Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Pendleton County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Franklin, West Virginia man admitted to a firearms violation, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Randy David May, age 37, pled guilty to “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” May, having been convicted of three prior felonies, admitted to possessing a 12-gauge shotgun on August 28, 2016 in Pendleton County.
May faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Marion County woman sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Fairmont, West Virginia woman was sentenced today to 57 months incarceration for a firearms conviction, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Heather N. Windsor, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm” in June 2017. Windsor admitted to making a false statement during the purchase of a 5.56 mm caliber pistol in July 2016 in Monongalia County.
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.
Upshur County man indicted on child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Buckhannon, West Virginia, man had an initial appearance this morning in federal court on a child pornography charge, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
James Andrew Smith, age 57, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling on October 3, 2017 on one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Smith, having previously been convicted of possession of child pornography, is accused of having computer disks and other materials containing child pornography in his possession. The crime is alleged to have occurred in November 2015 in Upshur County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police are investigating.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Maryland man admits to selling crack cocaineRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Hagerstown, Maryland man has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Michael Anthony McIntosh, also known as “Lo, and “Polo,” age 46, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Anthony admitted to selling crack cocaine in Berkeley County in November 2013.
McIntosh 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 and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Monongalia County man admits to his role in an oxycodone distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Pursglove, West Virginia man admitted today to his involvement in an oxycodone distribution operation, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Jason Pancoast, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense.” Pancoast admitted to having and using a pistol in connection to a drug trafficking crime. The crime occurred in March 2017 in Monongalia County.
Pancoast 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, led the investigation.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Fairmont man and Morgantown woman admit to their roles in an oxycodone distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two West Virginia residents have admitted to their roles in a drug distribution operation, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Leon Jamar Maddox, age 34, of Fairmont, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” Maddox admitted to selling oxycodone in Monongalia County in September 2015.
Amanda Maddox, age 32, of Morgantown, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” She admitted to using a telephone to assist in distributing oxycodone in Monongalia County in March 2017.
Leon Maddox faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Amanda Maddox faces up to four 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 cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Valley Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Berkeley County woman admits to heroin distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia woman has admitted to her role in a heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Brandy May, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin.” She admitted to conspiring with others to distribute heroin in Berkeley County in February and March 2017.
May 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 Lydia Lehman is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Physician at Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Martinsburg admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - A Maryland man has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Daniel J. Bochicchio, of Monkton, Maryland, age 60, has pled guilty to one count of “Acquiring Fentanyl by Misrepresentation, Fraud, Deception, and Subterfuge.” Bochicchio admitted to acquiring fentanyl by fraudulently entering patient information at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Martinsburg, West Virginia. The crime occurred in March of 2017.
Bochicchio faces up to four 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 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Mineral County man admits to distributing heroinRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Lee Sutter, IV, of Keyser, West Virginia, admitted today in federal court to distributing heroin, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Sutter, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin.” Sutter admitted to conspiring with others to distributing heroin in Mineral County and elsewhere from November 2010 to September 2016.
Sutter faces up to 20 years in prison 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 Anna Z. Krasinski is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
A Berkeley County woman admits to her role in a heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Hedgesville, West Virginia woman has admitted to her role in a heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Donna Miller, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting with the Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Miller admitted to aiding others in distributing heroin in Berkeley County and Baltimore, Maryland in June 2016.
Miller 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 Anna Z. Krasinski is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Several men indicted on illegal re-entry chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Six men have been indicted by a grand jury today on illegal re-entry charges, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Benjamin Lopez-Ramirez, age 33, of Mexico, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Lopze-Ramirez, having been removed from the United States two prior times, and having been convicted of cocaine distribution in the Northern District of West Virginia, is accused of being in Jefferson County, West Virginia, without consent, in September 2017.
Edi Alvarez-Sanchez, age 30, of Mexico, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Alvarez-Sanchez, having been removed from the United States once before, is accused of being in Berkeley County, West Virginia, without consent, in September 2017.
Jose Fredy Acosta-Cardona, age 36, of Honduras, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Acosta-Cardona, having been removed from the United States five prior times, is accused of being in Berkeley County, West Virginia, without consent, in September 2017.
Apolonio Pacheco-Lopez, age 25, of Guatemala, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Pacheco-Lopez, having been removed from the United States once before, is accused of being in Berkeley County, West Virginia, without consent, in September 2017.
Eostaquio Temoxtle-Panzo, age 29, of Mexico, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Temoxtle-Panzo, having been removed from the United States once before, is accused of being in Berkeley County, West Virginia, without consent, in August 2017.
Oscar Ordaz-Rodriguez, age 38, of Mexico, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Ordaz-Rodriguez, having been removed from the United States three prior times, is accused of being in Berkeley County, West Virginia, without consent, in September 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the Lopez-Ramirez, Alvarez-Sanchez, and Acosta-Cardona cases on behalf of the government.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti is prosecuting the Pancheco-Lopez, Temoxtle-Panzo, and Ordaz-Rodriguez cases on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pennsylvania man sentenced for oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Bruce Mathis, 53, of Biglerville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for distributing oxycodone, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Mathis pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone” in February 2017. The crime took place in Jefferson County in March 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Ohio man sentenced for cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Edward L. Haynes, Jr., of South Euclid, was sentenced today to 100 months incarceration for cocaine distribution, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Haynes, age 44, pled guilty to “Distribution of Cocaine Base” in August 2017. Haynes admitted to selling cocaine on April 1, 2017 in Marshall County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Jefferson County man sentenced for firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Terry Edwards, of Charles Town, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William J. Powell announced.
Edwards, age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in July 2017. Edwards, having been previously convicted of a felony in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia, admitted to possessing two pistols and a rifle in March 2017 in Jefferson County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Charles Town Police Department investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
William J. Powell sworn in as United States Attorney for the Northern District of West VirginiaRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – William J. Powell has taken the oath of office to become the United States Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia. Powell was nominated by President Donald Trump on August 3, 2017 and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on October 3, 2017. Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh administered the oath of office to U.S. attorney Powell today.
“I am honored and humbled to be named as the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia. I’m excited to start working with the very fine staff and attorneys in the district on the very important work that needs to get done,” said Powell.
As U.S. Attorney, Powell is the top-ranking federal law enforcement official in the Northern District of West Virginia, which includes offices in Wheeling, Martinsburg, Clarksburg, and Elkins. He oversees a staff of 45 employees, including 21 attorneys and 24 non-attorney support personnel. The office is responsible for prosecuting federal crimes in the district, including crimes related to terrorism, public corruption, child exploitation, firearms, and narcotics. The office also defends the United States in civil cases and collects debts owed to the United States.
Powell, a Martinsburg native, was born in Manhasset, New York in 1960. He most recently served as the Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Jefferson County, West Virginia. He has also held positions as a member attorney at Jackson Kelly, PLLC, and an Assistant United States Attorney in the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.
He received his J.D. in 1985 from the West Virginia University College of Law and his B.A. in 1982 from Salem College. He is a past president of the West Virginia Bar Association, past Member of the Board of Governors for the West Virginia State Bar, and has been active in numerous community and professional organizations.
He has been married to his wife, Sharon, for 31 years, and they have raised three boys.
Pleasants County woman admits to charges involving the theft of social security benefitsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - A St. Marys, West Virginia woman has admitted to a theft charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Anne Louise Hall, age 57, pled guilty to one count of “Theft of Government Money.” Hall admitted to collecting social security benefits under false pretenses. The crime occurred from October 2006 to March 2017.
Hall 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 Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County woman admits to maintaining a drug houseRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - A Morgantown, West Virginia woman has admitted to having a drug-involved premises, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Brianna Blackman, also known as “BB,” age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises.” Blackman admitted to maintaining an apartment in Rhea Terrace in Fairmont in Marion County, West Virginia for the purpose of distributing oxycodone. The crime occurred from May until December 2016.
Blackman faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $500,000. 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 and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Michigan man sentenced for heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Julian Michael-Thomas “Cain” Johnson, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 40 months incarceration for heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Thomas, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” in June 2017. The crime occurred November 2016 near West Virginia University in Monongalia County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Harrison County man admits to maintaining a drug houseRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - A Clarksburg, West Virginia man has admitted to having a drug-involved premises, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Eric K. Malcomb, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises.” Malcomb admitted to maintaining a house on Penn Street in Clarksburg for the purpose of distributing heroin in July 2015.
Malcomb faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Detroit man admits to selling crack cocaineRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Detroit, Michigan man has admitted to a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Aaron Deshawn Campbell, also known as “Mike,” age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Campbell admitted selling crack cocaine in Monongalia County in June 2015.
Campbell 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded program, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Monongalia County man admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Pursglove, West Virginia man has admitted to a drug distribution charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Floyd Pancoast, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” Pancoast admitted to using a telephone to help distribute oxycodone in Monongalia County in February 2017.
Pancoast faces up to four 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 prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to illegal firearm chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Salem, West Virginia man has admitted to an unlawful possession of a firearm charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Justin Paul Crofford, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Crofford, having previously been convicted of a felony in Smith County, Texas Circuit Court, admitted to possessing a 12-gauge shotgun in January 2017 in Harrison County, West Virginia.
Crofford 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 and the Anmoore Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County man admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Morgantown, West Virginia man has admitted to a drug distribution charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Codey Bonnette, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” Bonnette admitted to selling oxycodone in Monongalia County in September 2015.
Bonnette 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 Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man has admitted to a firearm charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Ryan Matthew Smith, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Smith, having been previously convicted of a felony and a misdemeanor in the Circuit Court in Harrison County, West Virginia, admitted to possessing a .357caliber revolver in Harrison County in September 2016.
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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Clarksburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Belmont County woman admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Bridgeport, Ohio woman has admitted to her role in a crack cocaine distribution operation, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Faith Diane Leasure, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Crack Cocaine.” Leasure admitted to selling crack cocaine in Ohio County in August 2016.
Leasure 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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U. S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Youngstown man sentenced for trafficking cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dennis Lee Artis, of Youngstown, Ohio was sentenced today to 15 months incarceration for distributing cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Artis, age 52, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” in September 2017. Artis admitted to selling cocaine near Allison Elementary School in Hancock County on April 5, 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Hancock/Brooke/Weirton Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.Monongalia County woman and Marion County man plead guilty to drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Westover, West Virginia woman and a Fairmont, West Virginia man have admitted to drug distribution charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Anna May Martin, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” 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.
Thomas Keener, II, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” Keener admitted to using a phone to distribute and assist in a conspiracy to distribute oxycodone in Monongalia County in February 2017.
Martin and Keener each face up to four 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 prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man has admitted to a firearm charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Jason Garcia Cano, age 42, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Cano, having been previously convicted of a felony in the 426th District Court in Bell County, Texas, admitted to possessing a .22 caliber revolver in Harrison County in October 2016.
Cano 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 and the Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Two men sentenced for mail fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two West Virginia men were sentenced today for mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Dallas Lewis, age 55, of Clarksburg, was sentenced to 92 months incarceration. Lewis pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud” in May 2017. Lewis admitted to conspiring with others to file false insurance claims from staged motor vehicle accidents. Lewis would then receive a portion of the insurance settlement in each filing. The crimes happened between January 2012 and August 2014 in Taylor, Harrison, and Marion Counties.
Lewis was ordered to pay $290,320.90 in restitution.
Charles Bonner, age 34, of Morgantown, was sentenced to 27 months incarceration. Bonner pled guilty to one count of “Mail Fraud” in May 2017. Bonner admitted to taking part in a staged vehicular accident in January 2012 in Harrison County. He also admitted to faking injuries from said accident and filing a false insurance claim, from which he, and others, received insurance settlements of approximately $101,500. Bonner also admitted his role in procuring an insurance settlement check in someone else’s name in the amount of $46,500.
Bonner was ordered to pay $152,603.64 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia Insurance Commission Office of Inspector General and the United States Postal Inspection Service investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Two Wheeling men indicted on firearm chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Wheeling, West Virginia men were indicted by a federal grand jury of unlawful possession on a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Eban Joseph Keith Beyah, age 45, was indicted on 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, is accused of possessing a 9mm pistol in Ohio County on June 2017.
Charles C. Ansley, Jr., age 37, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Ansley, having previously been convicted of burglary in Commons Pleas Court in Lucas County, Ohio, is accused of possessing a .22 caliber revolver in Ohio County on August 2017.
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 are investigating both cases.An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Virginia companies and three individuals indicted on cigarette smuggling chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging three individuals and two Virginia-based companies with unlawful cigarette smuggling, Assistant United States Attorney, Criminal Chief Randolph J. Bernard announced today.
Reba Marcelle Myers, age 60, of Clearbrook, Virginia; Lisa Renee Lindquist, age 52, of Winchester, Virginia; John Barrett Fairchild, age 40, of East Islip, New York; Demcorp. Inc. of Clearbrook, Virginia: and Welltown Group of Winchester, Virginia, are alleged to have conspired to profit from the unlawful sale of contraband cigarettes. The indictment charges that the defendants transported large quantities of cigarettes across state lines for redistribution and sale. The cigarettes were acquired in Virginia, where the tax rate for cigarettes is one of the lowest in the nation, and sold in other states, including New York, which has one of the nation’s highest tax rates. The cigarettes were possessed and transported in West Virginia.
Tobacco retailer Dollar Stretcher, of Winchester, Virginia, which was owned by Demcorp. Inc., owned and operated by Myers, and Welltown Group, owned and operated by Lindquist, was responsible for the acquisition of the contraband. Myers and Demcorp. Inc., along with Lindquist and Welltown Group, are alleged to have purchased millions of dollars worth of cigarettes from various wholesalers in the region, primarily with cash, before reselling them to out of state smugglers for a profit.Each of the five defendants is charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Evade Tobacco Taxes.” Myers, Lindquist, and Fairchild are further charged with one count of “Contraband Cigarettes Trafficking Act.” Each of the defendants faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on 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 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Stein is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, and the Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office led the inquiry.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Steubenville, Ohio man indicted on firearm chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Steubenville, Ohio man was indicted by a federal grand jury of unlawful possession on a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Thomas Bennett, age 41, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Bennet, having previously been convicted of drug possession in Commons Pleas Court in Jefferson County, Ohio in 2017, is accused of possessing a 9mm pistol in Ohio County on August 12, 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department are investigating.An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Columbus, Ohio man indicted on bank robbery chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Columbus, Ohio man was indicted by a federal grand jury on bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Abdou Seye, age 26, was indicted on one count of “Bank Robbery.” Seye is accused of robbing the Chase Bank in the Woodsdale section of Wheeling on March 21, 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Wheeling Police Department are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Monongalia County woman pleads guilty to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Dellslow, West Virginia woman has admitted to a drug distribution charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Hollie Jo Exline, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” 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.
Exline faces up to four 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio woman sentenced for firearm chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Erin Marie Rudolph, of Dennison, Ohio, was sentenced today to 34 months incarceration for an illegal firearm charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Rudolph, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in August 2017. Rudolph, having previously being convicted of a felony in the Circuit Court of Ohio County, was in possession of .22 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number. The crime occurred May 10, 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 West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Martins Ferry, Ohio man convicted of cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Shanwdale Saunders, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, was sentenced today to 168 months incarceration for cocaine trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Shawndale Saunders, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute 280 Grams or More of Cocaine Base” in June 2017. Throughout April and May 2016, Saunders admitted to conspiring with other individuals to transport cocaine across state lines from Ohio into West Virginia in order to possess and sell the drug in Ohio County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Martins Ferry, Ohio Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Marshall County man sentenced for role in Pittsburgh, PA to WV and OH heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –Jeff R. Andlinger, 36, of Benwood, West Virginia was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for heroin trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Andlinger participated in a drug distribution network in which heroin was transported across state lines from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to locations in West Virginia and Ohio for redistribution and sale.
Andlinger sold heroin in January 2015 near a public elementary school in Marshall County, West Virginia. He pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location” in 2015.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Government contractor admits to charge involving the theft and sale of government propertyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - A Virginia man has admitted to the theft and sale of government property, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Richard Alan Millette, of Winchester, Virginia, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Unauthorized Sale, Conveyance, and Disposition of Government Property.”
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 ballistic vests and combat helmets valued at more than $16,000. He is 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Brooke County man sentenced for tax fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Vaughn C. Hone, Jr., of Wellsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 12 months incarceration for failing to file tax returns, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Hone, age 55, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to File a Personal Income Tax Return for Tax Year 2010” and one count of “Failure to File a Personal Income Tax Return for Tax Year 2011” in March 2017. Hone admitted to failing to file income tax in 2010 and 2011 in Brooke County.
Hone was also ordered to pay $170,066 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Wheeling man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Wheeling man has admitted to a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Levar Jermain Matthews, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” 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.
Matthews 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 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. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Gilmer County man admits to illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Jeremy Allen Wolfe, of Glenville, West Virginia has admitted to illegal possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Wolfe , age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearm.” In November 2014, Wolfe was found in possession of multiple firearms, including three rifles and two shotguns, in Calhoun County, WV. Wolfe, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, that is, Delivery of a Controlled Substance, in Gilmer County, WV is prohibited from possessing firearms.
He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine 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 Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.Texas man admits to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Houston, Texas man has admitted to an illegal firearm charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Corey Letroit Joseph Riggs, age 40, pled guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Riggs, who was previously convicted of felonies in the Circuit Court of Harris County, Texas, was in possession of .40 caliber Glock pistol. The crime occurred April 2017 in Ohio County.
He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine 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 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.
New Hampshire man admits to bank fraud chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Dover, New Hampshire man has admitted to bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Kelvin L. Potter, age 36, pled guilty today to one count of “Bank Fraud.” Potter admitted to transferring money from an account at Chase Bank belonging to Velco, Inc., which holds the business account of Vocelli Pizza in Wheeling, without authorization. The crime occurred in May 2015.
Potter faces up to 30 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 Jarod J. Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Marshall County man pleads guilty to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Moundsville, West Virginia man has admitted to a drug distribution charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Rhett D. Gump, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Gump admitted to selling methamphetamine near the Golden Towers in Moundsville on January 5, 2017.
Gump faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney 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. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Marshall County man admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Moundsville, West Virginia man has admitted to a drug distribution charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Ronald Lee Shaw, also known as “Fuzz,” age 46, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Shaw admitted to selling cocaine near Riverview Towers in Wheeling on April 18, 2017.
Shaw faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Jefferson County man admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Harpers Ferry, West Virginia man has admitted to distributing heroin, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Blake Ramsey Viands, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of a Heroin.” Viands admitted to distributing heroin in November 2016 in Jefferson County, West Virginia.
Viands 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Agency and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Eastern Panhandle woman admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Kearneysville, West Virginia woman has admitted to distributing cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Jennifer Gibbs, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of a Controlled Substance.” Gibbs admitted to selling cocaine in November 2016 in Jefferson County, West Virginia.
Gibbs 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 Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Virginia man sentenced for traveling across state lines to have sex with a minorRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Johnnie William Bateman, III, of Culpepper, Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration for traveling across state lines to meet a minor for sex, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Bateman, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct” in June 2017. Bateman admitted to traveling from Virginia to Berkeley County, West Virginia in August 2016 to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a person he believed to be a 15-year-old girl.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Las Vegas man sentenced for bank robberyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Vance Lawrence Burns, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was sentenced to 48 months incarceration for robbing an Ohio County bank, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Burns, age 57, pled guilty to one count of “Bank Robbery” in July 2017. Burns admitted to robbing the United Bank in Bethlehem in April 2014, taking $3,202.00.
Burns was also ordered to pay $3,202 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick. P Stamp. Jr. presided.
Jefferson County man sentenced for illegally possessing firearmsRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Ranson, West Virginia man was sentenced today to 37 months incarceration for illegal possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Jeremiah David Wallace, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearm” in June 2017. Wallace admitted to possession of multiple firearms in Berkeley County in November 2015. Wallace, having been convicted of a felony in Frederick County, Virginia, is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Ranson Police Department investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.