Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Jefferson County man sentenced for illegally possessing a firearmRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Ranson, West Virginia man was sentenced today to 57 months incarceration for illegal possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Chad Aric Berry, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in June 2017. Berry, having previously been convicted of a felony in the Circuit Court of Jefferson County, admitted to possessing a .380 caliber pistol in Jefferson County September 2015.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Hampshire County woman sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Bonnie Bishop of Bloomery, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 36 months incarceration for heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Bishop, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance” in May 2017. Bishop admitted to conspiring with others to distribute heroin in Hampshire County in July 2015.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski 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 possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Shanks, West Virginia man was sentenced today to 51 months incarceration for possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Allen Newcomb, age 58, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography” in May 2017. Newcomb admitted to possessing child pornography containing children under the age of 12 in June 2016 in Hampshire County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Office of Homeland Security investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Hampshire County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – An Augusta, West Virginia man pled guilty today to a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
James Albert Slonaker, age 48, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearms.” 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.
Slonaker 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 defendants.
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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County woman admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – An Inwood, West Virginia woman pled guilty today to a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Julie Elizabeth Lipscomb, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm.” Lipscomb admitted to making a false statement wen purchasing two firearms. The crime occurred in August 2015 in Jefferson County.
Lipscomb 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 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County man sentenced for illegally possessing a firearmRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia man was sentenced today to 84 months incarceration for illegal possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Anthony Jerome Addison, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in June 2017. Addison admitted to possession a rifle in Jefferson County in June 2016. Addison, having previously been convicted of distribution of cocaine base in United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia, is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Berkeley County man sentenced for his role in a heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles Wright, 37, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 48 months incarceration for heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Wright pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering” in June 2017. Wright admitted to traveling between Maryland and West Virginia to aid in a heroin distribution operation in March 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Twenty-nine people indicted for stolen firearms and methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Twenty-nine people have been named in two indictments handed down by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on August 29, 2017, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
The first indictment was handed down alleging that a group of individuals from West Virginia conspired with one another to steal a large amount of firearms, sell those firearms, and barter those firearms for drugs in Upshur County, West Virginia and elsewhere from October 2016 to August 2017.
Those named in the 19-count firearms indictment are:• Michael Lynn Lough, 32, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Timothy Glen Woods, 28, French Creek, West Virginia
• Lisa Kay Knight, 24, Upshur, West Virginia
• Johnny Lee Riley, 28, Ellamore, West Virginia
• Dustin Cain Anderson, 23, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Benjamin Tyler Nazelrod, 26, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Aaron Matthew McLain, 36, Volga, West Virginia
• Carla Denise Jones, 55, Volga, West Virginia
• Bobby Ray Johnson, Jr., 27, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Roger Lee Clem, II, aka “Woody,” 30, Weston, West Virginia
• Kimberly A. Warner, aka “Kimmie,” 26, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Danielle Paige Tanner, 22, Glen Allen, VirginiaThe second indictment was handed down, alleging another group of individuals from West Virginia conspired with one another to distribute methamphetamine in Upshur County from March 2016 to August 2017.
Those named in the 50-count methamphetamine distribution indictment are:
• Amanda Mae Bachman, aka “AB,” 33, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Rocky Douglas Idleman,, 38, Clarksburg, West Virginia
• Thunderbolt Dean Whaley, 40, French Creek, West Virginia
• Cassandra Tahj Riffle, aka “Cassie Hickman,” 31, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Melissa Ann Masuga, 33, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Elizabeth Ellen Golden, aka “Liz,” 42, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Steven Larry Harper, aka “Skip,” 39, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Reggie Joe McLain, 37, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Brett Allen Reed, 23, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Jerry Lee Stewart, Jr., 27, Weston, West Virginia
• Angela Dawn White, 46, Buckhannon, West Virginia
• Clarrisa Michelle Adkins, 24, Wallace, West Virginia
• Michael Lewis Woodyard, 26, Clarksburg, West Virginia
• Crystal Michelle Haggarty, 34, Bridgeport, West Virginia
• Cassie Chase Poland, 18, Fairmont, West Virginia
• Casey Jo Richards, 28, Bridgeport, West Virginia
• Austin Jay Robinson, 18, Belington, West Virginia“This case is one more example of what can be achieved when law enforcement agencies collaborate and work together to rid our communities of illegally-obtained weapons and drugs. We will continue these efforts to prosecute those who continue to plague our state with methamphetamines and other harmful illegal substances,” said Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, Acting U.S. Attorney.
“Today’s round-up is the result of a comprehensive investigation of a regionally significant armed drug trafficking organization based in Upshur County, West Virginia, that not only distributed large amounts of methamphetamine, but also endangered the public through the illegal acquisition, use and transfer of firearms as part of their criminal activity. This case is an outstanding example of the success law enforcement can have when agencies work together to protect the public we serve,” said Stuart L. Lowrey, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Louisville Field Division (KY/WV).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 are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Jefferson County woman admits to filing a false tax returnRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Ranson, West Virginia woman pled guilty today to filing a false tax return, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Christina Jacobs, age 42, pled guilty to one count of “Filing a False Tax Return.” Jacobs admitted to filing an Income Tax Return for her and her husband in 2012, willfully understating her income from 9 West Hair Studio by approximately $32,030.70, resulting in an unpaid tax due and owing of approximately $9,394.00.
Jacobs faces up to three years incarceration and a fine of up to $100,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Internal revenue Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Jefferson County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia man pled guilty today to a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Joshua Craig Grove, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm.” The crime occurred on September 11, 2015 in Jefferson County.
Grove 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 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Berkeley County man sentenced for oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Ernest Marshall, 34, of Charles Town, West Virginia, was sentenced in federal court today to eight months incarceration for distributing oxycodone, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Marshall admitted to distributing oxycodone in Jefferson County, West Virginia in June 2016. He pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone” in November 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti and 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.
Monongalia County man indicted on campaign fraud chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Morgantown, West Virginia man was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges related to campaign fraud, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
James L. Laurita, Jr., age 57, was indicted on one count of “Scheme to Cause False Statements to Federal Election Commission,” two counts of “Causing Contributions in the Name of Another,” two counts of “Causing Excessive Contributions ,” and two counts of “Causing False Statement to Federal Election Commission.” Laurita, former president and CEO of Mepco, LLC, of Morgantown, is accused of devising a scheme to unlawfully use employees of Mepco, LLC and their spouses to make campaign contributions to several federal campaigns with company funds. The crimes are alleged to have occurred from March 2010 to July 2013 in Northern District of West Virginia and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Preston County woman admits to oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Kingwood, West Virginia woman pled guilty today to her role in an oxycodone distribution operation, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Carlee Cuppet, 25, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” She admitted to selling oxycodone on September 9, 2015 in Monongalia County.
Cuppet 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 case 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.
Marshall County woman sentenced for cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Moundsville, West Virginia woman was sentenced today to 70 months incarceration for cocaine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Sodonna M. Nuce, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base” in August 2017. She admitted to distributing cocaine in Marshall County on February 7, 2017.
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.
Hardy County man admits to methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Wardensville, West Virginia man pled guilty today to a methamphetamine charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Grant Sager, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Material used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.” The crime occurred on June 21, 2016 in Hardy County.
Sager 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 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hardy County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Virginia man admits to his role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Berrysville, Virginia man has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Kevin L. Navarro, 24, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine - Aiding and Abetting.” He admitted to conspiring with another person to distribute methamphetamine in Hardy County, West Virginia in October 2016.
Navarro 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.Marion County man sentenced for mail fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Eric Warner, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Mail Fraud” in June 2017. Warner 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. Warner also admitted his role in procuring an insurance settlement check in someone else’s name in the amount of $46,500.
Warner was also 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.
Marion County man sentenced for mail fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Fairmont, West Virginia man was sentenced today 33 months incarceration for mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Michael Sine, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Mail Fraud” in June 2017. Sine admitted to participating in a staged vehicle accident, faking injuries from said accident, and filing false insurance claims resulting in a $41,000 settlement. The crime happened between May 2013 and October 2013 in Marion County.
Sine was also ordered to pay $74,653.42 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.
Ohio man admits to trafficking heroin and cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Youngstown man admitted today to trafficking heroin and cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Daryl “Malik” Walter Hall, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Cocaine Base.” The crime occurred between August 2016 to April 2017 in Hancock County.
Hall 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 defendants.
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 R. Stamp, Jr., presided.Martinsburg men indicted on drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Martinsburg, West Virginia men were indicted by a federal grand jury on July 25, 2017 of drug distribution charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Christopher Deshaun Walker, age 28, was indicted on two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base,” one count of “Distribution of Heroin,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.”
Henry Aaron Shepherd, age 36, was indicted on one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin.”
The crimes are alleged to have occurred from May to November 2015 in Berkeley County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drugs & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Marion County man sentenced for mail fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Fairmont, West Virginia man was sentenced today to six months incarceration for mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Bryce Martin, age 26, of Fairmont, pled guilty to one count of “Mail Fraud” in June 2017. Martin 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. Martin also admitted his role in procuring an insurance settlement check in someone else’s name in the amount of $46,500.
Martin 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.
Jefferson County man admits to mail fraudRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Kearneysville, West Virginia man pled guilty to mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Daniel Lichtman, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Mail Fraud.” Lichtman admitted to filing false insurance claims totaling $354,552.26. The crime happened November 2013 in Berkeley County.
Lichtman faces up to twenty years incarceration and a $250,000 fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Jefferson County man admits to cocaine chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Ranson, West Virginia man pled guilty today to distributing cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Ricardo Lewis, Jr., aka BOLO, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substance.” The crime is alleged to have occurred from August 2015 to July 2016 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.
Lewis 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 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Clarksburg woman sentenced for mail fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia woman was sentenced today to 21 months incarceration for mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Chasity Costilow, age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Mail Fraud” in May 2017. Costilow admitted to taking part in a staged vehicular accident in September 2012 in Marion County. She also admitted to faking injuries from said accident and filing a false insurance claim, from which she received a settlement of approximately $60,000.
Costilow was also ordered to pay $65, 096.84 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.
Michigan man admits to heroin trafficking chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Detroit, Michigan man pled guilty today to a drug trafficking charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Wali “Black” Murphy, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Murphy admitted to selling heroin in September 2016 in Monongalia County.
Murphy 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 prosecuting 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.Lewis County woman admits to her role in an oxycodone distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Makyna Kancso, of Crawford, West Virginia, pled guilty today to an oxycodone distribution charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Kancso, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” She admitted to distributing oxycodone in Upshur County in June 2015.
Kancso 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 case 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.
Clarksburg man sentenced for firearm offensesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Plaugher, of Clarksburg, Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for making false statements in purchasing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Plaugher, age 26, pled guilty to two counts of “False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm.” He admitted to falsely representing that he was the actual buyer of four pistols when he was actually attempting to purchase the firearms on behalf of another buyer. The crimes occurred in October 2014 and January 2015 in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted 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.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Monongalia County woman admits to her role in an oxycodone distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Bobbie Jo Phillips, of Morgantown, West Virginia, pled guilty today to an oxycodone and cocaine distribution charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Phillips, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” He admitted to using a phone to aide in the distribution of oxycodone and cocaine in Monongalia County in March 2017.
Phillips 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 Valley Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Plans Interactive Family EventRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Families from across the Ohio Valley will have the chance to see their favorite emergency response, military and construction vehicles up close this weekend, thanks to the United States Attorney’s Office, Cabela’s, first responders, and other businesses in our community.
Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen is proud to announce the second annual “Meet and Greet the Safety Fleet” offering children and their families and chance to “touch a truck.” Participants can sit in their favorite vehicles, take pictures, and meet those who keep our communities safe.
“We are thrilled to once again offer this event, supporting positive interactions with the children in our area and first responders, as well as honoring those who serve our communities and country every day,” said Jividen.
The event is open and free to the public. It will be held Saturday, September 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cabela’s in Triadelphia. There will be character appearances, Travis Braden’s racecar, and a special appearance of AirEvac’s medical helicopter.
Youngstown man admits to trafficking cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dennis Lee Artis, of Youngstown, Ohio admitted today to 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.” 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.
Tyler County man admits to illegal possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jamie Villono, of Sistersville, West Virginia, admitted to illegally possessing firearms, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Villono, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” Villono, having previously been convicted of breaking and entering in Tyler County Circuit Court, admitting to having in his possession a 30-30 caliber rifle, a.22 caliber rifle, a.22-250 caliber rifle, and a .223 caliber rifle. The crime occurred in October 2016 in Tyler County.
Villono faces up to ten years 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.Pleasants County man admits to methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - Glenn Edgor Pryor, of St. Marys, West Virginia, pled guilty today to a methamphetamine distribution charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Pryor, age 60, was pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” He admitted to selling methamphetamine in Pleasants County in July 2016.
Pryor 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Pleasants County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Harrison County woman sentenced for conspiring with others to distribute illegal drugsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Megan Eileen Dunigan, 29, of Mount Clare, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 36 months incarceration for possession and distribution of an illegal substance, Acting United States Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Dunigan pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute MAM2201 and Buprenorphine” in July 2017. She admitted to having conspiring with others to distribute illegal substances in Harrison County, West Virginia from April 2014 to April 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, The West Virginia State Police, and the Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Clarksburg woman sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Danna J. Hern, 31, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 51 months incarceration for heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Hern pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess With the Intent to Deliver Heroin” in September 2016.
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, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Virginia man sentenced for his role in a meth distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Lewis Jones, of Waynesboro, Virginia, was sentenced today to 168 months incarceration for methamphetamine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Jones, age 55, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” in March 2017. Jones admitted to conspiring with others to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine in the Northern District of West Virginia and elsewhere. The crime occurred from May 2013 until October 2016.
There was also a forfeiture judgement in the amount of $4,499.00, the amount seized in this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Ohio woman sentenced for illegally possessing a firearm and assaulting a U.S. MarshalRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Peggy Chaffin, 38, of Portsmouth, Ohio, was sentenced today to 112 months incarceration for illegally possessing a gun and using said gun to obstruct a Deputy U. S. Marshal, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Chaffin admitted being a felon in possession of a .22 caliber rifle. She was previously convicted of felony heroin possession and distribution in the Eastern District of Kentucky in August 2013. Chaffin also admitted to using that gun to obstruct, assault, and resist a Deputy U.S. Marshal in Orlando, West Virginia, in November 2015.
Chaffin pled guilty to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Assaulting, Obstructing, or Resisting a Federal Officer” in February 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Braxton County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Harrison County man indicted on illegal firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Salem, West Virginia man was indicted by a federal grand jury of unlawful possession of a firearm charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Justin Paul Crofford, age 35, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession of an Unlawful Firearm.” Crofford, having previously been convicted of a felony in Smith County, Texas Circuit Court, is accused of possessing a 12-gauge shotgun. The crime is alleged to have occurred in January 2017 in Harrison County, West Virginia.
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 are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County man indicted on illegal firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Shinnston, West Virginia man was indicted by a federal grand jury of unlawful possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Steven Scott Nestor, age 34, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Nestor, having previously been convicted of a felony in Harrison County Circuit Court, is accused of possessing a 9mm caliber pistol. The crime is alleged to have occurred in May 2017 in Harrison County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Randolph County man sentenced for his role in a meth distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jerry “Jake” Wilson Hartley of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 240 months incarceration for methamphetamine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Hartley, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine,” in April 2017. Hartley admitted to conspiring with others to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine in the Northern District of West Virginia and elsewhere. The crime occurred from May 2013 until October 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Grant County man sentenced for firearm chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Petersburg, West Virginia man was sentenced today to 110 months incarceration for a firearm violation, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Benjamin Wayne Hyre, 37, pled guilty to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm” in April 2017. Hyre, having previously been convicted of two separate felonies in Grant County Circuit Court, admitted to having in his possession a .22-250 caliber rifle. The crime occurred in March 2016 in Grant County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Bureau of Prisons Employee Sentenced for Providing Marijuana to PrisonerRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cody Tyler Layman of Terra Alta, West Virginia, was sentenced today to eight months incarceration for providing an inmate with marijuana, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen and Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Special Agent-in-Charge Michael P. Tompkins announced.
Layman, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Introduction of a Prohibited Object - Marijuana” in April 2017. Layman admitted to providing an inmate with marijuana at the United States Penitentiary Hazelton on August 27, 2016.
“The introduction of contraband into our facilities is an issue of critical concern,” said Acting United States Attorney Betsy Jividen, “as it places both staff and population at significant risk of harm. When the contraband is introduced by an officer, who is empowered with a position of trust and authority, the violation is an egregious affront to the rule of law, and to the thousands of correctional workers everywhere who serve at great personal risk and peril for the greater good of all.”
Layman resigned from his position at the USP during the investigation.“Corruption of those who work in our prisons undermines the public’s faith in the criminal justice system,” stated Office of the Inspector General Special Agent-in-Charge Michael P. Tompkins. “The OIG is committed to investigating these cases to help ensure that those who engage in corruption and misconduct are brought to justice.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Doddridge County man sentenced for illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARSKBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Greenwood, West Virginia man was sentenced today to 81 months incarceration for illegal possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Thomas Charles Goodwine, 23, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in April 2017. Goodwine, having been convicted of two felonies in Pennsylvania, admitted to having in his possession a 9mm caliber pistol. The crime occurred in January 2016 in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Maryland man admits to distributing heroinRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Gwynn Oak, Maryland man pled guilty today to heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Dennis Royster, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Royster admitted to distributing heroin in Berkeley County in August 2014.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Lehman 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.Wheeling man admits to cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Wheeling, West Virginia man pled guilty today to cocaine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Sylvester “Sly” Walker, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” He admitted to distributing cocaine near Luau Manor in Ohio County on January 25, 2017.
Walker 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 Randolph J. Bernard prosecuted 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.
Jefferson County man admits to illegal firearm chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Charles Town, West Virginia man pled guilty today to unlawfullly possessing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Darnell Antonio Gardner, age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Gardner, having previously been convicted of a felony in Prince George’s County, Maryland, had a .40 caliber pistol in Jefferson County in June 2016.
Gardner faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County man admits to possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Wesley Chalk, of Inwood, West Virginia, pled guilty today to possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Chalk, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” 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.
Chalk faces up to twenty years 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 U.S. Department of Homeland Security investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.Two Maryland men indicted on bank fraud chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Baltimore, Maryland men were indicted by a federal grand jury on August 9, 2017 sitting in Wheeling on bank fraud charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Steven Allen Baldwin, Jr., age 34, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud” and three counts of “Bank Fraud.”
Tyrone Baldwin, age 31, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud” and three counts of Bank Fraud.”
Both are accused of stealing checks from mailboxes, creating counterfeit checks, and cashing those counterfeit checks. The crimes are alleged to have taken place in April 2016 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties, West Virginia.
It is alleged that more than $9,000 was taken in this case. The government is seeking to forfeit the amount of alleged proceeds in this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Grant County residents admit to heroin distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Grant County man and woman pled guilty today to heroin distribution charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Cody Zane Stevenson, age 24, pled guilty to a one count information, charging him with “Distribution of Heroin - Aiding and Abetting.” Stevenson admitted to distributing heroin in May 2016 in Grant County, West Virginia.
Amanda Lynn Bow, 22, pled guilty to a one count information, charging him with “Distribution of Heroin - Aiding and Abetting.” Bow admitted to distributing heroin in May 2016 in Grant County, West Virginia.
Stevenson and Bow each face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Pleasants County man admits to selling methamphetamineRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A St. Marys, West Virginia man pled guilty today to a methamphetamine distribution charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Roger Dale Doehring, age 54, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine - Aiding and Abetting.” Doehring admitted to selling methamphetamine in December 2016 in Pleasants County, West Virginia.
Doehring 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Pleasants County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Harrison County man sentenced for drug possessionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eric Scott Barker, of Mount Clare, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months incarceration for drug possession, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Barker, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Para-Fluorofentanyl” in June 2017. The crime took place in Doddridge County on September 15, 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service, the West Virginia State Police, and the Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.