Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Jury finds Hancock County, WV man guilty of multiple child pornography offensesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict today convicting Steve G. Singo, 35, of Weirton, West Virginia, of receiving, possessing, and distributing images of child pornography, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Evidence presented at trial indicated that Singo utilized internet-based peer-to-peer file sharing technology to download and share files depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. As the result of online surveillance and investigatory techniques, authorities discovered Singo in possession of various images of child pornography at his residence in Hancock County, West Virginia.
Following a two day trial, a jury found Singo guilty of one count of “Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography,” for which he faces between five and twenty years in prison, and one count of “Possession of Child Pornography,” for which he faces up to twenty years in prison. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000 on each of the two counts. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.
Fairmont, WV man sentenced to more than seven years for cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ratique Wilson, also known as “Montana,” 25, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 87 months in prison for cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Wilson sold cocaine base in January 2015 in Marion County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in November 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
In another matter, Rholan D. Pryor, 26, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to six months in prison for selling heroin in April 2014 in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin – Aiding and Abetting.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted Pryor and Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted Wilson on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated both defendants. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, also investigated Pryor.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Pennsylvania man sentenced for drug trafficking, unlawful possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard Cervi, Jr., 31, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for methamphetamine trafficking and unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Cervi, who has a previous felony conviction in state court in Pennsylvania, was discovered in Ohio County, West Virginia in February 2015 in unlawful possession of methamphetamine and a .45 caliber revolver. He was previously convicted of the felony offense of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.
Cervi pled guilty in November 2015 to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” He was sentenced to 37 months in prison on each count. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 37 months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the United States Secret Service investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Four sentenced for drug trafficking offensesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Four individuals were sentenced today in federal court in Clarksburg for drug trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Daleron K. Stewart, 26, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Darrell Jeffery Mar, 21, of Verona, Pennsylvania, conspired to possess and sell heroin in Harrison and Monongalia Counties throughout 2014. They each pled guilty in November 2015 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin.” Stewart was sentenced today to 30 months in prison and Mar was sentenced today to 21 months in prison.
Miranda D. Swiger, 21, of Longwood, Florida, was discovered in possession of heroin in January 2015 in Taylor County, West Virginia. She pled guilty in November 2015 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin – Aiding and Abetting.” She was sentenced today to 24 months in prison.James Michael Conley, 38, of Clarksburg, sold morphine in September 2014 near Pierpont Community and Technical College in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in November 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Morphine within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” He was sentenced today to 14 months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn Adkins and Stephen Warner prosecuted Conley, Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted Swiger, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted Mar and Stewart on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated each of the defendants.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Missouri man pleads guilty to selling LSDRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Casey Tyler Nagy, 29, originally of Missouri, was convicted of drug trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Nagy distributed lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in June 2015 in Wetzel County, West Virginia.
Nagy pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of LSD.” He faces up to 20 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 David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Martinsville Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Convicted sex offender sentenced for failure to update registration statusRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Convicted sex offender Richard Doman, 47, of Lorain, Ohio, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison after he failed to properly update his registration status, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Doman was convicted in 2003 of “Statutory Sexual Assault” and “Indecent Assault” in the Court of Common Pleas of York County, Pennsylvania. As a result of that conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. Doman moved from Ohio to West Virginia in 2014 without updating his sex offender registration. He pled guilty in November 2015 to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Montoro and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Authorities arrest Bridgeport, WV man, seize large quantity of prescription painkillersRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Authorities from Ohio and Marshall Counties in West Virginia recovered large quantities of prescription painkillers and United States currency today when they arrested Suhip E. Ebrahim, 26, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Officers from the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, both HIDTA-funded initiatives, allegedly discovered Ebrahim in the Wheeling area in possession of nearly 600 oxycodone pills and in excess of $100,000 in United States currency.
Following his arrest, Ebrahim made an initial appearance in federal court today before U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert. He is currently being held without bond.
Ebrahim is named in a federal criminal complaint charging him with “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.” A complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two other defendants were also arrested today. They are facing charges in state court.
Two sentenced for drug traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals were sentenced for drug trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Sharod D. Nickelson, 44, of Detroit, Michigan, conspired with other individuals to possess and sell oxycodone throughout the Ohio Valley. Following an investigation by the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, Nickelson pled guilty in January 2016 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Oxycodone.” He was sentenced today to 87 months in prison.
Donald William Butler, 57, of Saint Marys, West Virginia, was among six individuals charged in a federal indictment when authorities disrupted a Pleasants County methamphetamine manufacturing operation in June 2015. Specifically, Butler was discovered in possession of materials commonly utilized to manufacture methamphetamine. Following an investigation by the West Virginia State Police and the Pleasants Count Sheriff’s Department, Butler pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Possession of Material Used in the Manufacturing of Methamphetamine – Aiding and Abetting.” He was sentenced today to 46 months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McWilliams prosecuted Nickelson and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins prosecuted Butler on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Marshall County man sentenced for oxycodone trafficking, bank fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Michael Previtera, 38, of Proctor, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months in prison for oxycodone trafficking and bank fraud, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Throughout 2014 and 2015, Previtera conspired with other individuals to possess and distribute oxycodone in Marshall and Wetzel Counties. He also admitted to committing fraud in connection with a loan that he obtained in order to finance the purchase of an automotive services business that he owned.Previtera pled guilty in June 2015 to one count of “Drug Conspiracy – Oxycodone,” and one count of “Bank Fraud.” He was sentenced today to 57 months in prison for drug trafficking and 57 months in prison for bank fraud. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 57 months in prison.
As part of the sentence imposed today, Previtera was also ordered to forfeit his interest in multiple firearms, $15,070 in United States currency, a 2007 Dodge Ram truck, John Deere lawn care machinery, and various equipment and inventory related to the automotive services business. Previtera was also ordered to pay money a judgment in the amount of $145,000 in the drug trafficking case. He was further ordered to pay a money judgment and restitution in the amount and $84,117.74 in the bank fraud case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation investigated the bank fraud charges. The West Virginia State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the drug trafficking charges.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.New York man convicted, sentenced for attempting to sell counterfeit goodsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Xian Chen Chen, 39, of Flushing, New York, was convicted and sentenced today for attempting to sell counterfeit goods in the Wheeling, West Virginia and Boston, Massachusetts areas, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Chen attempted to sell counterfeit goods purported to be from Tory Burch, Tiffany & Co., The North Face, Coach Services, Inc., Apple, Inc., Beats Electronics, Chanel, Inc., Gucci America, Inc., Louis Vuitton, Michael Kors, L.L.C., Jimmy Choo, Ray Ban, Fendi, Ed Hardy, Dooney & Bourke, Bvlgari, Hello Kitty, Dolce & Gabbana, Christian Dior, Juicy Couture, Prada, Marc Jacobs, Versace, Armani, Burberry, and Oakley.Chen pled guilty today to an Information charging him with one count of “Entry of Good by Means of False Statements.” Chen also pled guilty to a separate Information charging him with the same offense which was transferred to the Northern District of West Virginia from the District of Massachusetts. He was sentenced today to an 11 month combination of imprisonment and community confinement on each count. The sentences will run concurrently. He was also ordered to pay restitution to the victim companies.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountaineer Highway Interdiction Team (MHIT) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Pittsburgh and Boston Divisions investigated. MHIT is a collaborative effort through the Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program and is comprised of officers and agents from the West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department, the Wheeling Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided over the plea hearing and U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided over the sentencing hearing.
Marion County, WV man admits to selling cocaine near local universityRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Bennie Kyle, 60, of Fairmont, West Virginia, pled guilty to cocaine trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Kyle sold cocaine base in June 2015 near Fairmont State University in Marion County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” He faces between one and 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 Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
USP Hazelton inmate charged with causing death of fellow prisonerRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging Marricco Sykes, 36, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Hazelton, with causing the death of a fellow prisoner, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Sykes is alleged to have strangled the fellow prisoner during a physical altercation in late 2015. Following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the USP Hazelton Special Investigative Services Unit, Sykes is charged with one count of “First Degree Murder.” He faces life imprisonment or the death penalty as well as a fine of up to $250,000.
The grand jury also returned indictments charging several other federal inmates within the Northern District of West Virginia with offenses including illegal threats, assault, and unlawful possession of weapons.
Jeremy E. Smith, 36, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Hazelton, is alleged to have written letters threatening to use explosives to destroy government buildings in Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, Boston and Washington, D.C. He is further alleged to have written a letter threatening the lives of President Barack Obama and former Secretary of State Hilary Clinton. Following an investigation by the United States Secret Service and the USP Hazelton Special Investigative Services Unit, Smith is charged with one count of “Threat to Damage Buildings by Use of Explosives” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison. He is further charged with one count of “Threats Against the President,” and one count of “Threats Against Member of Immediate Family of Former President.” He faces up to five years in prison on each of these counts. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000 on each of the three counts.
Antonio Lee, 33, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution at Hazelton, was allegedly discovered inside the prison in unlawful possession of a handcrafted weapon made from sharpened plastic. Following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the FCI Hazelton Special Investigative Services Unit, Lee is charged with one count of “Possession of Contraband in Prison – Weapon.” He faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Arnaldo Martinez-Gomez, 30, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Hazelton, is alleged to have assaulted a fellow prison during a physical altercation. Following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the USP Hazelton Special Investigative Services Unit, Gomez is charged with one count of “Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to Cause Bodily Harm,” and one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object – Weapon.” He faces up to 10 years in prison on the assault charge and up to five years in prison on the prohibited object charge. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000 on each of the two 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 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Montoro is prosecuting Smith, Assistant U.S. Attorney David Perri is prosecuting Lee, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar is prosecuting Gomez and Sykes on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Leader of PA to WV heroin trafficking network sentenced to nearly 11 years in prisonRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher T. Gyorko, 31, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 130 months in prison for orchestrating a multi-state heroin trafficking operation, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Gyorko coordinated and managed a drug trafficking operation designed to transport heroin across state lines from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania into Ohio and Marshall Counties in West Virginia, as well as locations in Ohio. Authorities disrupted the heroin trafficking scheme in June 2015 when Gyorko, along with five other individuals, were charged in an 18-count federal indictment. One additional defendant was charged in federal court by criminal Information. Six additional defendants were charged in state court in West Virginia.
Gyorko pled guilty in November 2015 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin.” As part of the sentenced imposed today, Gyorko was also ordered to forfeit his interest in a 2007 Chrysler 300M vehicle.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Florida man sentenced for oxycodone traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBIRG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nathaniel Walker, 34, of Miami, Florida, was sentenced today to 36 months in prison for oxycodone trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Walker was discovered in possession of oxycodone in Monongalia County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in September 2015 to an Information charging him with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation led the inquiry.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Two sentenced for drug traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals were sentenced in federal court for drug trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Khalil Brown, 34, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, sold heroin in 2014 near West Virginia University in Monongalia County, West Virginia, as part of an extensive drug trafficking network designed to transport heroin and oxycodone across state lines from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Morgantown, West Virginia for redistribution and sale throughout the region. He pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” He was sentenced to 92 months in prison.
Harvey Orlando Higgs, 30, of Morgantown, West Virginia, sold cocaine in March 2015 in Monongalia County. He pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” He was sentenced to 37 months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda 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.
Clarksburg man sentenced to 20 years for distributing child pornographyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Hood, 34, of Clarksburg, was sentenced to 240 months in prison for transmitting images of child pornography, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
In August 2015, Hood utilized his smartphone to distribute and transmit images depicting a minor engaged in explicit conduct. Hood pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Transportation of Child Pornography.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Brooke County, WV man pleads guilty to methamphetamine traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles A. Marker, 40, of Wellsburg, West Virginia, pled guilty in federal court to methamphetamine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.Throughout 2015, Marker conspired with additional individuals to manufacture, possesses, and distribute methamphetamine in Brooke County, West Virginia.
Marker pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Methamphetamine.” He faces up to 20 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 Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Hancock, Brooke, Weirton Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Wheeling man sentenced to 151 months for cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dondie Williams, 36, of Wheeling, was sentenced today to 151 months in prison for cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Williams was discovered in possession of cocaine base in late 2014 in Ohio County, West Virginia. He was charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” He pled guilty in January 2016 to a lesser included offense of the aforementioned charge.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin 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.
Jury finds Jefferson County man guilty of methamphetamine traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict yesterday convicting Francisco Gaspar Sanchez, 56, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, of methamphetamine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Evidence presented at trial indicated that Sanchez conspired with another individual to sell crystal methamphetamine in Jefferson County, West Virginia. Specifically, Sanchez was discovered in possession of methamphetamine in Jefferson County in April 2014.
Following a two day trial, a jury found Sanchez guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” He faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000 on each of the two 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. Attorneys Paul Camilletti and Anna Krasinski, along with Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher, also of the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Three Elkins residents charged in counterfeit money schemeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging three Elkins residents with fraudulently using counterfeit money to obtain authentic currency and other goods, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Marc G. Collett, 34, Robert R. Teter, 29, and Jonathan J. Ross, 29, all of Elkins, are alleged to have repeatedly exchanged counterfeit money in order to obtain authentic United States currency, debit cards, and merchandise in Harrison County, West Virginia in late 2014.
All three defendants are charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Utter Counterfeit Obligations or Securities” and two counts of “Uttering Counterfeit Obligations or Securities – Aiding and Abetting.” Collett is further charged with three additional counts of “Uttering Counterfeit Obligations or Securities – Aiding and Abetting.” Teter is further charged with two additional count of “Uttering Counterfeit Obligations or Securities – Aiding and Abetting.” The defendants each face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each of the aforementioned charges. 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 Montoro is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service, the Clarksburg, West Virginia Police Department, and the West Virginia State Police are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Maryland man pleads guilty to lying to purchase firearmsRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jarrud Michael Dixon, 26, of New Market, Maryland, pled guilty in federal court today to providing false information in order to purchase firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Throughout 2013 and 2014, Dixon conspired with other individuals, including a licensed firearms dealer in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, to unlawfully transport firearms across state lines from West Virginia into Maryland. Specifically, Dixon attempted to purchase two firearms in Pocahontas County by falsely stating that the firearms were being purchased for a different individual who could lawfully purchase firearms in West Virginia.
Dixon pled guilty today to one count of “False Statement in Firearms Dealer Records.” 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. Attorneys Stephen Warner and Sarah Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Baltimore, Maryland Police Department investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Brooke County, WV man charged with failure to update sex offender registrationRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging convicted sex offender Christopher Barker, 27, of Follansbee, West Virginia, with moving across state lines without updating his sex offender registration status, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Barker, also known as Christopher D. Cooper, was previously convicted in Ohio County, West Virginia of “First Degree Sexual Assault Involving a Minor.” As a result of that conviction, Barker is required to register as a sex offender. Barker is alleged to have moved from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Follansbee, West Virginia in late 2015 without updating his sex offender registration status.
Barker is charged with one count of “Failure to Register and Update Registration as a Sex Offender.” 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 Stephen Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Police Department are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Five convicted in cigarette smuggling operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Five individuals pled guilty in federal court to unlawful cigarette smuggling, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Mohamed Abdo Elbarati, 30, of Winchester, Virginia, Farouk Mohamed Aldaylam, 29, of Queens Village, New York, Fahd Hamood Aljahaf, 38, of Bronx, New York, Galal Hameed Kassim, 30, and Muneer Kaid Khaled, 26, both of Brooklyn, New York, collaborated to facilitate a trafficking network designed profit from the unlawful sale of contraband cigarettes. The defendants transported large quantities of cigarettes across state lines for redistribution and sale. The cigarettes were acquired in Virginia, where the tax rate for cigarettes is one of the lowest in the nation, and sold in New York, which has one of the nation’s highest tax rates. The cigarettes were possessed and transported in West Virginia.
Each of the five defendants pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Traffic in Contraband Cigarettes.” Each of the defendants faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Stein and Shawn Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. Homeland Security Investigations, the Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office, the Virginia Office of Attorney General, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, the West Virginia State Police, the New York Department of Taxation and Finance, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation led the inquiry.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Philadelphia, PA man sentenced for heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Charles Wade, III, 28, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was sentenced today to twenty months and nine days in prison for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Wade sold heroin near a Harrison County, West Virginia middle school. He pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda Wesley and Stephen Warner along with former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Detroit to Morgantown heroin trafficking scheme splintered by arrests, federal indictmentsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Federal indictments were unsealed today charging 14 people with facilitating a Michigan to Morgantown heroin trafficking operation, according to United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II.
A federal grand jury returned three separate indictments alleging that a group of individuals from Detroit traveled to Morgantown to operate a heroin distribution ring in North Central West Virginia. The indictments allege that heroin was repeatedly sold near a variety of protected locations in Monongalia County in 2014 and 2015.“Today’s operation, highlights the critical role our task forces play in combating heroin and other illegal drug trafficking and the violent criminal enterprises that attempt to take root in our neighborhoods,” said Special Agent in Charge Scott S. Smith of the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office. “Federal penalties for drug trafficking are severe, and the FBI will continue to work with our local, state and Federal partners to stop the flow of illegal drugs and to dismantle the violent criminal enterprises that facilitate the flow.”
Today, many of the defendants were taken into custody during a coordinated, multi-agency arrest operation in West Virginia and Michigan. Those arrested on heroin trafficking charges today include:
• Draylon Eric Beecham, also known as “Wood,” 40, of Detroit, Michigan,
• Keith Antonio Cohens, also known as “Jay,” 34, of Detroit, Michigan,
• James Leon Fisher, also known as “D,” 29, of Detroit, Michigan,
• Craig S. Coffee, also known as “Mack,” 48, of Detroit, Michigan,
• An unidentified individual known as “Mac,” of Detroit, Michigan,
• Michaelo Merone, 30, of Miami, Florida,
• Daniel Ross Sims, 26, of Morgantown, West Virginia,
• Debra Bolden, 45, of Morgantown, West Virginia, and
• Justin Donald Myers, 36, of Morgantown, West Virginia.
Two additional drug trafficking suspects not connected with the aforementioned indictments were identified and arrested during today’s operation and are currently facing state charges.Several individuals have not yet been located, including:
• Darrin Lawrence Broadnax, also known as “Silk,” 48, of Detroit, Michigan,
• Romelle DeShaun Stevens, also known as “Bishop,” 26, of Detroit, Michigan,
• Jeffrey Allen Motley, also known as “G,” 24, of Detroit, Michigan,
• Robert Tucker, also known as “Diego,” 22, of Detroit, Michigan, and
• Ryan Hayworth, 21, of Mullens, West Virginia.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the aforementioned individuals is encouraged to contact the United States Marshals Service at (304) 623-0486.
Monongalia County, West Virginia Sheriff Al Kisner applauded the “diligence and hard work of each of the investigating agencies involved in today’s operation. The arrests made today are the direct result of the close working relationship that has been forged among local, state, and federal authorities. This investigation sends a clear message to local residents and to those individuals engaged in criminal activity, that we are committed to responding aggressively and intelligently to perceived drug trafficking threats and that we will not allow those who seek to profit from the sale of illegal drugs to takeroot in our neighborhoods.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force is leading the investigation. The Mon Metro Drug Task Force is a collaborative, multi-agency initiative comprised of representatives from the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Morgantown Police Department, the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia University Police Department, the Granville Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Wheeling woman sentenced for cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jennifer Vensel, 38, of Wheeling, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Vensel was discovered in possession of cocaine base in late 2014 in Ohio County, West Virginia. Following an investigation by the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, she pled guilty in May 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Mineral County, WV man convicted of unlawful possession of nine firearmsRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eric Donald Wilson, 45, of Ridgeley, West Virginia, pled guilty to unlawful possession of firearms today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Wilson, who has a previous felony conviction in state court in Maryland, was discovered in September 2015 in unlawful possession of nine firearms in Mineral County, West Virginia. He was previously convicted of the felony offense of “Second Degree Assault” in the District Court for Baltimore City, Maryland.
Wilson pled guilty today to one count of “Felon in Possession of a 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 Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Clarksburg man sentenced for heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brian K. Dixon, 47, of Clarksburg, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Dixon sold heroin in Harrison County. He pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
USP Hazelton inmate sentenced for assaulting fellow prisonerRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Deonte Spicer, 29, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary Hazelton, was sentenced today to an additional 70 months in prison for assaulting a fellow prisoner, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Following a two day trial in October 2015, a jury found Spicer guilty of one count of “Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm.” Evidence presented at trial indicated that Spicer stabbed a fellow inmate multiple times with a hand crafted weapon during a physical altercation in February 2015.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Special Investigative Services Unit at USP Hazelton investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Two Clarksburg, WV residents sentenced for heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Harrison County, West Virginia residents were sentenced in federal court today for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Alisha R. O’Dell, 24, of Clarksburg, sold heroin in Harrison County, West Virginia. She pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.” She was sentenced today to 15 months in prison.
Shawn Bryant, 33, of Clarksburg, was discovered in possession of heroin in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” He was sentenced today to twelve months and one day in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Montoro and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted Bryant and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn Adkins and Stephen Warner prosecuted O’Dell on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated both defendants.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Pennsylvania man pleads guilty to participating in multi-state heroin, painkiller trafficking schemeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kalif Briggs, 33, of Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, was convicted in federal court today for his role in a multi-state heroin and oxycodone trafficking operation, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Briggs participated in a drug trafficking network that cause quantities of heroin and oxycodone to be transported across state lines from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Morgantown, West Virginia for redistribution and sale throughout the region. The operation was disrupted in November 2014 when Briggs, along with 20 other individuals, was charged in a 65-count federal indictment.
Specifically, Briggs sold oxycodone in 2014 in Monongalia County, West Virginia. Briggs pled guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Oxycodone.” He faces up to 20 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 Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Wetzel County, WV man convicted of unlawful possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Eric Brandon Lemasters, 33, of Jacksonburg, West Virginia, pled guilty to unlawful possession of four firearms today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Lemasters, who has a previous felony conviction in state court in Ohio, was discovered in July 2015 in unlawful possession of two rifles, a shotgun, and a pistol in Wetzel County, West Virginia. He was previously convicted of the felony offense of “Grand Theft” in the Court of Common Pleas of Lake County, Ohio.
Lemasters pled guilty today to one count of “Felon in Possession of a 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 David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Doddridge County, WV woman sentenced for selling heroin near playgroundRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Amanda Dawn Arth, 35, of Greenwood, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 27 months in prison for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Arth sold heroin in April 2015 near Broadway Playground in Harrison County, West Virginia. She pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen Vogrin, Andrew Cogar, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Paden City, WV man convicted of unlawful possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin Ray Morgan, 40, of Paden City, West Virginia, was convicted of unlawful possession of firearms today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Morgan, who has a previous felony conviction in Tyler County, was discovered in unlawful possession of two firearms in October 2015 in Tyler County. Morgan was convicted of “Failure to Appear” in the Circuit Court of Tyler County.
Morgan pled guilty today to one count of “Felon in Possession of a 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 David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Tyler County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Maryland man sentenced for orchestrating multi-state heroin trafficking operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brian Alexander Hall, 27, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced today to 100 months in prison for leading a multi-state heroin distribution network, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Hall sold heroin in the Baltimore, Maryland area. A large group of individuals repeatedly travelled across state lines to procure quantities of heroin from Hall in Maryland, and the surrounding region. The individuals then returned to locations in West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania to redistribute the heroin. Hall pled guilty in November 2015 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin.”
Hall, along with 40 other individuals, was charged in a 163-count federal indictment in June 2015. Three additional defendants involved in the heroin trafficking scheme were also sentenced in federal court today.
Jessica Kesecker, 33, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” She was sentenced today to 35 months in prison.
Josh Reid, 33, of Martinsburg, pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” He was sentenced today to 30 months in prison.
Bruce Morton Vaudrien, Jr., 46, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin,” one count of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” He was sentenced today to 27 months in prison on each count. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 27 months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Paul Camilletti 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.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Hancock County, WV man convicted of possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ryan Bobby Schnettler, 25, of Weirton, West Virginia, was convicted of possession of child pornography today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.Schnettler was discovered in possession of child pornography in October 2015 in Hancock County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to an Information charging him with “Possession of Child Pornography.”
Schnettler 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 Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Four sentenced for drug traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Four individuals were sentenced in federal court in Martinsburg today for various drug trafficking offenses, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Joseph Perry, 31, of Gerrardstown, West Virginia, attempted to purchase heroin in March 2015 in Berkeley County. He pled guilty in October 2015 to an Information charging him with one count of “Aiding and Abetting Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” He was sentenced today to 32 months in prison.
Earl Ferguson, 46, of Inwood, West Virginia, sold oxycodone in July 2015 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in November 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.” He was sentenced today to 21 months in prison.
Elliot Iwon Reed, 32, of Baltimore, Maryland, sold heroin and cocaine in Berkeley County. He pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base and Heroin.” He was sentenced today to 21 months in prison.
Jesus Demas Valencia, 48, of Martinsburg, sold cocaine in Berkeley County. He pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine.” He was sentenced today to 12 months in prison.
Assistant United States Attorneys Paul Camilletti and Anna Krasinski prosecuted Ferguson, Perry, and Valencia on behalf of the government. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas also prosecuted Valencia on behalf of the government. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Taylor, also of the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, prosecuted Reed on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated each of the defendants. The Federal Bureau of Investigation also investigated Ferguson and Perry.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Two sentenced for drug traffickingRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals were sentenced in federal court today for drug trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Vincent Paul Gibson, 29, of Coalton, West Virginia, was discovered in Randolph County, West Virginia, in possession of materials commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine. Those materials included plastic bottles, batteries, rubber tubing, empty packages of medication containing pseudoephedrine, coffee filters, drain cleaner, mason jars, and instant ice compresses. Following an investigation by the Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, he pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Possession of Material used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.” He was sentenced today to 48 months in prison.
Santos Macedoni Barragan, 31, of Moorefield, West Virginia, sold cocaine near an elementary and secondary school in Hardy County, West Virginia. Following an investigation by the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, he pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine within 1,000 Feet of a School.” He was sentenced today to 12 months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Local students learn the facts about drugs from U.S. Attorney’s OfficeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Area elementary school students learned the facts about drugs and alcohol today as part of National Drug Facts Week, recognized from January 25 through 31, 2016, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Since 2010, the National Institute on Drug Abuse has coordinated National Drugs and Alcohol Facts Week, an annual series of events and promotional campaigns designed to connect young people with experts and resources to shatter common myths and misperceptions about substance abuse by providing factual, easy to understand information about illicit drugs. This year, the National Institute on Drug Abuse has partnered with the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism to incorporate key information related to alcohol.
Today, United States Attorney Ihlenfeld facilitated an interactive presentation and discussion with fifth grade students at Bethlehem Elementary School in Ohio County, West Virginia. Ihlenfeld spoke with the students about a variety of topics, including commonly abused drugs, the impact of illicit substances on the human brain, the science behind substance abuse disorders, and the importance of recognizing and speaking up about the signs of addiction.
“Educating young people is a critical component in the ongoing effort to combat the drug problem facing West Virginia,” said Ihlenfeld. “Children are exposed to information about illegal drugs from a variety of sources and we want to empower them to make informed, healthy decisions based on accurate information.”
Throughout National Drug Facts Week, the United States Attorney’s Office will also utilize its @NDWVnews Twitter account to engage in a social media campaign to highlight important factual information regarding substance abuse and addiction, including the science of addiction, marijuana, prescription painkillers, heroin, and resources available for individuals struggling with substance abuse disorders.
Individuals interested in obtaining additional information about National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week or finding factual information on substance abuse and illegal drugs are encouraged to visit the National Institute on Drug Abuse website at www.drugabuse.gov. Individuals, educators, and other community organizations interested in scheduling substance abuse education initiatives and events in the Northern District of West Virginia are encouraged to contact Tara Tighe at the United States Attorney’s Office at (304) 234-0100.
Marshall County, WV woman convicted of unlawful possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Tricia Renee Thames, 36, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was convicted of unlawful possession of firearms today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Thames pled guilty today to an Information charging her with one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” Thames, who has a felony conviction for “Manslaughter” from the State of Oklahoma, was discovered to be in possession of a .357 caliber revolver and a .22 caliber pistol in Ohio County, West Virginia in 2015.
She 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 offense 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 investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Marion County, WV man convicted of unlawful possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Basile, 64, of Fairview, West Virginia, pled guilty in federal court today to unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Basile pled guilty today to an Information charging him with one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearms.” Basile was discovered in possession of two stolen firearms in Marion and Monongalia Counties.
He faces up to 10 years in prison and fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Clarksburg, WV man convicted of heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Randy Joe Jones, 32, of Clarksburg, was convicted of heroin trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Jones sold heroin near Harrison Street Park in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin Within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” He faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $4,000,000. 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 Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Preston County, WV man sentenced to 15 years in prison for production of child pornographyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert J. Gongloff, 26, of Terra Alta, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 180 months in prison after he admitted to producing child pornography, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Gongloff, originally from Preston County and now a resident of Weirton, West Virginia, pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Production of Child Pornography.” By pleading guilty, Gongloff admitted that he had produced numerous images and videos depicting nude minors and minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Authorities further discovered that Gongloff misrepresented his name and age on a website known as MeetMe.com, claiming to be 17 years old and using the name “Johnny Williamson,” in order to transmit sexually explicit photographs to multiple minor females.
"This conviction and sentence should serve as a stern warning about the consequences awaiting individuals who prey on the most vulnerable members of our communities - our children," said John Kelleghan, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations’ Philadelphia Field Office. "Protecting our children from predators remains an HSI priority, and we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify, arrest and bring these predators to justice."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation with assistance from the West Virginia State Police
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Four charged with lying to unlawfully procure firearmsRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments on Wednesday charging four individuals with lying to unlawfully obtain firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Curtessa Monet Franklin, 21, of Canton, Massachusetts, is alleged to have traveled to West Virginia and conspired with Deven Deloreece Johnson, 21, and Ashanta Renea Marshman, 22, both of Martinsburg, to provide false information in order to unlawfully purchase firearms. On at least two occasions in December 2015, the defendants allegedly attempted to purchase firearms in Berkeley County, West Virginia by falsely claiming that Johnson and Marshman were purchasing the firearms for themselves. In fact, they were attempting to purchase the firearms for Franklin.
Franklin, Johnson, and Marshman are charged with “Conspiracy to Provide a False Statement During the Attempted Purchase of a Firearm.” Franklin is also charged with two counts of “False Statement During the Attempted Purchase of a Firearm.” Johnson and Marshman are also charged with one count of “False Statement During the Attempted Purchase of a Firearm.” The defendants face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each count. The ATF and West Virginia State Police investigated.In a separate matter, Christopher Lee Linn, 29, of Maryland, was indicted on one count of “False Statement in Acquisition of a Firearm,” one count of “Aggravated Identity Theft,” and two counts of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” Linn is alleged to have stolen the identity of another individual and used that information to unlawfully pawn and then re-acquire a firearm in Berkeley County. Linn was previously convicted of a felony in Allegany County, Maryland and therefore is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Linn faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the three firearms charges and an additional two years in prison for the aggravated identify theft charge. The matter was investigated by the ATF, the West Virginia State Police, and the Allegany County, Maryland Combined County Criminal Investigation Unit.
“The ATF Washington Field Division is dedicated to making the community safer by preventing criminals from illegally obtaining firearms,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Michael Boxler. “These investigations, in conjunction with the West Virginia State Police, show our commitment to prosecuting those who seek to purchase firearms unlawfully or on behalf of prohibited persons in West Virginia."
U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld met this week with prosecutors from Berkeley, Jefferson and Morgan County to encourage the continued collaboration between state and federal authorities in the investigation of firearms-related offenses.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti is prosecuting Linn and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins is prosecuting Franklin, Johnson and Marshman on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Harrison County, WV man sentenced for heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeremiah Robert Dodrill, 34, of Spelter, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months in prison for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced. Jeremiah Dodrill sold heroin in October 2014 near Spelter Park, a playground located in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” Jeremiah Dodrill’s wife, Kasandra Faith Dodrill, 27, also of Spelter, allowed the Harrison County, West Virginia residence that she shared with Jeremiah Dodrill to be used to store and distribute heroin. She pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises – Aiding and Abetting.” She was sentenced today to 4 months in prison. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Clarksburg man sentenced for heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Larry D. Saunders, 40, of Clarksburg, was sentenced today to 21 months in prison for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Saunders sold heroin in April 2015 near a Harrison County, West Virginia playground. He pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location – Aiding and Abetting.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted Saunders on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Monongalia County man sentenced for cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Larry Taylor, 71, of Osage, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Taylor sold cocaine in Monongalia County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in January 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Hydrochloride.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda 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.
Federal designation brings new resources to Jefferson CountyRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA – The addition of Jefferson County, West Virginia to a federal anti-drug trafficking program will bolster efforts to loosen the grip of addiction in the Eastern Panhandle, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Yesterday, Jefferson County was designated as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). The HIDTA program, administered by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, brings additional federal resources to regions of the United States that have been particularly impacted by drug trafficking and substance abuse, such as the Eastern Panhandle. The program is designed to spark enhanced intelligence sharing, communication, and cooperation among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in order to reduce the influence of illegal drugs in regional communities.
Jefferson County will join Berkeley County as part of the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA, which also serves Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, and is a leader in innovative, rapid data collection and analysis. The intelligence resources provided will allow law enforcement in Jefferson County to take a data-driven approach to the dismantling of large-scale drug trafficking organizations.
“Jefferson County sits right in the middle of a major corridor for the transportation of drugs to the East Coast,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “Because of its proximity to large metropolitan areas and interstate highways, and because of various economic factors, it has become an extension of the Baltimore drug market. The HIDTA designation will help us to push back against drug traffickers and make our community a safer place to live and raise a family.”
“This is good news for Jefferson County,” noted Jefferson County Sheriff Pete Dougherty. “Becoming a HIDTA county brings a variety of important resources to our area that will help us to stop drugs from coming into our county, aid us in arresting drug traffickers, and improve the availability of treatment resources for those addicted to drugs. The new designation will allow us to take a more comprehensive approach with an increased focus on the underlying causes of illegal drug use. I am particularly excited to add an additional resource that allows us to better protect local residents.”
The HIDTA program was first established in 1988 through the Anti-Drug Abuse Act. Today, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy operates 28 HIDTAs throughout the United States, encompassing approximately 60% of the country’s population. Individuals interested in learning more about the program are encouraged to visit the Office of National Drug Control Policy website at www.whitehouse.gov/ondcp.
Convicted sex offender pleads guilty to transporting minor victims to engage in illicit sexual conductRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Convicted sex offender Kevin J. Wick, 43, of Wheeling, pled guilty in federal court today to traveling across state lines to engage in illicit sexual conduct with multiple minor victims, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Wick repeatedly traveled across state lines from West Virginia to Ohio throughout late 2014 and early 2015 for the purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual conduct with five minor victims all under the age of 12. On at least one occasion, Wick allegedly transported minor victims across states lines from Ohio to an apartment in West Virginia where he engaged in illicit sexual conduct with the victims.Wick pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging him with five separate counts of “Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity.” Subject to final approval by the court, Wick will be sentenced to 312 months in prison followed by supervised release for the remainder of his lifetime.
In June 2008, Wick was convicted of “Attempted Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse” and “Indecent Assault” in the Court of Common Pleas of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. As a result of that conviction, Wick is required to register as a sex offender and is listed as a “Sexually Violent Predator.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen 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 led the investigation.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Budget Finance Company investigation transferred to Southern Ohio U.S. AttorneyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The handling of the Budget Finance Company investigation has been transferred to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio.
According to federal officials, the transfer of the matter became necessary after the inquiry revealed that potential victims in the matter include Department of Justice employees who work or reside in the Northern District of West Virginia. As a result, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys determined that the case should be handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Columbus instead of federal prosecutors in West Virginia. The investigating agencies and the venue will remain the same.
All potential victims were notified of the transfer earlier this week and were encouraged to call (614) 469-5715 with any questions.