Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Contractor for Division of Highways and Former Division of Highways employee sentenced for their roles in pay-to-play schemeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A contractor for Division of Highways and former Division of Highways employee were sentenced today their roles in a pay-to-play scheme, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Mark Rudolph Whitt, 52, of Winfield, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years probation for wire fraud. Whit was also ordered to pay $250,000 in restitution to the State of West Virginia.
Whitt was the president and owner of Bayliss and Ramey, Inc., which was awarded the statewide signal maintenance contract in 2009. Whitt admitted in December 2016 that he used the contract to funnel construction work to Dennis Corporation. He benefited financially for helping to conceal the illegal flow of funds from the Division of Highways to Dennis Corporation. He pled guilty to one count of “Wire Fraud Conspiracy.”
Debarment proceedings have been initiated against Whitt and his former company to preclude their further involvement in any State contracts. In addition, the investigation resulted in the recovery of over a quarter million dollars illegally obtained by Whitt, which the United States is returning to the State of West Virginia.
“Among the prosecution priorities of cases such as this one are the exposure of corruption by public officials and restitution to victims,” said Acting United States Attorney Betsy C. Jividen. Jividen stated that the United States Attorney’s Office will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute cases of public corruption against public servants who enrich themselves at the expense of the public they are sworn to serve.
In a related case, James Travis Miller, 40, of Hurricane, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years probation for laundering money.
Miller worked for the Division of Highways before leaving to work for Dennis Corporation. He admitted in December 2016 that he delivered covert payments to a West Virginia Divisions of Highways employee in exchange for official actions that were done in favor of Dennis Corporation. He pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Public Corruption Unit, which includes the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and the West Virginia State Police.
Citizens with information regarding public corruption in their community are encouraged to call the West Virginia Public Corruption Hotline at 855-WVA-FEDS (855-982-3337), or to send an email to [email protected].
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. 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.
Dale Wesley Jenkins, Jr., also known as Buddy, age 56, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Jenkins admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 2016 in Pleasants County, West Virginia.
Jenkins 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John Michael Aloi presided.
Two Pennsylvania men and two West Virginia men indicted on drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Philadelphia-area, Pennsylvania men and two Wheeling, West Virginia man were indicted by a federal grand jury on August 9, 2017 on drug distribution charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Kevin J. Washington, Jr., age 29, of Glenholden, Pennsylvania was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Oxycodone” and one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.”
James R. Stewart a/k/a James R. Steward, Jr., age 31, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Oxycodone,” two counts of “Distribution of Cocaine,” and two counts of “Distribution of Oxycodone.”
Brent T. Leoffler, age 37, and Deion J. Jones, age 26, both of Wheeling, West Virginia, were each indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Oxycodone” and one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.”
The crimes are alleged to have taken place from 2012 to August 2017 in Ohio County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ohio woman admits to trafficking heroin and cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – An East Liverpool woman pled guilty to heroin and cocaine trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Michelle Green, age 48, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Green admitted to distributing heroin near Allison Elementary School in Hancock County. The crime occurred in March 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.Wheeling man admits to failing to update his sex offender registryRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Wheeling man pled guilty today to failing to update his sex offender registration, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Jeremy Crinkey, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Update Registration as a Sex Offender.” Crinkey, having previously being convicted of Possession of Child Pornography in U.S. District Court, Northern District of West Virginia, allegedly failed to update his registry to his North 8th Street, Wheeling, address. The crime occurred from March 17, 2017 to May 30, 2017 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Tyler County man indicted on meth distribution and illegal firearm chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Middlebourne, West Virginia man was indicted by a federal grand jury on drug distribution charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
William “Jack” Parr, age 51, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine,” two counts of “Distribution of methamphetamine,” and one count of “Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.”
The crimes are alleged to have taken place from 2015 to August 2017 in Tyler County, West Virginia.Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Ohio men admit to deriving unlawful profits from federal grantsRead the Press Release
HEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Steubenville, Ohio men pled guilty today in federal court for their roles in manipulating business development programs facilitated by the United States Small Business Administration and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to derive unlawful profits of approximately twenty-four million dollars, Criminal Chief Assistant United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Michael J. Marshall, 66, and Brandt Stover, 63, each pled guilty to one count of “Attempt and Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud.” Marshall and Stover admitted to being involved in a scheme to defraud the United States Government where they violated regulations to enter in to and remain in programs for disadvantaged individuals and disabled veterans. They were awarded disadvantaged contracts worth more than $140,000,000 from February 2003 to October 2014.
The Small Business Administration operates programs to assist socially or economically disadvantaged business operators, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs assists disabled veterans in competing for government contracts. The businesses must be unconditionally owned and controlled by the qualifying individuals in order to comply with federal law.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., and Andrew Cogar prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Ohio woman pleads guilty to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Dennison, Ohio woman admitted to an illegal firearm charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Erin Marie Rudolph, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” 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 investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Marshall County men indicted on drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Moundsville, West Virginia man and a McMechen, West Virginia man were indicted by a federal grand jury on drug distribution charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Rhett D. Gump, age 24, of Moundsville, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location,” one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl in Proximity to a Protected Location,” and one count of “Distribution of Heroin.”
William A. Novick, age 35, of McMechen, was indicted on four counts of “Distribution of Heroin” and one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl in Proximity to a Protected Location.”The crimes are alleged to have taken place in January and February 2017 in Ohio and Marshall Counties, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Marshall County man indicted on drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Moundsville, West Virginia man was indicted by a federal grand jury on drug distribution charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Ronald Lee Shaw, also known as “Fuzz,” age 45, was indicted on five counts of “Distribution of Cocaine within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine.”
The crimes are alleged to have taken place from April to June 2017 in Ohio County, West Virginia.Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Four men indicted on illegal alien chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Mexican men, a Nicaraguan man, and a man from El Salvador have been indicted by a federal grand jury on reentry of a removed alien charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.Elias Rojas-Zapata, age 30, of Nicaragua, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Rojas-Zapata, having previously been removed from Louisiana, allegedly was found in Brooke County in June 2017 without consent.
Mauro Nieto-Garcia, age 26, of Mexico, and Noe Jacinto-Nieto, age 26, also of Mexico, were each indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Nieto-Garcia, and Jacinto-Neito, each having previously been removed from Arizona, allegedly were found in Ohio County in June 2017 without consent.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting all three cases on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the Brooke County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the Rojas-Zapata case. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the Bethlehem Police Department are investigating the Nieto-Garcia and Jacinto-Nieto cases.
Miguel Angel Melendez-Lopez, age 37, of El Salvador, was also indicted on indicted one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Melendez-Lopez has previously been removed from Newark, New Jersey and Atlanta, Georgia, allegedly was found in Ohio County without consent in July 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the Melendez-Lopez case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the West Virginia State Police are investigating the Melendez-Lopez case.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Marshall County residents and an Ohio man admit to cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Moundsville, West Virginia residents and a South Euclid, Ohio man pled guilty today to 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.” Justin L. Nash pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” The two admitted to distributing cocaine in Marshall County on February 7, 2017.
Edward L. Haynes, age 44, of South Euclid, Ohio pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” He admitted to distributing cocaine in Marshall County in April 2016.
Nuce, Nash, and Haynes 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. prosecuted the cases 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.
Federal inmate found guilty of murder of fellow prisonerRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal inmate at the U.S. Penitentiary in Hazelton, West Virginia, was convicted by a jury in federal court today for murdering another inmate, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen.
Kevin Marquette Bellinger, 36, formerly of Washington, D.C., was found guilty of one count of murder by a federal prisoner serving a life sentence and one count of second degree murder in a federal facility for his role in the Oct. 7, 2007, murder of fellow inmate Jesse Harris.
Bellinger and fellow inmate, Patrick Andrews, stabbed Harris to death with homemade knives in an orchestrated attack. According to evidence introduced during Bellinger’s trial, while a group of inmates were being moved from the recreation yard back to their cells, Andrews and Bellinger confronted Harris and repeatedly stabbed him. In less than a minute, a correctional officer approached and the attackers fled. Officers apprehended Andrews after reviewing surveillance footage, which showed Andrews and Bellinger engaged in a verbal confrontation with Harris, followed by the two attackers wielding weapons and assaulting Harris, who was unarmed and backing away from them. Harris ultimately died from multiple stab wounds sustained during the attack.
At the time of the murder, Bellinger was serving a sentence of 15 years to life for an assault with intent to kill that took place in 2000.Bellinger was convicted in this case by a federal jury on June 16, 2014 and sentenced to life in prison. That conviction was overturned on appeal in June 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew R. Cogar and Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. This case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Former Division of Highways employee sentenced for his role in pay-to-play schemeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Bruce E. Kenney, III, 61, of Norfolk, Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months incarceration on each of the two counts, to be served concurrently, for wire and tax fraud charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Kenney admitted that he used his position in the Traffic Engineering Division of the West Virginia Division of Highways to bypass normal state procedures and funnel structure inspection work to the Dennis Corporation in exchange for covert payments totaling approximately $200,000. He entered a guilty plea to one count of “Honest Services Wire Fraud Conspiracy,” and also to one count of “Conspiracy to Impede the Internal Revenue Service” in December 2016.
Kenney was ordered to pay $34,714 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service, which represents the amount of tax loss. Kenney was also ordered to pay a forfeiture money judgment of $162,536.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Public Corruption Unit, which includes the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and the West Virginia State Police.
Citizens with information regarding public corruption in their community are encouraged to call the West Virginia Public Corruption Hotline at 855-WVA-FEDS (855-982-3337), or to send an email to [email protected].
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Virginia man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Wilbur Reid, Jr., of Roanoke, Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration for possessing heroin, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Reid, age 42, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” in April 2017. Reid admitted to committing the crime in September 2016 in Berkeley County.
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.
Two Eastern Panhandle residents indicted on drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Kearneysville, West Virginia residents were indicted by a federal grand jury on July 25, 2017 on drug distribution charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Gerald Gibbs, age 29, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance,” two counts of “Distribution of a Controlled Substance,” and two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.”
Jennifer Gibbs, age 31, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance,” two counts of “Distribution of a Controlled Substance,” and two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.”
The crimes are alleged to have taken place from June 2016 to March 2017 in Jefferson County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney’s Office spreads anti-bullying message at National Night OutRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The United States Attorney’s Office will join law enforcement and community leaders on Tuesday, August 1, in Bridgeport, Clarksburg, Martinsburg, and Wheeling as part of the annual National Night Out crime and drug prevention event, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen.
National Night Out is meant to strengthen relationships between the community and law enforcement, heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, and help make our neighborhoods safer.
“Building positive community relationships is a top law enforcement priority. It’s vitally important that our office, and others across our district, participate in events such as this one to help spread awareness and keep our communities great places to live and work,” said Jividen.
The United States Attorney’s Office will be present at four National Night Out events, to include the events at the Bridgeport City Pool in Bridgeport, the VA Park in Clarksburg, the War Memorial Park in Martinsburg, and Wheeling Park in Wheeling. Each of these events will begin at 6 p.m.
National Night Out organizers are expecting over 16,000 communities and 38 million people to take part in community events on Tuesday across the country.
U.S. Attorney’s Office spreads anti-bullying message at National Night OutRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The United States Attorney’s Office will join law enforcement and community leaders on Tuesday, August 1, in Bridgeport, Clarksburg, Martinsburg, and Wheeling as part of the annual National Night Out crime and drug prevention event, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen.
National Night Out is meant to strengthen relationships between the community and law enforcement, heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, and help make our neighborhoods safer.
“Building positive community relationships is a top law enforcement priority. It’s vitally important that our office, and others across our district, participate in events such as this one to help spread awareness and keep our communities great places to live and work,” said Jividen.
The United States Attorney’s Office will be present at four National Night Out events, to include the events at the Bridgeport City Pool in Bridgeport, the VA Park in Clarksburg, the War Memorial Park in Martinsburg, and Wheeling Park in Wheeling. Each of these events will begin at 6 p.m.
National Night Out organizers are expecting over 16,000 communities and 38 million people to take part in community events on Tuesday across the country.
Wood County woman sentenced for bank robberies in three statesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Davisville, West Virginia woman was sentenced today to 51 months incarceration for bank robberies spanning three states, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Christine Joy Martin, 31, pled guilty to three counts of “Unarmed Bank Robbery” in April 2017. Martin was sentenced to 51 months incarceration for each count, to run concurrently. Martin was also ordered to pay $7,889.44 in restitution.
Martin admitted to robbing Huntington Bank in Marion County of $2,000 on November 4, 2016. She also admitted to robbing WesBanco Bank in Washington County, Pennsylvania, of $350.00 on December 23, 2016 and admitted to robbing the People’s Bank in Athens County, Ohio of $2,150 on December 27, 2016. Martin has waived venue on the charges in Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Morgantown Police Department and the Fairmont Police Department investigated the bank robbery in West Virginia. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the South Strabane Township Police Department investigated the Pennsylvania robbery. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Athens City Police Department investigated the Ohio robbery.
U. S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Marshall County physician indicted on health care fraud chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A physician with a pain management clinic in McMechen, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling on June 6, 2017 on health care fraud, mail fraud, and wire fraud charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Dr. Roland F. Chalifoux, Jr., age 57, of St. Clairsville, Ohio, was indicted on eleven counts of “Health Care Fraud for Travel Dates,” seven counts of “Mail Fraud,” four counts of “Wire Fraud,” and four counts of “Health Care Fraud.” The crimes are alleged to have occurred from 2008 to June 2017 in Marshall County and elsewhere in the Northern District of West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the West Virginia Insurance Fraud Investigation Unit are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Jefferson County man indicted heroin distribution chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - A Charles Town, West Virginia man has been indicted by a federal grand jury on a heroin distribution charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Ryan Jackson, age 39, is charged with one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Jackson allegedly distributed a mixture of heroin and fentanyl in Jefferson County in October 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County man sentenced for unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher C. Cozad, of Mount Clare, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration for illegal possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Cozad, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in March 2017. Cozad, having previously convicted of felony fleeing from an officer in Harrison County in 2011, admitted to possessing a Smith & Wesson 5.56 caliber firearm in April 2016 in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau for Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
El Salvador man indicted on an illegal alien chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – An El Salvador man has been indicted by a federal grand jury on a reentry of a removed alien charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Jose Angel Gabriel Palma-Erazo, age 31, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Palma-Erazo, having previously been removed from Texas, allegedly was found in Berkeley County in June 2017 without consent.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Virginia resident convicted of identity theftRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Virginia resident was convicted today of identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Angela Roberts, age 41, of Stephenson, Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Identity Theft.” Roberts admitted to using another’s identifying information to commit bank fraud. The crime occurred June 27, 2016 in Berkeley County, West Virginia.
Roberts 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
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Wheeling man sentenced for illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeffrey Moran, 45, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months incarceration for illegally possessing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Moran, who had previously been convicted of a felony offenses of drug possession in Ohio County and a misdemeanor conviction of domestic violence, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He admitted to possessing a .22 caliber pistol, a 12-guage shotgun and a 20-guage shotgun in Ohio County, West Virginia in December 2016.
Moran pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in May 2017.
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 West Virginia Department of Natural Resources investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Belmont County, Ohio man sentenced for oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Brent M. Gorshe, 28, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, was sentenced today to 84 months incarceration for distributing oxycodone, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Gorshe pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Oxycodone” in February 2017. The crime took place in Ohio County and elsewhere from 2013 to 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Two people convicted for their role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two West Virginia residents were convicted today of their roles in a methamphetamine distribution operation, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
June Catherine Blanchek, 37, of Petersburg, West Virginia pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.”
John Wayne Crites, 45, of Moorefield, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.”
Blanchek and Crites admitted to working with others to distribute more than 50 grams of crystal meth in Grant County between September 2014 and December 2016.
Blanchek and Crites 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 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.
Mineral County woman admits to failing to register as a sex offenderRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Keyser, West Virginia woman was convicted today of failing to register as a sex offender, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Bobbi Jo Starry, age 51, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.” Starry, having been convicted of third degree sexual assault in the Circuit Court of Berkeley County, admitted to traveling interstate commerce and failing to register and update her registration as a sex offender from January to May 2017.
Starry 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 Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Hancock County man convicted of drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Weirton, West Virginia, man was convicted today of distribution of a controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
John Anthony Lamantia, age 60, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Controlled Substances Outside the Course of Professional Practice.” Lamantia admitted to distributing alprazolam in Brooke County in April 2016.
Lamantia 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 Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.Pleasants County residents indicted on methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - Three St. Marys, West Virginia men were indicted by a federal grand jury on June 28, 2017 on methamphetamine distribution charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Glenn Edgor Pryor, age 60, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” and four counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.”
Dale Wesley Jenkins, Jr., also known as Buddy, age 56, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” and two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine - Aiding and Abetting.”
Roger Dale Doehring, age 54, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” and two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine - Aiding and Abetting.”
The crimes are alleged to have taken place from July 2016 to December 2016 in Pleasants County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Pleasants County Sheriff’s Office are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County man sentenced for cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ruben L. Aguilar, 29, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration for cocaine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Aguilar pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base” in February 2017. Aguilar distributed cocaine in Harrison County in March 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Jefferson County man convicted of firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Charles Town, West Virginia man was convicted today of a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Terry Edwards, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Edwards, having 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Taylor County man sentenced for illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rollie C. Poynter, Jr., 51, of Grafton, West Virginia, was sentenced today in federal court to 105 months, 11 day incarceration for illegal possession of a firearm, Acting United States Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Poynter, who had previously been convicted of felony offenses in West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky, admitted to having in his possession a .38 caliber revolver in Taylor County, West Virginia in April 2016. Poynter pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in May 2017.Poynter’s sentence will run concurrently with the state’s sentence presently being served.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office, and Grafton City Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Harrison County woman admits to conspiring with others to distribute illegal drugsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Megan Eileen Dunigan, 29, of Mount Clare, West Virginia, was convicted today in federal court of 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.” She admitted to having conspiring with others to distribute illegal substances in Harrison County, West Virginia from April 2014 to April 2016.
Dunigan faces up to 10 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 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.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Harrison County man convicted of drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Mount Clare, West Virginia, man was convicted today of drug possession, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Eric Scott Barker, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Para-Fluorofentanyl.” The crime took place in Doddridge County on September 15, 2016.
Barker faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, the West Virginia State Police, and the Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Wheeling man indicted on firearm, methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Wheeling, West Virginia, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on firearm and drug charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Peter Hankish, age 57, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Hankish, having previously been convicted of Theft in the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps General Court, allegedly possessed a 7.62 caliber rifle. Hankish is also accused of possessing methamphetamine. The crimes are alleged to have occurred in April 2017 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pleasants County woman indicted on charges involving the theft of social security benefitsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - A St. Marys, West Virginia woman was indicted by a federal grand jury on theft charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Anne Louise Hall, age 56, was indicted on one count of “False Statement for Use in Determining Supplemental Security Income Benefits,” one count of “Concealment of Event Affecting Right to Receive Supplemental Security Income Benefits,” one count of “False Statement to Federal Agent,” and one count of “Theft of Government Money.”
Hall allegedly made false claims in filing for social security benefits, which led to her allegedly fraudulently collecting more than $56,000 in benefits. The crimes allegedly occurred from October 2006 to March 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Guatemalan man indicted on an illegal alien chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Guatemalan man has been indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg on a reentry of a removed alien charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Ricardo Ramirez-Ramirez, age 34, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Ramirez-Ramirez, having previously been removed from Arizona, allegedly was found in Ohio County in May 2017 without consent.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the Wheeling Police Department are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Government contractor indicted on charges involving the theft and sale of government propertyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - A Virginia man was indicted by a federal grand jury on theft charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Richard Alan Millette, of Winchester, Virginia, age 29, was indicted on one count of “Theft of Government Property” and two counts 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 allegedly acquired 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 crimes are alleged to have occurred from March 2016 to March 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski and U.S. Department of Justice Attorney Jennifer Ballantyne are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of State Office of Inspector General is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Wheeling man indicted on firearm chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Wheeling man had his initial appearance in federal court today after being indicted on drug charges by a federal grand jury in Wheeling on June 6, 2017, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Levar Jermain Matthews, age 40, was indicted on 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, allegedly possessed a .38 special caliber revolver. The crime is alleged to have occurred in April 2017 in Ohio County.
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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Two men convicted of cigarette smuggling chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Virginia business owner and business manager were convicted of unlawful cigarette smuggling, Assistant United States Attorney, Criminal Chief Randolph J. Bernard announced today.
Manjoth Raj Singh, age 32, of Waldorf, Maryland, and Sukhdev Singh Virdi, age 45, of Dacula, Georgia, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Traffic in Untaxed Cigarettes .” Singh and Virdi admitted to conspiring to profit from the unlawful sale of contraband cigarettes.
Singh is the owner of American Cigarette Outlet, Inc., in Clearbrook, Virginia, which did business as Virginia Cigarette Outlet and Clearbrook Cigarettes and Virdi was the store manager. The two admitted to transporting 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.
Each of the defendants faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Stein prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. Homeland Security Investigations, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, the Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Martins Ferry, Ohio man convicted of cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martins Ferry, Ohio man was convicted today in federal court of 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.” 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.
Saunders faces 10 years to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10 million. 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 Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the Belmont County Drug Task Force, and the Martins Ferry, Ohio Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Two Virginia residents indicted on identity theft chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Virginia residents are named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Elkins, West Virginia on June 20, 2017, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Ajarhi Roberts, also known as Wayne Roberts , age 24, of Stephens City, Virginia, and Angela Roberts, age 41, of Stephenson, Virginia, were named in a 36-count indictment, charging them with identity theft, aggravated identity theft, producing false identity documents, and bank fraud.
Angela Roberts was employed by WVU Medicine University Healthcare in Martinsburg, West Virginia. It is alleged in the indictment that Angela Roberts would access her employer’s patient database to obtain names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, addresses, and driver’s license numbers. She then allegedly shared that information with Ajarhi Roberts, who is accused of opening credit card and other financial accounts in the patients’ names.
The crimes are alleged to have occurred from March 1, 2016 to January 31, 2017 in Berkeley County, West Virginia and elsewhere.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher 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.
Two Marshall County residents and an Ohio man indicted on cocaine distribution chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Marshall County residents and an Ohio man are named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Wheeling, West Virginia on June 6, 2017, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Sodonna M. Nuce, age 39, of Moundsville, West Virginia was charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Base” and three counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Edward L. Haynes, age 44, of South Euclid, Ohio is charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Possess With Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Base” and one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Justin L. Nash, age 32, of Moundsville, West Virginia is charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Possess With Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Base,” one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base,” and one count of “Possess With Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.”
The crimes are alleged to have occurred from October 2015 to June 2017 in Marshall County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ohio woman convicted of wire fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – An East Liverpool, Ohio woman was convicted today of stealing from her employer, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Danielle Varrati, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Wire Fraud.” Varrati admitted to wiring approximately $176,000 from her place of employment to her personal bank account. The crime occurred in Hancock County.
Varrati faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae Demasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Maryland man pleads guilty to making an illegal gunRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ian Nigel Page, 44, of Crownsville, Maryland, pled guilty to making an unlawful firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Page admitted to cutting the barrel of a Remmington 12-gauge shotgun to less than 18 inches in Preston County, West Virginia in May 2015.
Page pled guilty to one count of “Making an Unlawful Firearm.” He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Preston County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Marion County woman convicted of firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Fairmont, West Virginia woman was convicted today in federal court of a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Heather N. Windsor, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm.” Windsor admitted to making a false statement during the purchase of a 5.56 mm caliber pistol in July 2016 in Monongalia County.
Windsor 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Harrison County man convicted of drug chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia, man was convicted today of distribution of heroin near a playground, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Richard “Ricky” Joseph Malfregeot, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin in Proximity of a Protected Location.” Malfregeot admitted to selling heroin within 1,000 feet of North View Park in Harrison County on March 2, 2016.
Malfregeot faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Pleasants County man sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Johnny Silvester Edgell, of St. Marys, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration for methamphetamine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Edgell, age 54, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm by an Unlawful Drug User” in September 2016. Edgell admitted to selling methamphetamine in July 2015 in Pleasants County and possessing a .22 caliber pistol and a .22 caliber revolver in August 2015 in Pleasants County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, West Virginia State Police, and the Pleasants County Sheriff’s Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Three Belmont County residents indicted on drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Bridgeport, Ohio residents were arrested today after being indicted on drug charges by a federal grand jury in Wheeling on June 6, 2017, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Joseph Ivan Burt, age 39, and Faith Diane Leasure, age 22, were arrested on charges related to the distribution of cocaine. Both are charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Crack Cocaine,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Crack Cocaine,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Crack Cocaine,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Crack Cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school.” Burt is also facing one count of “Distribution of Crack Cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school,” one count of “Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility,” and an additional count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Crack Cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school.”
Also named in the indictment is Phillip Weir, of Bridgeport, Ohio, age 32. Weir is charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Crack Cocaine,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Crack Cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school.”The crimes are alleged to have occurred from August to September of 2016 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drugs & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U. S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.