg man indicted on failure to register as a sex offender chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia man was indicted today by a federal grand jury on a failure to register charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Andrew Reed Cumbie, age 36, was indicted on one count of “Failure to Register.” Cumbie, having been convicted of a sex offense in the Circuit Court of Melheur County, Oregon, is accused of traveling interstate commerce and not registering and updating his registration as a sex offender. The crime is alleged to have occurred in Berkeley County from November 16 to December 11, 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the United States Marshal Service.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Martinsburg man indicted on drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg man was indicted today by a federal grand jury on drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Charles Leroy Palmer, III, age 23, was indicted on two counts of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin,” and one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.”
Palmer is accused of distributing heroin and cocaine base in Jefferson and Berkeley Counties in June 2017.
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 case was investigated by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Martinsburg City Police Department.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Hampshire County man indicted on firearm chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Romney, West Virginia man was indicted today by a federal grand jury on a firearm charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Grover Allen White, age 39, was indicted on one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” White is accused of possessing a stolen .380 caliber pistol. The crime is alleged to have occurred in Hampshire County in June 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.El Salvador man indicted on reentry of a removed alien chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – An El Salvador man was indicted today by a federal grand jury on a reentry of a remove alien charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Norman Enrique Rodriguez, age 37, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien.” Rodriguez, having been removed as an illegal alien from the United States in 2011, is accused of being in Jefferson County, West Virginia on January 12, 2018.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.California man indicted on firearms and drug chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – An Antelope, California man was indicted today by a federal grand jury on firearms and drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Patrick Wayne Grady, age 34, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,” one count of “Possessing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.”
Grady, having previously been convicted of several felonies, is accused of possessing a 9mm pistol, as well as possessing methamphetamine and heroin with the intent of distributing the drugs. The crimes are alleged to have occurred in Berkeley County in February 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Martinsburg man sentenced for cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Keon DeAngelo Parker, of Martinsburg, West Virginia was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration for cocaine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Parker, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” in September 2017. Parker admitted to distributing cocaine near Berkeley Heights Elementary School in Berkeley County on December 21, 2015.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Jefferson County man sentenced for mail fraudRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Lichtman, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months incarceration for mail fraud, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lichtman, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Mail Fraud” in September 2017. Lichtman admitted to filing false insurance claims totaling $354,552.26. The crime happened November 2013 in Berkeley County.
Lichtman was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $354,552.26.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Jefferson County man sentenced for drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Blake Ramsey Viands, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for distributing heroin, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Viands, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of a Heroin” in September 2017. Viands admitted to distributing heroin in November 2016 in Jefferson County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Agency and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Jefferson County man sentenced for cocaine chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ricardo Lewis, Jr., aka BOLO, of Ranson, West Virginia was sentenced today to five years probation for distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lewis, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substance” in September 2017. The crime occurred from August 2015 to July 2016 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Hampshire County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Albert Slonaker, of Augusta, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Slonaker, age 49, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearms” in September 2017. Slonaker, having previously been convicted in the Circuit Court of Frederick County, Virginia, admitted to having a .22 caliber revolver, a .357 magnum revolver, two .22 caliber rifles, a .30-06 caliber rifle, and a Rossi firearm frame/receiver. The crime occurred in January 2017 in Hampshire County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, West Virginia Probation, and West Virginia State Police investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Former government contractor sentenced for the sale of government propertyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - Richard Alan Millette, of Winchester, Virginia, was sentenced today to three years probation for the sale of government property, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Millette, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Unauthorized Sale, Conveyance, and Disposition of Government Property” in September 2017. From 2011 to May 2017, Millette was a government contractor with the U.S. Department of State (DOS). At DOS, Millette worked as a special skills tactics instructor at the DOS Diplomatic Security Interim Training Facility, located at Summit Point, Jefferson County, West Virginia.
Millette admitted to acquiring unlawfully ballistic vests and combat helmets valued at more than $16,000. He was accused of selling them online and trading them for other items. The crime occurred from March 2016 to March 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski and U.S. Department of Justice Attorney Jennifer Ballantyne prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Department of State Office of Inspector General, led by Steve A. Linick, investigated this matter.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Eastern Panhandle woman sentenced for drug distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jennifer Gibbs, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration for distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Gibbs, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of a Controlled Substance” in September 2017. Gibbs admitted to selling cocaine in November 2016 in Jefferson County, West Virginia.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also of 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, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County man sentenced for possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Wesley Chalk, of Inwood, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 84 months incarceration, followed by 25 years of supervised release, for possession of child pornography, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Chalk, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography” in August 2017. Chalk admitted to having in his possession child pornography depicting a prepubescent minor and a minor under the age of 12. The crime occurred in August 2016 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Monongalia County man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Morgantown, West Virginia man has admitted to a firearm charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Jason Perry, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Perry admitted to illegally possessing 9mm pistol in Monongalia County in March 2017.
Perry 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 Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to illegal firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Shinnston, West Virginia man has admitted to unlawfully possessing a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Steven Scott Nestor, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” 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.
Nestor 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.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Eight charged in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eight people have been indicted by a grand jury on January 9, 2018 for drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
The 30-count indictment alleges a conspiracy to distribute heroin, fentanyl, as well as marijuana in Harrison County from an unknown date to September 2017. Those named in the indictment are:
- Ernest Russell Claypool, Jr., age 53, of Clarksburg, West Virginia
- Michelle Elaine Queen, age 46, of Clarksburg, West Virginia
- Chadley Russell Claypool, age 31, of Clarksburg, West Virginia
- Armand Taylor, also known as Scrap, age 24, of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania
- Jordan Michael Conaway, age 23, of Clarksburg, West Virginia
- Colton Justice Kallel, age 21, of Clarksburg, West Virginia
- Zachery Allen Queen, age 25, of Clarksburg, West Virginia
- Kamesha Sherrail Claypool, age 23, of Clarksburg, West Virginia
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force and the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.U.S. Attorney Announces Senior Leadership TeamRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –United States Attorney Bill Powell has announced his Senior Leadership Team. Those appointed to the team bring a combined 109 years of service to the United States Attorney’s Office in the Northern District, and will assist Mr. Powell in the management of the Wheeling, Martinsburg, Clarksburg, and Elkins offices.
Those named are Randolph J. Bernard, First Assistant United States Attorney; Helen Campbell Altmeyer, Civil Division Chief; Paul T. Camilletti, Criminal Division Chief; Fawn E. Thomas, Administrative Officer; and Traci M. Cook, Branch Office Supervisor Clarksburg.
“I am excited about our team. We have important work to do, but I am confident we will get it done. The guidance and support I have already received has been invaluable. Along with our dedicated Assistant United States Attorneys and all of our support staff, we will continue to do the work of our district in a professional and unwavering manner,” said Powell.
Assistant United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard has been named First Assistant United States Attorney, after the retirement of former First Assistant Betsy Steinfeld Jividen. Mr. Bernard previously served as the Chief of the Criminal Division. Mr. Bernard joined the office in 2002. Mr. Bernard has also served as the District Office Security Manager. Before becoming an Assistant United States Attorney, Mr. Bernard served as a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the Wheeling, West Virginia Resident Agency. Prior to the FBI, he was a litigator with Coolidge, Wall, Womsley & Lombard in Dayton, Ohio.
Helen Campbell Altmeyer will continue in her role at the Civil Division Chief. She has served as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Civil Division since 1989. Before joining the United States Attorney’s Office, Ms. Altmeyer was an Associate at Bachmann, Hess, Bachmann & Garden, in Wheeling, West Virginia. She also served as an Assistant County Prosecutor in Ohio County, West Virginia, where she was primarily responsible for handling child abuse and neglect cases.
Paul T. Camilletti has been named the Criminal Division Chief. Mr. Camilletti was most recently the Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division. He joined the office in 1991 as an Assistant United States Attorney responsible for Asset Forfeiture. He has also served as a task force attorney for the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force. He presently serves as the National Security Cyber Specialist and Crisis Management Coordinator. Before joining the United States Attorney’s Office, Mr. Camilletti was a partner in the law firm of Camilletti & Sacco in Wheeling, West Virginia. He has also served as an assistant Prosecuting Attorney in both the Ohio County and Marshall County, West Virginia Prosecutor’s offices.
Fawn E. Thomas will continue in her role as Administrative Officer, serving as the Chief of the Administrative Division and as the primary advisor to the United States Attorney for planning and managing all office resources. Ms. Thomas has been with the office since 1983. Prior to her appointment as Administrative Officer, she served as the Public Affairs Specialist and the Human Resource Specialist. Ms. Thomas was previously an EEO Investigator for the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and an Evaluation and Review Staff Evaluator. Ms. Thomas also served on the Administrative Officers’ Working Group.
Traci M. Cook is the branch office supervisor in the Clarksburg office. Ms. Cook joined the office in 2016. Before becoming an Assistant United States Attorney, Ms. Cook was a senior assistant prosecuting attorney in Harrison County. She also served as an associate attorney at Reed Kimble PLLC in Morgantown, West Virginia. Prior to that, she was an assistant public defender in Clarksburg, West Virginia and an associate attorney at Seibert & Kasserman, LC in Wheeling, West Virginia.
Tyler County man admits to meth distribution and a firearm violationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Middlebourne, West Virginia man has admitted to a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
William “Jack” Parr, age 51, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess With Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.” Parr admitted to distributing methamphetamine from 2015 to August 2017 in Tyler County, West Virginia. Parr, having previously been convicted of a felony in the Circuit Court of Tyler County, also admitted to illegally possessing two .22 caliber pistols, a 9mm pistol, and a .45 caliber pistol.
Parr faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the conspiracy charge, and up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office are investigating.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Two Mineral County men appear on drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Keyser, West Virginia man and a Piedmont, West Virginia man appeared in federal court after being indicted by a grand jury in November 2017 for drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.Jordan Foster, of Piedmont, age 22, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base,” four counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Hydrochloride,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride,” and “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Hydrochloride.” Foster is accused of distributing cocaine and cocaine hydrochloride in July and August 2017 in Mineral County.
Brandon Suter, of Keyser, age 26, was indicted on one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Hydrochloride.” Suter is accused of assisting Foster in possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride in August 2017 in Mineral County.
Foster faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each count. Suter faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Maryland woman indicted on drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Westernport, Maryland was indicted by a grand jury in November 2017 for drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Shelley Kay Snyder-Windle, age 53, was indicted on two counts of “Distribution of Cocaine.” Snyder-Windle is accused of distributing cocaine and cocaine hydrochloride in July and August 2017 in Mineral County.
Snyder-Windle 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 United States Attorney Elizabeth Grant, also with the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force and the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Ohio man sentenced to 20 years for cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Austin Boyd, Jr., of Toledo, Ohio was sentenced today to 240 months incarceration for cocaine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Boyd, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine” in September 2017. Boyd admitted to possessing 280 grams or more of cocaine in Harrison County in September 2016.
Boyd was also ordered to forfeit proceeds, directly or indirectly, from the crime, including United States currency in the amount of $35,580.00 and a Taurus revolver, Model 85, .38 caliber.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and Bridgeport Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.