Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Berkeley County man sentenced for federal firearms chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jonathan Leigh Wienke, 46, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for unlawfully making firearms, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Wienke pled guilty to one count of “Making a Firearm in Violation of the National Firearms Act” in December 2016.
On June 9, 2016, the Department of Homeland Security obtained a warrant to search Wienke’s home in Martinsburg, West Virginia. During that search, officers found a pistol with an attachment that appeared to be a silencer. The pistol and silencer were seized by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Testing confirmed that the attachment was a silencer capable of diminishing the sound report of a portable firearm, and that the silencer met the definition of a “firearm” under federal law. The silencer did not have any manufacturer’s mark of identification or serial number, as required by the National Firearms Act. The investigating agent learned that Wienke had manufactured the silencer, but did not have the requisite license or approval to manufacture a silencer, as required by the National Firearms Act.
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.
Virginia man pleads guilty to his role in a meth distribution operationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Lewis Jones, of Waynesboro, Virginia, was convicted today for methamphetamine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Jones, age 54, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” 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.
Jones faces up to thirty years and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Randolph County man pleads guilty to possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – William Kerr, Jr., of Elkins, West Virginia, was convicted today for possessing child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Kerr, age 74, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Kerr admitted to having a computer disk and other materials delivered to him through interstate commerce depicting images of prepubescent minors and minors under the age of 12.
Kerr 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Man sentenced for threatening to damage government buildingsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeremy E. Smith, 37, an incarcerated individual at the United States Penitentiary at Hazelton, was sentenced to 27 months incarceration for threatening to destroy government buildings, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Smith mailed threats to destroy buildings in Philadelphia, Boston, Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago on November 26, 2015. He pled guilty to one count of “Threat to Damage Buildings by Use of Explosives” in February 2017.
His sentence is to run consecutively to any sentence previously imposed or that he is currently serving.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service and the Special Investigative Services at USP Hazleton investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Harrison County man convicted for unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher C. Cozad, of Mount Clare, West Virginia, was convicted today in federal court 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.” Cozad, having previously convicted of felony fleeing from an officer in Harrison County in 2011, did possess a Smith & Wesson 5.56 caliber firearm. The crime is alleged to have occurred in April 2016 in Harrison County.
Cozad faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting 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. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced for oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shawn Collins, 44, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today in federal court to 37 months incarceration for the distribution of oxycodone, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Collins admitted that he sold oxycodone in Monongalia County in April 2015. He pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone” on October 4, 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Wheeling Island woman indicted for heroin and cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Carla Webb Daniels, of Wheeling Island, West Virginia, was indicted today by a federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg for allegedly distributing heroin near two Ohio County schools, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Daniels, age 56, was indicted on four counts of “Distribution of Heroin Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location,” and one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Daniels is accused of committing the crimes from January to March of this year in close proximity to Madison Elementary School on Wheeling Island and Wheeling Central Catholic High School in Wheeling.
Daniels faces up to forty years and a $2,000,000 fine for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force and the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, HIDTA-funded initiatives, investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Virginia man indicted for heroin and cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Wilbur Reid, Jr., of Roanoke, Virginia, was indicted today by a federal grand jury for allegedly possessing heroin and cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Reid, age 42, was indicted on one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Reid is accused of committing the crimes in September 2016 in Berkeley County.
Reid faces up to forty years and a $5,000,000 fine for the first count and up to twenty years and a $1,000,000 fine for the second count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
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, investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Preston County man convicted on firearm and methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard Star Haggarty, 37, of Albright, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court today for unlawful possession of a firearm and methamphetamine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Haggarty, who had previously been convicted of felony offenses in California, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He admitted to possessing 12 firearms and crystal meth in December 2016.
Haggarty pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” He faces up to 10 years and a $250,000 fine for the firearm count and up to 20 years and a $1,000,000 fine for the methamphetamine charge.
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 United States Marshals Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio woman indicted for wire fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – An East Liverpool, Ohio woman was indicted today by a federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg for allegedly stealing from her employer, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Danielle Varrati, age 37, was indicted for five counts of “Wire Fraud.” Varrati is accused of wiring approximately $176,000 from her place of employment to her personal bank account. The crimes are alleged to have occurred in Hancock County.
Varrati faces up to twenty years and a $250,000 fine for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae Demasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Man indicted on a firearm chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Kearneysville, West Virginia man was indicted today by a federal grand jury for a firearm violation, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
William Edwin Rogers, age 27, who had previously been convicted of a felony offense in Jefferson County, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He was indicted for one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” The crime is alleged to have occurred on April 27, 2016 in Berkeley County.
Rogers faces up to ten years 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 Anna Z. Krasinski is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Hardy County man indicted on firearm and methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Wardensville, West Virginia man was indicted today by a federal grand jury for a firearm violation and a methamphetamine charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Grant Sager, age 26, was indicted for one count of “Possession of Material used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Unlawful in Possession of a Firearm,” and one count of “Possession of an Unlawful Firearm.” The crimes are alleged to have occurred on June 21, 2016 in Hardy County.
Sager faces at up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the first two counts and up to ten years in prison and a $10,000 fine for the third count.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hardy County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Jefferson County man pleads guilty to his role in a heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph Killian, 35, of Ranson, West Virginia, was convicted of heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Killian admitted to possessing heroin in Berkeley County on June 29, 2016.
Killian pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin.” He faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Randolph County man pleads guilty to illegally possessing a gunRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA –Jason Randall Howard, 38, of Elkins, West Virginia, was convicted of illegally possessing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Howard, having previously been convicted in Randolph County of Domestic Battery, admitted to possessing a 9mm pistol in Randolph County in August 2016.
Howard pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
New York man pleads guilty to student loan fraudRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shiftan Shagabaev, 42, of Brooklyn, New York was convicted today for committing student loan fraud, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Shagabaev admitted to making a fraudulent statement on a student loan application in Jefferson County, West Virginia in December 2012.
Shagabaev pled guilty to one count of “Student Loan Fraud.” He faces up to one year in prison and a fine up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Department of Education investigated.U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Ohio County man sentenced for illegal possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Mark A. Simmons, 46, of Wheeling Island, West Virginia, was sentenced today in federal court to 15 months incarceration for illegally possessing firearms, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Simmons, who had previously been convicted of the felony offense of “Failure to Register or Provide Notice of Registration” in Marshall County, admitted to possessing a Beretta pistol in Ohio County in November 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Jefferson County woman pleads guilty to heroin distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brandi Kern, 22, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, was convicted of heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Kern admitted to using a telephone to distribute heroin in Jefferson County and elsewhere, including Baltimore, Maryland, in May 2016.
Kern pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” She faces up to four years in prison 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 Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Jefferson County man pleads guilty to heroin distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –William John Holmes, 29, of Ranson, West Virginia, was convicted of heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Holmes admitted to possessing heroin in Jefferson County in December 2015.
Holmes pled guilty to one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin.” He faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Agency, West Virginia State Police, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County man indicted on firearm chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg man was arrested today for a firearm violation, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Michael Eugene Decker, age 37, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was indicted on February 22, 2017 by a federal grand jury sitting in Elkins for “Armed Career Criminal Act.” The crime is alleged to have occurred on December 1, 2016 in Berkeley County.
Decker faces at least fifteen years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Martinsburg man sentenced for failing to register as a sex offenderRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dustin Andrew Parsons, 30, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today in federal court to 27 months incarceration for failing to register as a sex offender, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Parsons admitted to traveling in interstate commerce and failing to register and update his registration as a sex offender in Berkeley County, West Virginia. Parsons is required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act by reason of a conviction under state law.
Parsons pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Register” in December 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Jefferson County man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Clark Corbin, 41, of Ranson, West Virginia was sentenced in federal court today to 18 months incarceration for heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Corbin pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” in December 2016. He admitted to selling heroin in Jefferson County in February 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul T. Camilletti and 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 over the case.
Wood County woman indicted for several bank robberiesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Davisville, West Virginia woman has been indicted for bank robberies spanning two counties, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Christine Joy Martin, 31, was charged by a federal grand jury for two counts of “Unarmed Bank Robbery.” Martin is accused of robbing Huntington Bank in Marion County of $2,000 on November 4, 2016. She is also charged with robbing United Bank in Monongalia County of $964 on December 20, 2016.
Martin faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah W. Montoro is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Morgantown Police Department and the Fairmont Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Maryland man indicted for selling heroinRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Windsor Mill, Maryland man has been indicted for distributing heroin in West Virginia, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Frank Eubanks, III, 26, was charged by a federal grand jury sitting in Clarksburg for one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Eubanks is accused of selling heroin for $1,000 in Berkeley County on July 13, 2016.
Eubanks faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Elkins man indicted for manufacturing and using counterfeit moneyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony Francis Silvester, III, 37, of Elkins, West Virginia, was charged by a grand jury sitting in Clarksburg in a five-count indictment with making and possessing counterfeit money, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
The indictment charges that Silvester passed several counterfeit bills between August and November 2016 at various businesses in Elkins, West Virginia. The indictment also alleges that Silvester had in his possession $2,300 in counterfeit bills.
If convicted, Silvester faces up to 20 years and a $250,000 fine for each violation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah W. Montoro is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service, the West Virginia State Police, and the Elkins Police Department are investigating the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Eight charged with mail fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eight individuals have been charged with federal mail fraud as a result of an investigation in three North Central West Virginia counties, according to Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen.
Indictments were handed down today alleging that a group of individuals from West Virginia conspired with one another to conduct mail fraud in order to file false insurance claims totaling approximately $249,000 for staged vehicular accidents in Harrison, Taylor and Marion Counties from January 2012 to August 2014.
The defendants are:
• Dallas Lewis, Clarksburg, 55, Clarksburg, WV
• Martin Stoneking, 25, Fairmont, WV
• Charles Bonner, 34, Morgantown, WV
• Bryce Martin, 26, Fairmont, WV
• Eric Warner, 34, Clarksburg, WV
• Chasity Costilow, 38, Clarksburg, WV
• Robin Stoneking, 56, Fairmont, WV
• Michael Sine, 34, Fairmont, WVAssistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar is handling the cases on behalf of the government. The West Virginia Insurance Commission Office of Inspector General and the United States Postal Inspection Service are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Taylor County man admits to illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rollie C. Poynter, Jr., 50, of Grafton, West Virginia, was convicted today in federal court 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.” He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is handling 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. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Pennsylvania man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jewel D. Woods, 19, of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court today to 36 months incarceration for distribution of heroin, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Woods admitted that he sold heroin in Harrison County, West Virginia in January 2016. He pled guilty to one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin” in November 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.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
New York man sentenced for possessing counterfeit credit, debit cardsRead the Press Release
WHEELING WEST VIRGINIA – Scott Garcia, 22, of New York, was sentenced to nine months incarceration for possessing multiple counterfeit credit and debit cards, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Garcia possessed in excess of fifteen counterfeit devices, to wit: fraudulently produced Western Union netSpend, Mastercard debit cards, gifts cards fraudulently obtained from various retail merchants, and stolen credit card numbers. He pled guilty to one count of “Fraud Related to Access Devices” in August 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service and the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Berkeley County man admits to illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brandon Scott Castle, 24, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, was convicted today in federal court for illegal possession of a firearm, Acting United States Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Castle, who had previously been convicted of second degree assault in Washington County Maryland, admitted to having in his possession a 12-guage, double-barrel shotgun in Berkeley County, West Virginia in May 2016.
Castle pled guilty to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Wheeling man indicted on possession of a firearm chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Wheeling, West Virginia man was arrested over the weekend for one count of unlawful possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Christopher Louis Park, age 45, was charged by a federal grand jury on February 7, 2017 for allegedly possessing a .9mm caliber pistol illegally. The crime is alleged to have occurred in Wheeling in January 2017. Park had previously been convicted of possession and distribution of cocaine in federal court in April 1999.
Park faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Man pleads guilty to identity theftRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Aaron Stone, 36, currently incarcerated at Federal Correctional Institution Beckley, was convicted for aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Stone admitted to having social security numbers of people for the intended use of filing false tax returns. Stone pled guilty today in federal court to two counts of “Aggravated Identity Theft.” He faces up to four years in prison. 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 Internal Revenue Service and the Special Investigative Services Unit of the Bureau of Prisons investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Grant County man indicted on firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Petersburg, West Virginia man was arrested yesterday for multiple firearms violations, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Benjamin Wayne Hyre, 36, was charged by a federal grand jury on February 22 for “Felon in possession of a firearm,” “Possession of a firearm with altered serial number,” “Unlawful transfer of short barrel firearm,” and “Unlawful possession of a silencer.” The crimes are alleged to have occurred between March and December 2016 in Grant County.
Hyre faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the first count, up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the second count, up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 for each of the third and fourth counts.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Virginia man pleads guilty to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard Wayne Scott, 40, of Waynesboro, Virginia, was convicted of methamphetamine distribution today, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Scott admitted to traveling from Virginia to West Virginia as a part of a methamphetamine distribution operation in February 2016. Scott pled guilty to one count of “Interstate travel in furtherance of a drug crime.” He 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 defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
North Carolina man is sentenced for unlawful possession of firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Russell Cary Owens, 51, of Thomasville, North Carolina, was sentenced in federal court to 12 months incarceration for illegally possessing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Owens, who was previously convicted of a felony in Texas, was discovered in possession of over ten firearms in Monongalia County, West Virginia, in June 2016. He pled guilty to one count of “Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm” in November 2016.
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. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Wheeling Island man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Sean David Burt, 33, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months incarceration for distributing heroin, Acting U.S. Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Burt sold heroin in Ohio County from June 15 to June 30, 2016. Burt pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin” in December 2016.
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, and the Belmont County Drug Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Ohio man pleads guilty to identity theftRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tyree Skipper, 44, of Euclid, Ohio, was convicted for aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Skipper admitted to obtaining identifying information of individuals to file fraudulent tax returns in Ohio, South Carolina and Hawaii from December 2012 to May 2013 in Gilmer County, West Virginia. He pled guilty to two counts of “Aggravated Identify Theft.” He faces a mandatory two years in prison for each count.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service and the Special Investigative Services Unit of the Bureau of Prisons investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Martinsburg doctor pleads guilty to illegal distribution of alprazolam and lorazepamRead the Press Release
MARTISNBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dr. Christopher J. Murphy, 53, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was convicted of unlawfully distributing alprazolam and lorazepam, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Murphy pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Aplrazolam” and one count of “Distribution of Lorazepam.” The crime took place in Berkeley County in August 2016. He 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 defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Harrison County man indicted for heroin distribution and firearms violationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher C. Cozad, of Mount Clare, West Virginia, has been indicted for distributing heroin and illegal possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Cozad, age 32, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling on February 7, 2017 for three counts of “Distribution of Heroin” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” The crimes are alleged to have occurred in March and April 2016 in Harrison County.
Cozad faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each heroin count. He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearm violation. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau for Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Cleveland man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Terrell Allen, 33, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 24 months incarceration for distributing heroin, Acting U.S. Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Allen sold heroin in Ohio County on June 15 and June 30, 2016. Allen pled guilty to one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin” in September 2016.
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, and the Belmont County Drug Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Barbour County man pleads guilty to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Gerald Allen Freeman, 42, of Moatsville, West Virginia, was convicted for methamphetamine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Freeman admitted today to distributing methamphetamine on January 19, 2016 in Barbour County.
Freeman pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” He faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Wheeling Island man sentenced for crack cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Clarence William Bertram, 24, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced in federal court today to 24 months incarceration for crack cocaine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Bertram pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” in November 2016. He admitted to selling crack cocaine near Madison Elementary School in Ohio County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Two Northern Panhandle men are sentenced for illegal possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeffrey L. Sells, Jr., 26, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 41 months incarceration for unlawful possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Sells was found in possession of a .22 caliber pistol, three 9 mm pistols, two .22 caliber rifles, two 12-gauge shotguns, and a .223 caliber rifle in Marshall County on June 16, 2015. Sells pled guilty to one count of “Drug User and Addict in Possession of a Firearm” in September 2016.
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 Moundsville Police Department investigated.
Additionally, Jerod Kernen, 32, of Weirton, West Virginia, was sentenced to 51 months incarceration for illegally possessing a firearm.
Kernen, who had previously been convicted of felony offenses in South Carolina, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He admitted to possessing a .44 caliber revolver in Hancock County, West Virginia in August 2016.
Kernen pled guilty to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm” in December 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Weirton Police Department, and the Steubenville Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided over both cases.
Pendleton County man indicted on firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Franklin, West Virginia man was indicted today for multiple firearms violations, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Randy David May, age 36, was charged today by a federal grand jury for “Felon in possession of a firearm,” “Possession of a firearm with altered serial number,” and “Unlawful transfer of short barrel firearm.” The crimes are alleged to have occurred on August 28, 2016 in Pendleton County.
May faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the first count, up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the second count, and up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 for the third count.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Marshall County man sentenced for failing to register as sex offenderRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas Hammerstone, 34, of McMechen, West Virginia, was sentenced in federal court to six months incarceration for failing to register as a sex offender, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Hammerstone admitted to traveling in interstate commerce and failing to register and update his registration as a sex offender from November 2015 to October 2016.
Hammerstone is required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act by reason of a conviction under state law.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Man pleads guilty to threatening to damage government buildingsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeremy E. Smith, 37, an incarcerated individual at the United States Penitentiary at Hazelton, pled guilty to threatening to destroy government buildings, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Smith mailed threats to destroy buildings in Philadelphia, Boston, Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago on November 26, 2015. He was convicted on one count of “Threat to Damage Buildings by Use of Explosives.”
He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service and the Special Investigative Services at USP Hazleton investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Former correctional officer charged with using force to punish detainees and submitting a false incident reportRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA - Adam Joseph Neal Graham, 26, of Elkins, West Virginia, was charged in a three-count indictment with violating the rights of two pretrial detainees at the Tygart Valley Regional Jail (TVRJ) and obstructing justice, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
The indictment charges that Graham, while serving as a TVRJ correctional officer, assaulted and injured two pretrial detainees, and then submitted a false incident report to cover up his use of unlawful force. The indictment alleges that Graham assaulted a detainee on February 15, 2015, and assaulted a second detainee on March 9, 2015.
If convicted of assaulting a pretrial detainee, Graham faces up to 10 years for each violation. Graham also faces up to 20 years for allegedly submitting a false incident report.
Special Litigation Counsel Gerard Hogan and Trial Attorney Olimpia E. Michel of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah W. Montoro of the Northern District of West Virginia are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Former Correctional Officer in West Virginia Charged with Using Force to Punish Detainees and Submitting a False Incident ReportRead the Press Release
Adam Joseph Neal Graham, 26, of Elkins, West Virginia, was charged in a three-count indictment with violating the rights of two pretrial detainees at the Tygart Valley Regional Jail (TVRJ) and obstructing justice. The indictment charges that Graham, while serving as a TVRJ correctional officer, assaulted and injured two pretrial detainees, and then submitted a false incident report to cover up his use of unlawful force. The indictment alleges that Graham assaulted a detainee on February 15, 2015, and assaulted a second detainee on March 9, 2015.
An indictment is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. If convicted of assaulting a pretrial detainee in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 242, Graham faces up to 10 years in federal prison for each violation. Graham also faces up to 20 years in federal prison for submitting a false incident report in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1519.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Pittsburgh Division. Special Litigation Counsel Gerard Hogan and Trial Attorney Olimpia E. Michel of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah W. Montoro of the Northern District of West Virginia are prosecuting the case.
Marion County man sentenced for possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael P. Lough, 28, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months incarceration for possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Lough utilized an internet based website to access images of child pornography. In July 2015, using online surveillance and investigatory techniques, authorities discovered Lough to be in possession of various images of child pornography.
Lough pled guilty in March 2016 to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Jefferson County woman pleads guilty to her role in a heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Amanda Marshall, 30, of Ranson, West Virginia, was convicted of heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Marshall admitted to possessing heroin in Berkeley County on June 29, 2016.
Marshall pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin.” She faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Belmont County, Ohio man pleads guilty to oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Brent M. Gorshe, 27, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, was convicted of 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.” The crime took place in Ohio County and elsewhere from 2013 to 2016. He faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney 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. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.