Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Ohio man pleads guilty to interstate transfer of a firearmRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Donald Pyle, 44, of Bridgeport, Ohio, was convicted for illegally selling a gun across state lines, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.Pyle admitted to transferring, selling and delivering a .22 caliber revolver to an individual in Ohio County, West Virginia on May 23, 2016.
Pyle pled guilty to one count of “Interstate Transfer of a Firearm.” 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 David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Jefferson County woman found guilty of fraudRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Koesoema Wardhani-Foley, 40, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, was convicted by a jury today of defrauding the United States, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
From January 2005 to April 2015, Wardhani-Foley, knowingly conspired to defraud The United States of Title II disability benefits that totaled more than $100,000. She was found guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Defraud the United States.”
She 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 Paul T. Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Social Security Administration and the Office of the Inspector General investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Wheeling man indicted for cocaine distribution and operating a drug houseRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael E. Stradwick, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has been indicted for allegedly distributing cocaine and maintaining a house for drug distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Stradwick, age 37, was indicted by a federal grand jury for one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base” and one count of “Maintaining Drug-involved Premises.” The crimes are alleged to have occurred in January 2017 in Wheeling, Ohio County.
Stradwick faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for count one. He faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000 for count two. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney P. Anthony Martin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Wheeling man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Rainell Peter Freeman, 25, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 15 months incarceration for distributing heroin, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Freeman, also known as “Kelly,” sold heroin in March 2015 and April 2016 in Wheeling, West Virginia. He pled guilty to two counts of “Distribution of Heroin” in December 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Randolph County man sentenced for unlawful possession of a stolen firearmRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony Blackburn, 26, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced to 19 month incarceration for illegally possessing a stolen firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.In April 2016, Blackburn possessed a 9mm pistol and a .380 caliber pistol. Blackburn had previously been convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence in Randolph County Magistrate County in April 2009. Blackburn pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in December 2016.
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 Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Preston County man is sentenced for illegally possessing a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Warren Lee McDaniel, 43, of Albright, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 36 months incarceration for being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.McDaniel was discovered in possession of a 9 mm caliber pistol in Preston County in February 2016. He had previously been convicted of Grand Larceny in Preston County Circuit Court. McDaniel pled guilty in federal court 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 and the Preston County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Maryland man is sentenced for unlawful delivery of a firearmRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Sales, 34, of Mt. Airy, Maryland, was sentenced to four years probation for violating the Maryland Firearm Safety Act, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Sales traveled from Pocahontas County to Maryland and unlawfully delivered two .223 caliber pistols in March 2014. He pled guilty to one count of “Procure the Delivery of a Firearm into a State Where Possession is Illegal” in September 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Lewis County man is sentenced for stealing firearmsRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jacob Daniel Anthony, 22, of Weston, West Virginia, was sentenced to five years probation for possession of stolen firearms, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Anthony stole a .45 caliber pistol, a 12-guage shotgun and a 20-guage shotgun in Lewis, Upshur and Harrison Counties in August 2015. He pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearms” in March 2016.
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 Weston Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Hardy County man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason Wayne Russell, 39, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced to 33 months incarceration for distributing heroin, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Russell collaborated with other individuals to travel to and from Baltimore to distribute heroin in June 2015. He pled guilty to one count of “Interstate Travel in Furtherance of a Drug Crime” in August 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hardy County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Columbus, Ohio woman sentenced for transporting stolen items across state linesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Marilyn Whatley, 38, of Columbus, Ohio was sentenced to 21 months incarceration for transporting stolen goods across state lines, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.Whatley conspired to steal smart phones, tablets, head phones, game stations, and computers from Walmart, Target, and Meijer stores in eight different states, including West Virginia and Ohio from January to June 2015. The value of the stolen goods are estimated to be in excess of $500,000. She pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Transport Stolen Goods in Interstate Commerce” in December 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Columbus Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Berkeley County woman pleads guilty to her role in a heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michelle Zimmerman, 28, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, was convicted of racketeering, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Zimmerman admitted to traveling between Maryland and West Virginia to aid in a heroin distribution operation in June 2016.
Zimmerman pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” She 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 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.
Ohio woman pleads guilty to illegally possessing a firearm and assaulting a U.S. MarshalRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Peggy Chaffin, 37, of Portsmouth, Ohio, pled guilty to illegally possessing a gun and using said gun to obstruct a Deputy U. S. Marshal, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Chaffin admitted being a felon in possession of a .22 caliber rifle. She was previously convicted of felony heroin possession and distribution in the Eastern District of Kentucky in August 2013. Chaffin also admitted to using that gun to obstruct, assault, and resist a Deputy U.S. Marshal in Orlando, West Virginia, in November 2015.
Chaffin pled guilty to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” She faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the first count. Chaffin also pled guilty to one count of “Assaulting, Obstructing, or Resisting a Federal Officer.” She faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the second count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Braxton County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Former U.S. Attorney honored at national HIDTA award ceremonyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Former U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, was presented with the Outstanding Support to the National HIDTA Program award this week, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
In presenting him with this prestigious award, The Office of National Drug Control Policy stated that:
“Mr. Ihlenfeld demonstrated a remarkable commitment to the HIDTA program. In addition to serving on the executive boards of both the Appalachia and the Washington/Baltimore HIDTAs, he advocated for expansion of the HIDTA program to the counties in his state that were among the hardest hit by the opioid epidemic. Mr. Ihlenfeld also is noteworthy for championing drug use prevention initiatives in his state and throughout the HIDTA regions he served. Mr. Ihlenfeld is recognized as a powerful advocate of and steadfast partner to the National HIDTA Program.”
Jividen said, “Those of us who worked with Bill are glad to see him honored for his hard work and many achievements in this area during his tenure as United States Attorney.”
Elkins woman pleads guilty to role in crystal meth distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Kayliegh Marre Hartley, 29, of Elkins, West Virginia, was convicted for her role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Hartley admitted today to traveling from West Virginia to Virginia in February 2016 to deliver $3,000 from the sale of crystal meth.
Hartley pled guilty to one count of “Interstate Travel in Furtherance of a Drug Crime.” She 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.
Elkins man pleads guilty to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Sean Michael Moser, 27, of Elkins, West Virginia, was convicted for methamphetamine distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Moser admitted today to participating in a methamphetamine distribution operation from May 2013 to October 2016 in Randolph County.
Moser pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute 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.
Pennsylvania man pleads guilty to oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
MARTISNBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Bruce Mathis, 52, of Biglerville, Pennsylvania, was convicted of distributing oxycodone, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Mathis pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.” The crime took place in Jefferson County in March 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County woman pleads guilty to her role in a heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Holly Hopkins, 35, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was convicted of racketeering, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Hopkins admitted to traveling between Maryland and West Virginia to aid in a heroin distribution operation in March 2016.
Hopkins pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” She faces up to five 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 & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Ohio man pleads guilty to cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Eric Alexander Young, 37, of Bridgeport, Ohio, was convicted of cocaine distribution today, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Young pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine.” 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 L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Preston County woman indicted for embezzlementRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Bruceton Mills, West Virginia woman has been indicted for embezzling $87,529 from West Virginia University, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Loretta J. Reckart, age 55, was indicted today by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling for one count of “Theft Concerning Programs Receiving Federal Funds.” The crime is alleged to have occurred from October 2010 to July 2016 in Monongalia County while Reckart was employed at WVU.
Reckart 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 Robert H. McWilliams is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Preston County man indicted for unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Bruceton Mills, West Virginia man has been indicted for possessing a firearm illegally, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Michael Dee Cline, age 59, was indicted today by a federal grand jury for one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” Cline, who was previously convicted of a felony in Tennessee, was allegedly found in possession of a .45 caliber pistol in March 2016.
Cline 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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Harrison County woman indicted for fentanyl distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Lost Creek, West Virginia woman has been indicted for allegedly distributing fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Taylor Michelle Syslo, age 24, was indicted today by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling for one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl.” The crime is alleged to have occurred in September 2016 in Marion County.
Syslo faces up to life 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 and Assistant U.S Attorney Traci M. Cook are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. 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.Harrison County man indicted on possession of a firearm chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man has been indicted for allegedly possessing a firearm after two domestic violence convictions, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Jesse Alan Clevenger, age 32, was charged today by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling for allegedly possessing a .30 caliber rifle illegally. Clevenger had previously been convicted on two separate charges of domestic battery in the Harrison County Magistrate Court. The crime is alleged to have occurred on June 28, 2016.
Clevenger 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 Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and 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.Detroit man and Los Angeles man indicted in separate drug-related casesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Detroit, Michigan man and Los Angeles, California man have been indicted on drug charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Aaron Deshawn Campbell, age 28, of Detroit, Michigan, was indicted today by a federal grand jury for one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base in Proximity of a Protected Location,” one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base,” and one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” The crimes are alleged to have occurred in May and June of 2015 in Monongalia County.
Campbell faces up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for the distribution of cocaine near a protected location count and up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine for each of the other 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded program, investigated.
In a separate case, Cesar Navarro, age 38, of Los Angeles, California, was indicted today by a federal grand jury for one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” The crime allegedly took place between September 2014 and December 2016 in Grant County.
Navarro faces up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 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 defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Washington, DC man sentenced for failing to register as a sex offenderRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James E. Kelson, 53, of Washington, DC was sentenced in federal court today to 30 months incarceration for failing to register as a sex offender, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
From August 2012 through July 2016, Kelson failed to register and update his registration as a sex offender in Berkeley County, WV. Kelson is required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act by reason of a conviction under state law, to wit: attempted second degree child sexual abuse, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Kelson pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Register as a Sex Offender” in November 2016.
Assistant United States Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Pennsylvania woman pleads guilty to money launderingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brittany Brooks, 28, of Randallstown, Pennsylvania, was convicted for money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Brooks pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments.” She faces up to twenty 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 sentenced for unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Norman Charles Hilbert, 49, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia was sentenced in federal court today to twelve months incarceration for illegally possessing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Hilbert, who was previously convicted of a felony in Connecticut, was discovered in possession of a .45 caliber pistol in Jefferson County, West Virginia. He pled guilty to one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearm,” in November 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Maryland Police Department, the Charles Town Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Harrison County man pleads guilty to cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ruben L. Aguilar, 29, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was convicted of cocaine distribution today, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Aguilar pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base.” 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 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.
Hampshire County man and Berkeley County man sentenced for separate drug-related crimesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Aaron Matthew Reed, 37, of Romney, West Virginia, and Sean Dickerson, 29, of Martinsburg, West Virginia were sentenced today for separate drug crimes, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Reed was sentenced to 18 months incarceration. In October 2016, a jury found Reed guilty of one count of “Possession of Material Used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.” Dickerson was sentenced to 18 months incarceration after pleading guilty to one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin” in November 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted both cases on behalf of the government. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins assisted on the Reed case. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated the Dickerson case. The Reed case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resource Criminal Investigation, and the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Randolph County man pleads guilty to unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Tre Plaugher, 22, of Elkins, West Virginia, was convicted for illegally possessing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Plaugher pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Crime” and admitted to possessing a 9mm caliber pistol in January 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 Steven D. Warner prosecuted 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.
Jefferson County man and Pennsylvania woman convicted for heroin distribution, money launderingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Mark Hanshaw, 27, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and Tiara Adams, 31, of Red Lion, Pennsylvania, were convicted for their roles in a heroin distribution operation, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Hanshaw pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin.” He faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Adams pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments.” She faces up to twenty 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 investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Two Elkins residents convicted for methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Elkins residents pled guilty to methamphetamine charges in federal court today, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Christina Crites, 46, of Elkins, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity of a Protected Location.” She faces up to forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.
Joseph Muster, 28, of Elkins, West Virginia, 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 cases on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Elkins man convicted for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – David Maxwell, 31, of Elkins, West Virginia pled guilty to methamphetamine distribution today, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Maxwell 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 Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Marshall County man pleads guilty to unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher L. Wright, 37, of Glen Easton, West Virginia, was convicted for unlawful possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Martin, who had previously been convicted of a felony offense in Marshall County, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He admitted to possessing a 9mm pistol in July 2016.
Martin 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 Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Moundsville Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Columbus, Ohio woman sentenced for her role in a smash and grab schemeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jolisha McDonald, 25, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration for transporting stolen goods across state lines. Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen made the announcement.
McDonald conspired to steal smart phones, tablets, head phones, game stations, and computers from Walmart, Target, and Meijer stores in eight different states, including West Virginia and Ohio. The value of the stolen goods are estimated to be in excess of $500,000. She pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Transport Stolen Goods in Interstate Commerce” in November 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Columbus Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Berkeley County woman pleads guilty to heroin distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Danielle Ey, 29, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, admitted to assisting in heroin distribution in federal court in Martinsburg today, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Ey 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 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 and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Marion County man pleads guilty to unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Duane Jabbar Martin, 31, of Rivesville, West Virginia, was convicted for unlawful possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Martin, who had previously been convicted of a felony offense in Marion County, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He admitted to possessing a 9mm semi-automatic handgun in April 2016.
Martin 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 Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Two men plead guilty to illegal possession of a firearm chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men convicted for illegally possessing firearms, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Eric Wilson, 29, of Coalton, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm by Drug Addict.” He admitted to possessing a .32 caliber revolver in May 2016.
Joseph Wayne Shipman, 43, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Shipman, who had previously been convicted of a felony offense in Upshur County, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He admitted to possessing multiple firearms in December 2016 in Upshur County, West Virginia.
They each face 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 cases on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated the Wilson case and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the Shipman case.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Randolph County man pleads guilty to possession of illegal explosive materialRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Brian Scott Mayle, 37, of Coalton, West Virginia, pled guilty to possessing an illegal explosive material, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
In July 2016, Mayle who is not a licensee or permittee, received and transported C4 explosive material in Randolph County. He was convicted on one count of “Receipt and Transfer of Explosive Material without a License.”
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 investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Two convicted on methamphetamine distribution chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men pled guilty to methamphetamine distribution charges in federal court today, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Calvin Norris Herron, 43, of Belington, West Virginia, 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.
Ronald G. Swiger, 36, of Coalton, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” He faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
Under 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 investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Pocahontas County man pleads guilty to failing to update his sex offender registrationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Clifton R. Summerfield, 34, of Marlinton, West Virginia, pled guilty to failing to update his sex offender registration, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
From February 2016 through November 2016, Summerfield failed to register and update his registration as a sex offender in Pocahontas County, WV. Summerfield is required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act by reason of a conviction under state law. He pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration.”
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 Marshals Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Parkersburg man pleads guilty to tax evasionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ralph E. Richards, Jr., 46, of Parkersburg, West Virginia, was convicted for withholding $216,693.00 worth of income from his tax return, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
He pled guilty to one count of “Filing False Income Tax Return.” He faces up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danaë DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Harrison County woman pleads guilty to cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jennifer Y. Lucas, 21, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was convicted of cocaine distribution today, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Lucas pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” 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 Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Five charged with narcotics and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg, West Virginia, returned four indictments charging five individuals with various narcotics and firearms charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Richard Star Haggarty, 37, of Albright, West Virginia, was charged with two counts of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the firearm charges and up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the methamphetamine charge.
Chad Aric Berry, 29, of Ranson, West Virginia, was charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Gregory Keith Clinton, 56, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, was charged with one count of “Armed Career Criminal Act.” He faces up to fifteen years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Kelvin Johnson, 24, of Baltimore, Maryland, was charged with one count of “Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin.” He faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
Sykebia Stewart, 23, of Dundalk, Maryland, was charged with one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of 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 Steven D. Warner is handling the Haggarty case on behalf of the government and the Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and the United States Marshals Service are investigating. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is handling the Berry case on behalf of the government and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police are investigating. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski is handling the Clinton, Johnson, and Stewart cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the Clinton case. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force is investigating the Johnson and Stewart case.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Berkeley County man pleads guilty to illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dennis Allen High, 29, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, pled guilty to illegally possessing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
High, who had previously been convicted of a felony offense in Maryland, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He admitted to possessing multiple firearms in Berkeley County, West Virginia in July 2016.
High 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 Shawn M. Adkins 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.
Randolph County woman pleads guilty to illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Alexis McDonald, 19, of Elkins, West Virginia, pled guilty to illegally possessing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
McDonald, who had previously been convicted of a felony offense in Pennsylvania, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. She admitted to possessing a .9mm caliber pistol in Barbour County, West Virginia in July 2016.
McDonald pled guilty to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” She 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 investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Barbour County man convicted on methamphetamine distribution chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeffrey Everson, 28, of Philippi, West Virginia, pled guilty to methamphetamine distribution today, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Everson pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute 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 Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Preston County man pleads guilty to unlawful purchase of a firearmRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Cory Jean Gainey, 24, of Reedsville, West Virginia, was convicted of unlawfully purchasing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Gainey pled guilty to one count of “False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm.” He admitted that in October 2015, he provided a false statement to a licensed firearms dealer stating that he was the actual purchaser of the firearm when in fact he was buying it for another individual. 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 Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Department, and the Morgantown Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio County man pleads guilty to illegal possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Mark A. Simmons, 46, of Wheeling Island, West Virginia, was convicted of 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. Simmons faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
McKesson agrees to pay record $150 million settlement for failure to report suspicious orders of pharmaceutical drugsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – McKesson Corporation (McKesson), one of the nation’s largest distributors of pharmaceutical drugs, agreed to pay a record $150 million civil penalty for alleged violations of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen and Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration Karl C. Colder announced today. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Attorney’s Office describe the settlement of the civil penalty claims historic and unprecedented.
Acting U.S. Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen stated, "The settlement with McKesson announced today illustrates the coordinated response we are taking in addressing the prescription narcotics crisis in West Virginia and puts those who play a significant role in supplying narcotic medications in our district on clear notice that they must comply with the law and regulatory requirements or be held accountable."
The settlement resolves allegations that beginning in 2008 and continuing into 2012, McKesson’s former Landover, Maryland distribution facility routinely failed to report, and fulfilled, suspicious orders for Schedule II and III controlled substances placed by retail pharmacies, including numerous pharmacies in the Northern District of West Virginia. Acting U.S. Attorney Jividen stated, "in many instances, the suspicious orders placed by West Virginia pharmacies resulted in prescription narcotics being diverted for illegal use and abuse.” One such pharmacy was Judy’s Drug Store, located in Grant County, West Virginia. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia entered into a $2 million civil penalty settlement with Judy’s Drug Store in 2014. According to Acting U.S. Attorney Jividen “the Judy’s Drug Store probe led to the investigation of McKesson and the settlement announced today.”
“The abuse of prescription drugs has rampantly spread throughout our communities," stated DEA Special Agent in Charge Karl C. Colder. "This abuse has directly resulted in the escalation of heroin addiction and related overdoses. Today's settlement sends a clear message to all distributors of pharmaceutical drugs that it is essential to dispense controlled substances in compliance with DEA's record keeping requirements. DEA is dedicated to combat the prescription drug abuse problem in West Virginia and throughout the country and to hold all DEA registrants accountable," said Colder.
The nationwide settlement requires McKesson to suspend sales of controlled substances from distribution centers in Colorado, Ohio, Michigan and Florida for multiple years. The staged suspensions are among the most severe sanctions ever agreed to by a DEA registered distributor. The settlement also imposes new and enhanced compliance obligations on McKesson’s distribution system.
In 2008, McKesson agreed to a $13.25 million civil penalty and administrative agreement for similar violations. In this case, the government alleged again that McKesson failed to design and implement an effective system to detect and report “suspicious orders” for controlled substances distributed to its independent and small chain pharmacy customers– i.e. orders that are unusual in their frequency, size, or other patterns. From 2008 until 2013, McKesson supplied various U.S. pharmacies an increasing amount of oxycodone and hydrocodone pills, frequently misused products that are part of the current opioid epidemic.
The government’s investigation developed evidence that even after designing a compliance program after the 2008 settlement, McKesson did not fully implement or adhere to its own program. In Colorado, for example, McKesson processed more than 1.6 million orders for controlled substances from June 2008 through May 2013, but reported just 16 orders as suspicious, all connected to one instance related to a recently terminated customer.
In addition to the monetary penalties and suspensions, the government and McKesson agreed to enhanced compliance terms for the next five years. Among other things, McKesson has agreed to specific, rigorous staffing and organizational improvements; periodic auditing; and stipulated financial penalties for failing to adhere to the compliance terms. Critically, the settlement will require McKesson to engage an independent monitor to assess compliance – the first independent monitor of its kind in a CSA civil penalty settlement.
This was a multi-district investigation initiated by Diversion Investigator Lindsey Malocu of the Washington Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration and involving the following DEA Field Divisions: Boston, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Miami, Newark, San Francisco, St. Louis, and also the Washington District Office. The following U.S. Attorney’s Offices participated in the case: Northern District of West Virginia, Central District of California, Eastern District of California, District of Colorado, Middle District of Florida, Eastern District of Kentucky, Northern District of Illinois, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, District of Nebraska, District of New Jersey, and Western District of Wisconsin.
U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Northern District of West Virginia and the District of Colorado, along with DEA Office of Chief Counsel and Diversion Control Division, led the civil settlement negotiations. DEA’s Denver, Detroit and Miami Field Divisions, and its Washington Division Office led the administrative and civil investigation. The Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section (NDDS) also coordinated and assisted in negotiating certain portions of the settlement. Assistant United States Attorneys Alan McGonigal (NDWV) and Amanda Rocque (Colorado) represented the United States in the civil penalty investigations and negotiations. Associate Chief Counsel Lee Reeves and Senior Attorneys Dedra Curteman, Dana Hill and Krista Tongring represented DEA in the investigations and negotiations. Trial Attorneys Harry Matz and Kirtland Marsh were involved for NDDS.
Barbour County man pleads guilty to methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Tyler Robinson, 21, of Belington, West Virginia, was convicted of methamphetamine distribution today, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Robinson pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 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 Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.