Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Michigan man sentenced for oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeremy Colby Vickerson, 28, of Canton, Michigan, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for distribution of oxycodone, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Vickerson was arrested near Bridgeport, West Virginia after being found in possession oxycodone pills. He previously pled guilty in April 2016 to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone Within 100 Feet of a Video Arcade Facility.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Harrison County Street Crimes and Drug Unit investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Harrison County man sentenced for unlawful possession of firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Aric J. Stutler, 38, of Mount Clare, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 84 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Stutler, who was previously convicted of “Armed Bank Robbery” in Ohio, was discovered to be in possession of a .22 caliber pistol last year in Harrison County, West Virginia. Stutler pled guilty in May 2016 to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Irene M. Keeley presided.
Bureau of Prisons inmate convicted, sentenced on assault chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Isaac Pettiford, 40, formerly incarcerated at the United States Penitentiary Hazelton, was convicted and sentenced to 10 months today for assaulting a registered nurse, U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
In December 2015, Pettiford forcibly assaulted a registered nurse while she was engaged in her official duties at United States Penitentiary Hazelton. He pled guilty today to one count of “Assault of a Federal Employee.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Prisons Special Investigations Services Unit investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Wheeling Island man pleads guilty to heroin distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin Thomas Mann, 28, of Wheeling Island, pled guilty to heroin distribution in federal court in Wheeling today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Mann pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” He admitted to selling heroin in Ohio County during February 2016. He 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 Randy J. Bernard and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Martin, also of the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Harrison County woman sentenced for unlawful possession of firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tiffany Renee Taylor, 27, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Taylor was discovered in possession of a .45 caliber firearm in April 2015 in Harrison County, West Virginia. She pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Firearm While Being an Unlawful User and Addicted to a Controlled Substance” in June 2016.
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 Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Bureau of Prisons inmate convicted, sentenced on assault chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas Cuthbertson, 25, formerly incarcerated at the United States Penitentiary Hazelton, was convicted and sentenced to 15 months today for assaulting a correctional officer, U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
In October 2014, Cuthbertson intentionally assaulted a correctional officer with the intent to inflict bodily harm. He pled guilty today to one count of “Assault of a Correctional Officer Resulting in Injury.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Prisons Special Investigations Services Unit investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Hampshire County man pleads guilty to unlawful possession of a stolen firearmRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Gregory Scott Rinker, 31, of Romney, West Virginia, pled guilty today to a federal firearms charge, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.In August 2015, Rinker knowingly possessed four stolen firearms in Mineral and Hampshire Counties, West Virginia. Moore pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” He faces up to 10 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, the West Virginia State Police, and the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Clarksburg woman pleads guilty to heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Danna J. Hern, 30, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, pled guilty to heroin distribution in federal court today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Hern pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess With the Intent to Deliver 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 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.
Bureau of Prisons inmate pleads guilty to assaultRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Fleming, 30, currently incarcerated at Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer, pled guilty today to assaulting a correctional officer, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
In June 2014, Fleming intentionally assaulted a correctional officer with the intent to inflict bodily harm. Fleming pled guilty today to one count of “Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding Certain Officers or Employees.” He faces up to 20 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 Federal Bureau of Prisons Special Investigations Services Unit investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Three men sentenced for firearm chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three men were sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Dione Aliquan Taylor, 29, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm. Taylor, who was previously convicted of a felony in Essex County, New Jersey, was discovered to be in possession of a .45 caliber pistol in Charles Town, West Virginia. Taylor pled guilty in June 2016 to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.”
Thomas James King, 27, of Clarksburg, Maryland, was sentenced to 110 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm. King, who was previously convicted of a felony in Montgomery County, Maryland, was discovered to be in possession of a 9mm pistol in Martinsburg, West Virginia. King pled guilty in June 2016 to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.”
Willie Joyner, 32, of Sterling, Virginia, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm. Joyner, who was previously convicted of a felony in Loudoun County, Virginia, was discovered to be in possession of a .32 caliber revolver in Charles Town, West Virginia. Joyner pled guilty in June 2016 to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the Taylor case; Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti prosecuted the King case; and Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the Joyner case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated all three cases. In addition, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Drug Administration, the West Virginia State Police, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office assisted on the Taylor investigation and the Martinsburg State Police assisted on the King investigation.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Maryland man sentenced to 30 years for delivery causing deathRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Lateef Fisher, 38, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced in federal court today to 30 years in prison for selling heroin that resulted in the death of another, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Evidence presented at the two day trial in May 2016, indicated that Fisher conspired with another individual to sell heroin in June 2014 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. That heroin led to the death of a 27 year-old male victim.
"Whenever the delivery of heroin or other drugs leads to the death of another, the U.S. Attorney's Office will seek a severe punishment for the offender," said Ihlenfeld. "I am hopeful that this approach will deter out of town drug dealers like Mr. Fisher from traveling to West Virginia to profit from the sale of these deadly substances."
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul T. Camilletti and Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Martinsburg man sentenced for stalking former co-workerRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Victor Anderson, 65, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced in federal court today to 24 months in prison for stalking a female coworker while he was employed by the Internal Revenue Service, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
While Anderson was employed by the Internal Revenue Service Computing Center in Martinsburg, he repeatedly used the Internet and traditional mail to distribute letters, photographs, essays, and poems containing sexually explicit information about a female co-worker. The items were distributed to the female co-worker’s supervisor, co-workers, relatives, neighbors, and other individuals within the United States government. Anderson pled guilty to one count of “Stalking” in May 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Cleveland man sentenced for cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Donny Deshawn Parker, 25, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced in federal court today to 27 months in prison for selling crack cocaine in Moundsville, West Virginia, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Parker distributed cocaine HCL in April 2014 in Marshall County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in July 2016 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Preston County man pleads guilty to unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Scott Alan Thomas, 53, of Masontown, West Virginia, pled guilty to unlawfully possessing a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Thomas, who had previously been convicted of felony offenses in Ohio and Florida, was discovered in possession of a .22 caliber revolver in December 2015. He pled guilty to one count of “Felon in 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, the West Virginia State Police, and the Masontown Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Out of state men sentenced for distributing heroin, oxycodoneRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men, one from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and one from Detroit, Michigan, were sentenced today for distributing heroin and oxycodone, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Keevus Weeks, 33, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 135 months for his role in a drug trafficking operation in which heroin and oxycodone were transported across state lines from Philadelphia to Morgantown, West Virginia for redistribution and sale throughout the region. Weeks was found guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone and Heroin,” two counts of “Distribution of Oxycodone within 1000 feet of a Protected Location,” and one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone” in June 2016.
Draylon Eric Beecham, 41, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 46 months for distributing heroin near North Elementary School in Monongalia County, West Virginia. Beecham pled guilty to “Distribution of Heroin within 1000’ of a Protected Location” in May 2016.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated the Weeks case. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force also investigation the Beecham case.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Ohio man pleads guilty to unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Donaven J. White, 20, of Coshocton, Ohio, pled guilty to unlawfully possessing a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
White, who had previously been convicted of felony offenses in Belmont County, Ohio, was discovered in possession of a .22 caliber revolver in April 2016. He pled guilty to one count of “Prohibited Person in 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 L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Two men charged with multiple synthetic marijuana distribution chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Nicholas Graziano, 53, of Melville, New York, and Stephen Graziano, 25, of Morgantown, West Virginia, with distributing synthetic marijuana, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.In July 2012 through April 2014, Nicholas and Stephen Graziano, owner and operators of X Hale Hookah Lounge in Morgantown, West Virginia, were allegedly distributing synthetic cannabinoids, commonly referred to as spice, K2, incense, or fake weed. Synthetic cannabinoids are designer drugs that resemble a controlled substance in molecular structure and actual or intended physiological effect.
The Grazianos were each charged with one count of “Drug Conspiracy,” one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises – Aiding and Abetting,” eleven counts of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Controlled Substance Analogue,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substance Analogue – Aiding and Abetting.” Nicholas Graziano was additionally charged with one count of “Engaging in Monetary Transaction in Property Derived from Specific Unlawful Activity,” and Stephen Graziano was additionally charged with one count of “Laundering of Monetary Instruments.”They each face up to twenty years in prison and a fine up to $1,000,000 for the conspiracy charge; up to twenty years in prison and a fine up to $500,000 for the maintaining drug-involved premises charge; up to five years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 for each of the distribution charges; Stephen faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the engaging in monetary transaction charge; and Nicholas faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine up to $500,000 for the laundering charge. 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 handling the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Seven indicted for operation of sham charityRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury has charged seven Eastern Panhandle residents with operating a fraudulent charity that generated millions of dollars in illegal revenue, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.Brent Jackson, 45; Steve Crites, 45; James M. Crites, 72; Betty Crites, 68; Kristy Vanduzer, 43; Larry Webster, 68; and James R. "Jay" Crites, 37, all of Martinsburg, West Virginia were named in each count of a 53-count indictment returned on Tuesday and unsealed on Wednesday.
According to the indictment, the defendants operated illegal bingo and raffle games for a fraudulent charity known as Kids Against Drugs of W.V., Inc., and doing business as “Big Bucks Bingo." The games were purportedly arranged to benefit the Fraternal Order of Police #83 and the Berkeley County Humane Society but the defendants are alleged to have retained ninety percent or more of the revenue generated. The defendants also are alleged to have transferred funds generated during the bingo and raffle games to various commercial bank accounts in order to benefit themselves or businesses in which they had a personal interest.
According to Ihlenfeld, seizure warrants have been served upon bank accounts belonging to Kids Against Drugs of W.V., Inc., S&B Berkeley, LLC, and Berkeley Plaza, LLC, in order to freeze the funds contained in said accounts and to forfeit any funds traceable to federal criminal violations.
The defendants are each charged with fifteen counts of “Mail Fraud,” eighteen counts of “Money Laundering,” eighteen counts of “Illegal Monetary Transactions,” one count of "Money Laundering Conspiracy", and one count of “Illegal Gambling.”
The defendants face up to twenty years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 for each mail fraud count; up to twenty years in prison and a fine up to $500,000 for the money laundering conspiracy count; up to twenty years in prison and a fine up to $500,000 for each money laundering count; up to ten years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 for each monetary transactions count; and up to five years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 for the gambling 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.
"Today’s indictments and arrests are the result of collaborative efforts to assure the residents of the Martinsburg area that law enforcement is vigilant at safeguarding their interests. Those who find ways to fraudulently benefit from non-profit organizations will be brought to justice,” said Thomas Jankowski, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Washington D.C. Field Office. “With both law enforcement and financial investigation expertise, IRS-CI agents are uniquely qualified to assist our law enforcement partners with these types of cases by following the money.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government, and the matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and IRS Criminal Investigation.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Mexican national charged with illegal reentryRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Julio Cesar Leon-Dominguez, 37, originally from Mexico with illegal reentry into the United States, U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.Leon-Dominguez was allegedly discovered in August 2016 in Berkeley County, West Virginia after previously having been deported from the United States. He is charged with one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” He faces up to two years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 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 defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is handling the case on behalf of the government. The United States Department of Homeland Security Immigrations and Customs Enforcement is investigating.An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Martinsburg man charged with failing to register as a sex offenderRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Dustin Andrew Parsons, 30, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, with failing to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.Parsons allegedly traveled in interstate commerce and failed to register and update his registration as a sex offender in Berkeley County, West Virginia. Parsons in required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act by reason of a conviction under state law.
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 Shawn M. Adkins is handling the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service is investigating.An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Jefferson County man charged with illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Jeremiah David Wallace, 28, of Ranson, West Virginia with illegal possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
In November 2015, Wallace was allegedly found in possession of multiple firearms in Berkeley County, WV. Wallace, having been convicted of a felony in Frederick County, Virginia, is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Wallace was charged with two counts of “Felon in Possession of Firearm.” He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 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 defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is handling the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Ranson Police Department are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Cleveland man sentenced for distributing heroinRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – John Johnson, Jr., 39, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for distribution of heroin, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Johnson distributed heroin in October 2015 in Ohio County, West Virginia. pled guilty in July 2016 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danaë DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Focus on Fentanyl: Awareness week shines light on emerging threatRead the Press Release
Last month when there were nearly 30 overdoses in Huntington in just four hours, West Virginia was once again in the headlines because of a drug-related issue. But this story was different, in part because the drugs involved were much more powerful than what we’re used to seeing. What is this latest threat, what’s being done about it, and what can you do?
This is National Heroin and Opioid Awareness Week, which has been established in order to shine a light on the threat posed by this class of drugs. Opioids provide rewarding, euphoric effects that can lead to dependence and addiction. The opioid family includes prescription painkillers such as oxycodone, illicit drugs like heroin, and fentanyl, which has emerged as one of the deadliest substances being distributed today. The focus is on fentanyl this week because it has led to clusters of overdoses in our region, similar to what we saw in Huntington in August.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that most of us know as an end-stage cancer drug applied via patches to the skin. But the version being sold on the streets of West Virginia is produced clandestinely in China and Mexico before it reaches the Mountain State. Fentanyl is very powerful – 100 times more powerful than morphine - and is often mixed with heroin by dealers to enhance the high experienced by users. Drug cartels are shipping large quantities of it to the United States to make up for declining marijuana profits.More deaths than ever before in West Virginia are being linked to fentanyl. The consumption of just two milligrams of the substance can be fatal. In the last two years, over 40% of those who died from a drug overdose in our state had fentanyl in their system, a number much higher than we’ve ever seen.
Carfentanil, which is not intended for human consumption but instead meant to tranquilize large animals, has also been introduced into the supply chain. This super drug is believed to have contributed to the rash of overdoses that occurred in our region over the past few months.
But as the substances get stronger, so must we, in the areas of enforcement, prevention and treatment. The task forces in West Virginia are aggressively targeting those who profit from the sale of fentanyl and other substances, and taking the steps necessary to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations. Supplemental federal funding has been secured to support local enforcement efforts. Additionally, many police departments in the state are now treating overdoses like crime scenes in order to better identify the source of supply. Prevention professionals are working diligently, and while there is still a gap in treatment resources I remain hopeful that it will soon be closed.What can you do? If you have children or grandchildren, you should reject the notion that it can't happen in your family. It can, and it has, in thousands of West Virginia households. Talk to your children about drugs; ask the tough questions; and be prepared to answer the questions that they fire back. Help them to understand that the threat posed by fentanyl and other opioids is very real, that it's here in West Virginia, and that one time is all it takes. If we arm young people with the facts, then hopefully they’ll stop and think before they take a pill or powder provided by a friend, a teammate, or a dealer.
You can also help by calling the police when you see suspicious activity, ensuring that pills in your home are properly secured, and participating in drug take back days. You can become a recovery coach and help those who are struggling with the disease of addiction, or volunteer at a hospital to help babies who have been exposed to opioids while in the womb.
Let's not allow what happened recently in Huntington to become the new normal. Instead, let's all do our part to push back against this threat and begin down a path toward a stronger and healthier West Virginia.
William J. Ihlenfeld, II, is the United States Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia.Spotlight will shine on heroin, fentanyl threat in West VirginiaRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The United States Attorney’s Office will help to shine a light on the threat posed by heroin, fentanyl and other opioids in West Virginia next week, U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
National Heroin and Opioid Awareness Week, which will begin on Sunday in West Virginia, was established in order to educate the public about the dangers of these types of substances and to identify solutions to the drug crisis facing the United States. There will be a special focus placed on fentanyl, which has emerged as one of the deadliest substances being distributed in the state and in the region.
Throughout the week, representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s Office will conduct interactive presentations and discussions with fifth grade students at twenty separate elementary schools in Northern West Virginia. The presentation will cover a variety of topics, including commonly abused drugs, the science behind addiction, the impact of drugs upon the brain, and the importance of recognizing and speaking up about the signs of substance abuse.
On Tuesday, United States Attorney Ihlenfeld will host a discussion at Fairmont State University with middle school and high school students and receive their input in the development of drug prevention strategies. An action plan will be developed based upon the ideas the students provide and then implemented in their schools.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office will also present to student athletes at a university; meet with community leaders to discuss the opioid epidemic; and provide drug threat assessments to business leaders, hospitals, and churches.
Throughout National Heroin and Opioid Awareness Week, please follow the United States Attorney’s Office Twitter account at @NDWVnews
Moundsville woman pleads guilty to embezzlementRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Shawna Tolpa, 48, of Moundsville, West Virginia, pled guilty in federal court today to embezzling over $52,000 from United Bank in Marshall County, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Tolpa pled guilty today to one count of “Bank Theft.” She faces up to thirty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Morgantown man pleads guilty to failure to pay taxesRead the Press Release
MORGANTOWN, WEST VIRGINIA – Brian E. Dawson, 29, of Morgantown, West Virginia, pled guilty in federal court today to failing to pay $123,166.50 in taxes for his Morgantown business, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Dawson pled guilty today to one count of “Willful Failure to Collect and Pay Over Taxes for 2011 Tax Year.” He faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Hardy County man pleads guilty to traveling across state lines to distribute heroinRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason Wayne Russell, 39, of Moorefield, West Virginia, pled guilty today for traveling across state lines to the Baltimore area to procure heroin, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Russell pled guilty today 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Wheeling man sentenced for cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kenneth Brown, 50, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 77 months in prison for distributing crack cocaine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Brown admitted to selling crack cocaine out of his residence in Ohio County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in June 2016 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.”
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.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Domestic violence offender sentenced for illegal possession of gunRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Patrick Blair, 64, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Blair, who was previously convicted of “Domestic Violence” in Harrison County, West Virginia, was discovered to be in possession of a .357 magnum caliber rifle. He pled guilty in May 2016 to one count of “Possession of a Firearm by a Person Convicted of a Misdemeanor Crime of Domestic Violence.”
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 Clarksburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Pennsylvania man pleads guilty to heroin distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Keith Derwin Freeman, 43, of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, pled guilty to heroin distribution in federal court today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Freeman admitted to selling heroin in Berkeley County, West Virginia in September 2015. He 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Michigan man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Culver, 26, of Eastpointe, Michigan, was sentenced today to 60 months in prison for distributing heroin, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Culver previously admitted to the sale of heroin in November of 2015 in Monongalia County.
Assistant United States Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Florida couple pleads guilty to fraud chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nomiki Vavlas, 50, and Michael Vavlas, 52, of Tarpon Springs, Florida, pled guilty to committing fraud against the United States today, U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Nomika and Michael Valvlas own and operate VHP Enterprises, Inc, a company that specializes in painting and sandblasting. They were awarded a federal contract to paint bridges in Braxton County, WV from August 2011 through September 2012. The project was subject to the Davis-Bacon Act, which requires employers to pay a minimum hourly wage rate to all employees. The Vavlas’ did not pay the full wage rate for overtime hours worked by project employees and falsified payroll reports that were delivered to the West Virginia Division of Highways Office by the United States Postal Service.
The each pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Defraud the United States and Commit Mail Fraud.” They face 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 Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The investigation was led by the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General and the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Eastern Panhandle man sentenced for sexual abuse of a minorRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph Robert Paper, 32, of Ranson, West Virginia, was sentenced to 87 months in prison for traveling across state lines to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a teenage girl, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Paper transported a fourteen year old female from Pennsylvania to West Virginia where he had sexual contact with the victim. The crimes occurred in January at a hotel in Berkeley County and at Paper’s home in Jefferson County.
Upon his release from prison, Paper will be supervised for a period of 40 years. He must also register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Hanover, Pennsylvania Police Department investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Martinsburg man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Matthew Dylan Harrison, 26, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for distributing heroin, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Harrison pled guilty in May 2016 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.”
Special Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor, also of the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Four sentenced for firearm, identity theft chargesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Four people were sentenced today for firearm and identity theft charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Curtessa Monet Franklin, 22, of Canton, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for lying while attempting to acquire a firearm. Franklin pled guilty in April 2016 to one count of “Conspiracy to Provide a False Statement During the Attempted Purchase of a Firearm.”
Christopher Lee Linn, 30, of Jessup, Maryland, was sentenced to 58 months in prison for firearm and identity theft charges. Linn pled guilty in May 2016 to one count of “False Statement in Acquisition of a Firearm” and one count of “Aggravated Identity Theft.”
Robert Jackson Rowand, 36, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 35 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm. Rowand, who has prior felony convictions in Berkeley County, WV, pled guilty in May 2016 to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.”
Alan Clark Toliver, 36, of Charles Town, West Virginia, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm. Toliver, who has prior felony convictions in New Jersey and North Carolina, pled guilty in May 2016 to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.”
Assistant United States Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted Franklin, Rowand, and Toliver. Assistant United States Attorney Paul T. Camilletti prosecuted Linn. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the cases. They were assisted by the West Virginia State Police on the Franklin case; the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office and Martinsburg Police Department on the Rowand case; and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office on the Toliver case.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Detroit man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Leon Fisher, 29, of Detroit, Michigan was sentenced to 30 months in prison for heroin distribution, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Fisher pled guilty in April 2016 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.”
Assistant United States Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Two men sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men, one from Detroit and one from Barbour County, were sentenced for their role in the distribution of heroin, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Jeffrey Motley, 25, of Philippi, West Virginia, was sentenced to 46 months in prison today for distributing heroin. Motley pled guilty in March 2016 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.”
Craig Coffee, 48, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for distributing heroin. Coffee pled guilty in March 2016 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin.”
Assistant United States Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
New York man pleads guilty to possessing counterfeit credit, debit cardsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Scott Garcia, 21, of New York, pled guilty to possessing multiple counterfeit credit and debit cards in federal court today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Garcia pled guilty to one count of “Fraud Related to Access Devices.” He admitted to possessing fifteen or more counterfeit devices, to wit: fraudulently produced Western Union netSpend, MasterCard debit cards, gift cards fraudulently obtained from various retail merchants, and stolen credit card numbers in Ohio County, WV.
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 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. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Cleveland man pleads guilty to distributing crack cocaine on Wheeling IslandRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Anton Demetrius Matthews, 32, of Cleveland, Ohio, pled guilty to crack cocaine distribution in federal court today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Matthews pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” He admitted to selling crack cocaine on Wheeling Island near Madison Elementary School. He faces up to forty years in prison 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 David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Pennsylvania man sentenced for oxycodone distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Montague, III, 25, of Darby, Pennsylvania was sentenced to 50 months in prison for oxycodone distribution, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Montague admitted to distributing oxycodone in Monongalia County, WV. He pled guilty in March 2016 to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.”
Assistant United States Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Wheeling man sentenced for transporting minors to engage in illicit sexual conductRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin J. Wick, 43, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 312 months in prison for traveling across state lines to engage in illicit sexual conduct with minor victims, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.Wick transported minors across states lines from Ohio to an apartment in West Virginia where he engaged in illicit sexual conduct with the victims. He pled guilty in January 2016 to five counts of “Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Wheeling Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Northern District of West Virginia Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Martins Ferry, Ohio Police Department, and the Belmont County, Ohio Sheriff’s Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Fairmont man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Ross Sims, 27, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to twelve months and one day in prison for distributing heroin, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Sims pled guilty in April 2016 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.”
Assistant United States Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Wheeling man charged with failing to register as a sex offenderRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Joseph J. Weidman, 49, of Wheeling, West Virginia with failure to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Weidman allegedly failed to register and update his registration as a sex offender in Ohio County, WV, after having moved from Massachusetts to West Virginia in May, 2016. Weidman is required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act by reason of a conviction under state law.He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is handling the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Two sentenced for cocaine, morphine distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men were sentenced for their role in the distribution of cocaine and morphine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Robert Montalvo Laureano, 33, of San Lorenzo, Puerto Rico, previously of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for distributing cocaine. Laureano pled guilty in June 2015 to one count of “Cocaine Distribution – Aiding and Abetting.”
Samuel Lee Winebrenner, 29, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 6 months in prison for distributing morphine. Winebrenner pled guilty in February 2016 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Morphine.”
Assistant United States Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Brooke County man pleads guilty to firearm, drug chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Patrick Hauck, 34, of Wellsburg, West Virginia, has been convicted of federal drug and gun charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Hauck, who has prior felony convictions for “Breaking and Entering” in Brooke County and “Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm” in federal court, was discovered in possession of a 7.62 caliber rifle in January 2015. In February 2015, he possessed pseudoephedrine that was to be used to make methamphetamine.
He pled guilty on Wednesday to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession of Pseudoephedrine to be Used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.”
Hauck faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearm charge and up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the drug charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Follansbee Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Three sentenced for hydrocodone, methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Three people were sentenced today for their role in the distribution of hydrocodone and methamphetamine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Nelson Joseph Boucher, 33, of Cabins, West Virginia, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for distributing hydrocodone. Boucher pled guilty in April 2016 to one count of “Distribution of Hydrocodone.”
Christina Marie Thompson, 34, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced to 78 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine. Thompson pled guilty in February 2016 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – Aiding and Abetting.”
Christopher Ray Thompson, 26, of Beverly, West Virginia, was sentenced to twelve months and one day in prison for distribution of methamphetamine. Thompson pled guilty in April 2016 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – Aiding and Abetting.”
Assistant United States Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated the Boucher case. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated the Thompson cases.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Randolph County man sentenced for possessing counterfeit moneyRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jonathan J. Ross, 30, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced to eight months in prison for possessing counterfeit money, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Ross was found in possession of four hundred and fifty dollars in counterfeit currency. He pled guilty in February 2016 to one count of “Uttering Counterfeit Obligations and Securities – Aiding and Abetting.”
Assistant United States Attorney Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service, the West Virginia State Police, and the Clarksburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Hardy County man sentenced for unlawful possession of firearmRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Michael Hawley, 29, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Hawley, who was previously convicted of “Unlawful Assault” in Hardy County, West Virginia, was discovered to be in possession of a .40 caliber pistol last year in Grant County, WV. Hawley pled guilty in May 2016 to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Harrison County man pleads guilty to unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Andrew N. Debolt, 33, of Shinnston, West Virginia, admitted to the unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Debolt, who has prior felony convictions for “Sexual Abuse in the First Degree” and “Domestic Violence, Third Offense” in Harrison County, WV, was discovered in possession of a .22 caliber rifle in July 2015. He pled guilty this week to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.”
Debolt 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, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Clarksburg Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Ohio man pled guilty to possessing counterfeit moneyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Donald R. Jordan, 26, of Galloway, Ohio pled guilty to possession of counterfeit money, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Jordan was found in possession of two counterfeit one hundred dollar bills, one counterfeit fifty dollar bill, and two counterfeit twenty dollar bills in Harrison County, WV.
He pled guilty to one count of “Possessing Counterfeit Obligations and Securities.” He faces up to twenty 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 Andy R. Cogar and Sarah W. Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service investigated.U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.