Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Lewis County, WV man convicted of synthetic drug traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John R. Burrows, 54, of Weston, West Virginia, was convicted of synthetic drug trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
In April 2014, Burrows sold a synthetic cannabinoid known as AM-2201 in a package labeled “Crown Worthy.” When depositing proceeds from the sale of these drugs into his bank accounts, he structured those deposits so as to avoid the reporting requirements of the Internal Revenue Service.
Burrows pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Distribution of a Schedule I Drug – Controlled Substance” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000, and one count of “Structuring Transactions to Evade Reporting Requirement” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McWilliams prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations led the inquiry.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Interagency group taking data-driven approach to combat health care fraudRead the Press Release
FAIRMONT, WEST VIRGINIA – State and federal law enforcement leaders joined United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II today to announce the formation of a working group that is taking a data-driven approach to the prevention of health care fraud in West Virginia.
According to Ihlenfeld, the multi-jurisdictional group is proactively evaluating the health care reimbursement data of medical providers in northern West Virginia. By using advanced statistical analysis, investigators are able to identify potentially fraudulent billing patterns and uncover waste and abuse more efficiently.
“Health care fraud continues to be a significant problem in West Virginia and throughout the country and it costs taxpayers tens of billions of dollars every year,” said Ihlenfeld. “Ultimately, health care fraud increases the cost of medical care for everyone and undermines our existing health care programs. The fraud detection tools that we’re using allow us to identify sophisticated schemes that may have escaped scrutiny in the past.”
Agencies involved in the effort include the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), the West Virginia Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the Ohio Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the West Virginia Office of the Insurance Commission, and the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.
The northern West Virginia working group is led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Montoro.
On Thursday, Ihlenfeld also announced that the United States has settled allegations that a Fairmont physician fraudulently requested reimbursement for medical services that were not actually rendered. Dr. Samer Kuzbari has paid $440,232 to resolve accusations that he submitted false claims to various health care benefit programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, and the Federal Employees Health Benefit Program.
The settlement addressed claims against Kuzbari and the Kuzbari Clinic arising under the False Claims Act, a law which allows the government to sue health care providers who submit false claims to federal health care benefit programs. The settlement resolves potential civil and administrative monetary claims, but does not preclude criminal charges.
“Medicare, TRICARE, and other programs depend upon doctors to honestly report the work that they do,” said Ihlenfeld. “When a doctor claims reimbursement for a treatment that he didn’t provide then it’s the taxpayers who are cheated. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of all federal health care programs.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan G. McGonigal represented the government in the Kuzbari matter. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Officer of Personnel Management Office of Inspector General, and the West Virginia Insurance Commission investigated.
Wheeling man sentenced for cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Cornelius Johnson, Jr., 38, of Wheeling, was sentenced today to 46 months in prison for cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Johnson repeatedly sold crack cocaine throughout 2014 in Ohio County, West Virginia. Specifically, he sold cocaine on multiple occasions near Wilson Playground in Wheeling. He pled guilty in June 2015 to:
• Four counts of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Cocaine Base,”
• Four counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location,”
• One count of “Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises,” and
• One count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.”Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Three sentenced in methamphetamine trafficking operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Garland Samuel Butler, 51, Samuel Scott Butler, 24, and Kate Lynn Baker, 21, all of Saint Marys, West Virginia, were sentenced in federal court this week for their role in a methamphetamine trafficking operation, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
The defendants sentenced this week were among six individuals charged in a 19-count federal indictment in June 2015 stemming from a methamphetamine trafficking operation in Pleasants County, West Virginia. They were each discovered in possession of pseudoephedrine, an ingredient commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine. They each pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Possession of Material Used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.”
Samuel Butler was sentenced to 24 months in prison. Garland Butler and Kate Lynn Baker were each sentenced to probation for a term of two years.Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Pleasant’s County Sheriff’s Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Three convicted in Baltimore to West Virginia heroin trafficking operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three individuals were convicted in federal court today for their role in a multi-state heroin trafficking operation, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
The defendants convicted today conspired with an extensive group of individuals to participate in drug trafficking scheme in which heroin was transported across state lines from Baltimore, Maryland into locations in West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. The operation was disrupted in June 2015 by a 163-count federal indictment encompassing 41 defendants.
Jeffrey David Murphy, 34, of Martinsburg, pled guilty today to:
• One count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000,
• One count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering” for which he faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, and
• One count of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Heroin” for which he faces up to four years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.Veronica Thomas, 24, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin.” She faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
Cameron Stinebaugh, 28, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, pled guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” 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 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the inquiry.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Ohio man sentenced for selling bath salts and synthetic drugsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Skruck, 59, of Youngstown, Ohio, was sentenced today to 41 months in prison for his role in distributing bath salts and synthetic drugs through local retail stores, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Skruck was a manager of the Hot Stuff Cool Things retail shops in Clarksburg and Buckhannon. He participated in a scheme to distribute bath salts and synthetic drugs. He also structured financial transactions to avoid reporting more than $200,000 to the Internal Revenue Service.
Skruck pled guilty in December 2014 to one count of “Drug Conspiracy” and one count of “Structuring Monetary Transactions to Evade the Reporting Requirement.” He was sentenced today to 41 months in prison on each count. The sentences will run concurrent with each other for a total of 41 months in prison. As part of the sentence imposed today, Skruck will also forfeit multiple parcels of real property, U.S. currency and bank accounts, vehicles, heavy equipment, a trailer, and a professional embroidery machine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert McWilliams and Michael Stein along with Special Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, the Three Rivers Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, and the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Two sentenced for heroin, oxycodone traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals were sentenced in federal court today for heroin and oxycodone trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Marvin Pierre Ledbetter, Jr., 30, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 120 months in prison after he pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone – Aiding and Abetting.” He was discovered in possession of oxycodone pills in Harrison County, West Virginia following an investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Gregory Morris, Jr., 33, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 96 months and 20 days months in prison for selling heroin near a playground in Monongalia County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in May 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin in within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location” following an investigation by the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted Morris and Wesley, along with former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan, prosecuted Ledbetter on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Berkeley County woman convicted of heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ariana Shanae Parker, 24, of Martinsburg, was convicted of heroin trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Parker sold heroin in Berkeley County, West Virginia. She pled guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.” She 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.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Taylor 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 Robert W. Trumble presided
Leader of Maryland to West Virginia heroin trafficking operation convicted in federal courtRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brian Alexander Hall, 27, of Windsor, Maryland, was convicted of heroin trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Hall orchestrated an extensive, multi-state heroin distribution network in which a large group of individuals repeatedly travelled across state lines to procure quantities of heroin from Hall in Baltimore, Maryland, and the surrounding region. The individuals then returned to locations in West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania to redistribute the heroin obtained from Hall.
Federal authorities interrupted the operation in June 2015 when 41 individuals were charged in 163-count indictment. Three of the individuals that participated in the operation have been sentenced, and an additional 30 defendants have pled guilty in federal court and will be sentenced in the coming months.
Hall pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin.” 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 Anna Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County man convicted of oxycodone traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Earl Ferguson, 46, of Inwood, West Virginia, was convicted of prescription painkiller trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Ferguson sold oxycodone in July 2015 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “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 Anna Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Six sentenced for heroin, painkiller traffickingRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Six individuals were sentenced in federal court today for heroin and prescription pill trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Jonathan Paul Calain, 38, of Elkins, was sentenced today to 78 months in prison after he admitted that he conspired with multiple other individuals to possess and distribute oxycodone in Randolph County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in February 2015 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone.” The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, the West Virginia State Police, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Department, the Upshur County Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Internal Revenue Service investigated.
In another matter, five individuals were sentenced in federal court today for selling heroin and prescription medications throughout 2014 and 2015 in Grant County, West Virginia following an investigation by the West Virginia State Police and the Potomac Highlands Task Force.
Richard Dean Gibson, 32, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months in prison for selling heroin in May 2014 in Grant County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in July 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.”
John Daniel Barnett, 39, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for selling heroin in May 2104 in Grant County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in July 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.”
Kaylei Oressa Wilson, 26, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 6 months in prison for selling heroin in August 2014 in Grant County, West Virginia. She pled guilty in July 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.”
Autumn Lyn Forbeck, 24, of Frostburg, Maryland, was sentenced today to three years of probation after she was discovered in possession of heroin in June 2014 in Grant County, West Virginia. She pled guilty in July 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.”
Sandra Elizabeth Gibbins, 58, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced today to two years of probation for selling heroin in May 2014 in Grant County, West Virginia. She pled guilty in July 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted Calain and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Stein prosecuted the remaining defendants on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Clarksburg, WV man convicted of selling morphine near local collegeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Michael Conley, 38, of Clarksburg, was convicted of morphine trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Conley sold morphine in September 2014 near Pierpont Community and Technical College in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Morphine 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. Attorneys Shawn Adkins and Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Two former post office employees charged with embezzling fundsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments today charging Ceressa B. Patterson, 29, of Fairview, West Virginia, and Rose Munro, 53, of Wana, West Virginia, with stealing funds from the United States Postal Service, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Patterson, formerly employed at the Pentress, West Virginia Post Office, and Munro, formerly employed at the Wana, West Virginia Post Office, are each alleged to have embezzled nearly $2,000 from their respective post offices by taking proceeds from the sale of money orders, stamps, and postage meter transactions for their own personal use.
Patterson and Munro are each charged with one count of “Misappropriation of Postal Funds.” They each face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General is leading the investigations.
The federal grand jury also returned an indictment alleging that John Michael Keeney, 35, of Webster Springs, West Virginia, stole blank money order forms from a post office in Cowen, West Virginia. He is charged with one count of “Theft of Postal Money Orders.” He faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The United States Postal Inspection Service is leading the investigation.
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 Patterson and Munro and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar is prosecuting Keeney on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Upshur County men sentenced for manufacturing, possessing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two residents of Upshur County, West Virginia were sentenced in federal court today for manufacturing and possessing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Dustin Lynn Phillips, 33, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months in prison after he possessed and distributed methamphetamine in Upshur County, West Virginia throughout 2014. He pled guilty in July 2015 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – Aiding and Abetting.” The Upshur County Sheriff’s Office and the Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
Steven S. Bennett, 40, also of Buckhannon, was sentenced today to twelve months and one day in prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $18,461 for manufacturing methamphetamine in Randolph County, West Virginia in October 2014. He pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Manufacturing Methamphetamine.” The Buckhannon Police Department investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted Phillips and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Montoro prosecuted Bennett on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Two Marion County, WV residents charged with cocaine, prescription drug traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments today charging Bertha Horton, 55, and Bennie Kyle, 60, both of Fairmont, West Virginia, with cocaine and prescription drug trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Horton, also known as “Peaches,” allegedly sold cocaine on multiple occasions in May 2014 near East Fairmont Junior High School in Marion County, West Virginia. She is charged with three counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” She faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000 on each of the three counts.
Kyle allegedly sold cocaine and lisdexamphetamine, a medication commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, on multiple occasions throughout June and July 2015 in Marion County. Specifically, he is alleged to have sold these drugs on multiple occasions near Fairmont State University and Fifth Street Park. He is charged with two counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Distribution of Lisdexamphetamine within 1000’ of a Protected Location,” and one count of “Distribution of Lisdexamphetamine.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000 on the distribution charge and between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000 on each of the three protected location 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 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force is leading the investigations.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Berkeley County men sentenced for firearms offensesRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men from Berkeley County, West Virginia were sentenced for violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
William Gene George, Jr., 44, of Martinsburg, was sentenced to 51 months in prison for unlawful possession of a firearm. George was previously convicted of “Felony Child Neglect” in the Circuit Court of Berkeley County, West Virginia in 2007. As a result of that conviction, he is prohibited form possessing firearms. He was subsequently discovered in unlawful possession of a .22 caliber long rifle.
George pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Kody William Brown, 21, of Inwood, West Virginia, was sentenced to 5 months in prison for lying while attempting to purchase a firearm. In February 2015, Brown attempted to purchase a .357 caliber revolver from a licensed firearms dealer in Morgan County, West Virginia. He misled the firearms dealer by indicating that he was purchasing the firearm for himself. In fact, he was purchasing the firearm for another individual who was prohibited from lawfully purchasing the gun.
Brown pled guilty in August 2015 to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “False Statement During Purchas of a Firearm.” The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti prosecuted Brown and Camilletti, along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski, prosecuted George on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Marion County, WV man charged with unlawful possession of firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging Antonio Cottingham, 28, of Fairmont, West Virginia, with unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Cottingham was previously convicted in the Northern District of West Virginia of the felony offenses of “Distribution of Crack Cocaine” and “Escape from Custody.” He was also previously convicted in state court in West Virginia of the felony offense of “Conspiracy to Commit a Felony Against the Sate.” As a result of these convictions, he is prohibited from possessing firearms. He was allegedly discovered in possession of a .44 caliber revolver in August 2015 in Fairmont, West Virginia.
Cottingham is charged with 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 is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Fairmont, West Virginia Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are leading the investigation.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrison County, WV woman convicted of heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Miranda D. Swiger, 21, of Stonewood, West Virginia, was convicted of heroin trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Swiger, also known as “MiMi,” was discovered in possession of heroin in January 2015 in Taylor County, West Virginia. She pled guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin – Aiding and Abetting.” She 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 and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Aloi presided.
Harrison County, WV woman charged with prescription pill traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging Brittney Michelle Walls, 26, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, with prescription medication trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Walls was allegedly discovered in possession of buprenorphine, a schedule three controlled substance used to treat pain and opioid addiction, and alprazolam, a schedule four controlled substance used to treat anxiety, in May 2015 in Harrison County, West Virginia.
Walls is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.” She faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for possessing schedule four controlled substances and up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000 for possessing schedule three controlled substances. 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 Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police are leading the investigation.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Berkeley County, WV man sentenced to seven years for heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Jose Roberts, 63, of Martinsburg, was sentenced to 84 months in prison for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
A federal grand jury recently returned an indictment charging Roberts with multiple heroin trafficking offenses following the death of a female victim who used heroin allegedly purchased from Roberts in Berkeley County, West Virginia in May 2014. He pled guilty in August 2015 to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Barbour County man sentenced for marijuana traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles Shawn Shannon, 55, of Belington, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for marijuana trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Shannon was one of four individuals charged in March 2015 in a 16-count federal indictment with participating in an extensive oxycodone and marijuana trafficking operation. Specifically, Shannon distributed marijuana in Barbour County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Marijuana.” As part of the sentenced imposed today, Shannon was also ordered to pay a fine in the amount of $5,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force led the investigation. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Pennsylvania man convicted of heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rholan D. Pryor, 25, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was convicted of heroin trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Pryor, also known as “G,” sold heroin in April 2014 in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin – Aiding and Abetting.” 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 Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Local officials prepared to transition inmates back into Northern West Virginia communitiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Beginning November 2, 44 federal inmates will return to the Northern District of West Virginia pursuant to the United States Sentencing Commission’s decision to modify the sentencing guidelines for certain federal drug offenses, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, and Chief U.S. Probation Officer Terry L. Huffman announced.
In 2014, after receiving nearly 80,000 public comments and holding two public hearings, the United States Sentencing Commission voted unanimously to modify the sentences of certain federal drug offenders. Congress then considered the Sentencing Commission’s recommendation and did not vote to disapprove the sentencing change. The change became effective November 1, 2014. The Commission allotted one calendar year for courts and the Bureau of Prisons to prepare for the releases.
“Some current Bureau of Prisons inmates are scheduled for an early release beginning November 2. As we always do, we have notified area law enforcement agencies about the release of these individuals. We have also entered their names into a national database to ensure that law enforcement everywhere will know that these individuals are under supervised release,” noted Huffman. “While the number of inmates returning nationwide is large, here in the Northern District of West Virginia the number of releases is very manageable. This has been an issue where we have had adequate notice. We have had over a year to prepare for these inmates being released, and we are prepared to monitor them once they are released.”
Approximately 68% of inmates returning to Northern West Virginia have already been placed under supervision in halfway houses (43%) or home confinement (25%). Approximately 26% of inmates returning to Northern West Virginia will be released from prison. Additional inmates currently incarcerated within the Northern District of West Virginia may be released to other districts or to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for potential deportation. The Bureau of Prisons and United States Probation and Pretrial Services have collaborated to ensure that all released inmates receive proper supervision and reentry services.
“The Bureau of Prisons has extensive experience in successfully transitioning inmates back into society,” noted Ihlenfeld. “We are confident the upcoming release will have a minimal impact upon the communities in Northern West Virginia. We are not anticipating a large influx of prisoners released into our district and those inmates that are released will be closely supervised as they transition back into our neighborhoods. ”
The sentencing reductions are not automatic. Federal judges must carefully consider public safety and have the discretion to approve or deny the reduction of a particular inmate’s sentence. As of July 2015, judges had denied approximately 25% of petitions received across the country. Many of the federal drug offenders will serve substantial prison sentences before they are eligible for release.
The United States Sentencing Commission is an independent agency in the judicial branch composed of seven voting and two non-voting members. Its principal purpose is to establish sentencing policies and practices for the federal criminal justice system that will assure the ends of justice by promulgating detailed guidelines prescribing the appropriate sentences for offenders convicted of federal crimes.
Maryland man convicted of heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – LaQuan Johnson, 35, of Baltimore, Maryland, was convicted of heroin trafficking in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Johnson sold heroin in April 2014 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” As a result of his guilty plea, Johnson will be sentenced to 180 months in prison.
Johnson was charged in a 6-count superseding indictment in April 2015. The indictment alleged various heroin and cocaine trafficking offenses. One count of the indictment specifically indicated that Johnson sold heroin containing fentanyl, a powerful painkiller, in Berkeley County, West Virginia in June 2014 which led to the death and serious bodily injury of another individual.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Camilletti, Robert McWilliams, and Anna 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.
Marion County, WV man convicted of cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael T. Figueroa, Jr., 28, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was convicted of cocaine trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Figueroa sold cocaine base in January 2015 in Marion County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” 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 Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
West Virginia officer honored by United States Attorney GeneralRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – DEA Special Agent Mark Simala was honored this week by United States Attorney General Loretta Lynch at the 63rd Annual Attorney General’s Awards Ceremony for his bravery in saving the life of a Morgantown man last year.
Attorney General Lynch presented Simala, who is the Commander of the Hancock, Brooke, Weirton Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, with the Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Heroism in recognition of his acts to aid citizens in danger. On November 19, 2014, Simala was traveling to Clarksburg, West Virginia, to complete his quarterly firearms qualification when he came upon a four vehicle accident along Interstate 79. Without regard for his personal safety, Simala took action and rescued an unconscious victim, John Robert Phillips, from his burning vehicle shortly before it became engulfed in flames. Had Simala not acted, Phillips undoubtedly would have perished inside the burning vehicle. Phillips is said to be doing well and recovering from his injuries.
During the incident, Simala suffered burns to his outer clothing, smoke inhalation as well as several small but treatable cuts to his right hand.
“Special Agent Simala’s heroic efforts grabbed the attention of the Attorney General and she recognized him this week for his bravery, composure, and strength of character,” said United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II. “Mark carries these qualities with him at all times, whether he is investigating drug dealers or saving the life of a stranger on the side of the highway.”
Simala joined the United States Drug Enforcement Administration as a Special Agent in 1996. Simala was assigned to the Hancock, Brooke, Weirton Drug and Violent Crime Task Force in 1999 and was selected as the Task Force Commander in 2010.
Ritchie County woman sentenced for health care fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Sherri J. Slaven, 51, of Ellenboro, West Virginia, was sentenced today for health care fraud and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $133,968.83, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Slaven operated a home health care business and she engaged in a scheme to defraud the West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commission Workers’ Compensation Old Fund by repeatedly submitting claims for various health care services that she never performed. She received fraudulent compensation in excess of $100,000 for services that were not provided. Slaven pled guilty in July 2015 to one count of “Health Care Fraud.” In addition to the restitution ordered today, Slaven was sentenced to probation for a term of five years, with the first eight months on home detention.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia Office of the Insurance Commission Office of Inspector General – Fraud Investigations Unit led the inquiry.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Ohio man sentenced to nearly 11 years for traveling to engage in unlawful sexual conduct with minor victimRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Patrick W. Ganim, 30, of, Chagrin Falls, Ohio, was sentenced today to 130 months in prison for traveling across state lines to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor female, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Ganim communicated with a minor female residing in the Northern District of West Virginia utilizing a variety of internet resources and online messaging tools. In October 2014, Ganim traveled across state lines from Ohio into West Virginia. He then engaged in illicit sexual conduct with the victim. Following their initial meeting, Ganim continued to utilize online messaging services to communicate with the minor victim, planning a subsequent meeting and sending explicit material to the victim. He pled guilty in June 2015 to one count of “Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Preston County Sheriff’s Office, the Bainbridge Township, Ohio Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the inquiry.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Harrison County, WV man convicted of heroin trafficking, unlawful possession of firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Adam Bradford Linch, 35, of Anmoore, West Virginia, was convicted of heroin trafficking and unlawful possession of a firearm today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Linch sold heroin in August 2014 in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. The West Virginia State Police and the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
In a separate matter, Linch was discovered in unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. Linch was previously convicted of the misdemeanor offense of “Domestic Battery” in February 2010 in the Magistrate Court of Harrison County, West Virginia. As a result of that conviction, he is prohibited from possessing firearms. He was discovered in unlawful possession of a .45 caliber pistol and ammunition in March 2015 in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to “Possession of a Firearm by a Person Convicted of a Misdemeanor Crime of Domestic Violence.” He faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The Clarksburg, West Virginia Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
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 Cogar prosecuted the heroin trafficking offense and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins prosecuted the firearms offense on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided in both proceedings.
Detroit man sentenced for oxycodone traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Markus Deanthony Franklin, 22, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 51 months in prison for prescription painkiller trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Franklin, also known as “Diego,” sold oxycodone in Monongalia County, West Virginia in September 2014. He pled guilty in June 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Oxycodone.”
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.
Pleasants County man convicted of manufacturing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Donald William Butler, 56, of Saint Marys, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court today for his role in a methamphetamine manufacturing operation based in Pleasants County, West Virginia, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Butler, also known as “Amos,” was among six individuals charged in a 19-count federal indictment in June 2015. He was discovered in Pleasants County in possession of materials commonly utilized to manufacture methamphetamine. Those materials included lye drain opener, hydrogen peroxide, fuel additive, matches, and pseudoephedrine packages.
Butler pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of Material Used in the Manufacturing of Methamphetamine – Aiding and Abetting.” 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 West Virginia State Police and the Pleasants Count Sheriff’s Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Resilience in the face of adversity: West Virginia’s progress to loosen the grip of addictionRead the Press Release
West Virginia is in the path of a heroin and prescription painkiller-fueled storm that has wreaked havoc upon the state. Drug dealers are flooding our communities with deadly substances and earning handsome profits in the process. As a result, overdose deaths from heroin have skyrocketed while the number of deaths caused by prescription pills remains very high. Although the storm clouds are still lingering, efforts are underway to combat an epidemic that threatens our quality of life.
Painkiller abuse continues to be at the root of the problem. West Virginia is third in the nation in the number of painkiller prescriptions written by doctors – annually there are 138 prescriptions written for every 100 West Virginians for drugs like Oxycontin and Percocet. This is due in large part to improper prescribing practices.
Painkillers often serve as a gateway to heroin, which has become our most serious threat. Heroin is a cheap, readily available alternative to painkillers. Much of the heroin that we see in West Virginia comes from Mexico, where large amounts of the drug are produced each year. As long as the drug cartels in Mexico continue to profit from the sale of heroin in the United States, large quantities will continue to be produced there and transported here. Dealers sometimes mix fentanyl – a powerful painkiller - with heroin, creating what is often a lethal combination.
In addition to heroin, large quantities of methamphetamine from Mexico are making their way to West Virginia. Mexican-made meth appears to be filling the void created by a decline in the production of methamphetamine here at home.
Fortunately, multi-jurisdictional drug task forces in West Virginia are aggressively pursuing criminal organizations that operate from afar, in places like Chicago, Detroit, Columbus, Philadelphia, and Baltimore. The fact that the targets of our investigations are in distant cities requires us to coordinate with other agencies, to use sophisticated surveillance techniques, and to take a data-driven approach. Sometimes the targets are medical practitioners, pharmacies, or deviant wholesale distributors. Accordingly, supply-side intervention and prescriber education will be a critical part of our ongoing strategy.
In addition to enforcement, we are attacking the problem from other angles. We’ve partnered with talented people in the fields of prevention, treatment, community corrections, education, business, and the news media to create the United States Attorney’s Addiction Action Plan. While much has been accomplished already through this effort, a great deal of work remains. Whether it’s expanding access to effective treatment, enhancing the prevention curriculum in our schools, or getting Narcan into the hands of more first responders, we must act with a sense of urgency.
Although the drug epidemic in West Virginia is one of the biggest challenges that we face as a state, it is not insurmountable. By taking a comprehensive, community-based approach, we can effectively combat the problem. West Virginians will not run for cover in this storm but instead they will face it head-on and emerge stronger, safer, and healthier.
Morgantown, WV man convicted of cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Harvey Orlando Higgs, 29, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was convicted of cocaine trafficking in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Higgs sold cocaine in March 2015 in Monongalia County, West Virginia. He pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” 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 Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Aloi presided.
Martinsburg man convicted in Baltimore to West Virginia heroin trafficking networkRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Clinton Dunlap, 31, of Martinsburg, was convicted of heroin trafficking in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Dunlap was among 41 individuals charged in a 163-count heroin trafficking indictment in June 2015. The indictment disrupted a multi-state distribution network in which heroin was transported across state lines from Baltimore, Maryland into West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
Dunlap pled guilty to one count of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Heroin” for which he faces up to four years in prison. He also pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering” for which he faces up to five years in prison. He faces 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 Anna Krasinski and Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the inquiry.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Two Pennsylvania men sentenced for heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Qaaim Clark, 34, and Reginald Maurice Teasley, Jr., 38, both of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, were sentenced today in federal court for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Clark was sentenced today to 51 months in prison. An investigation by the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force revealed that Clark was involved in a drug distribution operation in which heroin and prescription painkillers were transported across state lines from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Morgantown, West Virginia for redistribution and sale. Specifically, Clark sold heroin in April 2014 in Monongalia County, West Virginia near West Virginia University. He pled guilty in June 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.”
Teasley was sentenced today to 46 months in prison after he was discovered in possession of heroin in October 2014 in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in May 2015 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” following an investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted Clark and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted Teasley on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Randolph County, WV man convicted for role in multi-state painkiller, marijuana trafficking networkRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Chad Allen Workman, 37, of Beverly, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court today for his role in an oxycodone and marijuana distribution operation, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Workman participated in an extensive and long-term multi-state drug trafficking operation. Workman, along with other individuals, conspired to transport large quantities of oxycodone and marijuana across state lines into West Virginia. The oxycodone was commonly transported from sources in Detroit, Florida and New Jersey. The marijuana was commonly obtained from sources in Pennsylvania and California. Workman further utilized the unlawful proceeds of the drug trafficking operation to purchase vehicles, real estate, and personal vacations.
Workman pled guilty today to one count of “Money Laundering.” As a result of the plea agreement executed today, he will be sentenced to nine years in prison and ordered to pay a fine of up to $500,000. Workman will also be required to pay a money judgment of at least $224,400 and forfeit his interest in a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force led the inquiry. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office also investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Two sentenced for oxycodone traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals were sentenced in federal court today for oxycodone trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Tyree Dupree Williams, 21, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 51 months in prison for selling oxycodone in September 2014 near the campus of West Virginia University in Monongalia County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in June 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Oxycodone within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
Paul Dennison, 34, of Wallace, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months in prison after he was discovered in possession of oxycodone and multiple firearms in January 2015 in Harrison County, West Virginia. In light of his previous felony conviction in Harrison County for “Delivery of a Controlled Substance – Marijuana,” he is prohibited from possessing firearms. He pled guilty in July 2015 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone – Aiding and Abetting” and one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” He was sentenced today to 37 months on each count. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 37 months in prison. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted Williams and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted Dennison on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Two convicted of heroin, cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals were convicted of heroin and cocaine trafficking this week in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Elliot Iwon Reed, 31, of Baltimore, Maryland, sold heroin and cocaine in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base and Heroin.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
Bruce Morton Vaudrien, Jr., 46, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, participated in a drug trafficking scheme in which heroin was transported across state lines from Baltimore, Maryland into West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. He pled guilty to:
• One count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000,
• One count of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Heroin” for which he faces up to four years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000, and
• One count of “Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering” for which he faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the inquiry. 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 Anna Krasinski and Paul Camilletti prosecuted Vaudrien and Camilletti, along with Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Taylor, prosecuted Reed on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Two convicted in Pittsburgh, PA to WV and OH heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph P. McKee, 25, of Wheeling, and Jeff R. Andlinger, 34, of Benwood, West Virginia were convicted of heroin trafficking this week in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
The defendants each participated in a drug distribution network in which heroin was transported across state lines from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to locations in West Virginia and Ohio for redistribution and sale. They were among six individuals charged in an 18-count federal indictment in June 2015.
Andlinger sold heroin in January 2015 near a public elementary school in Marshall County, West Virginia. He pled guilty 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 $2,000,000.
McKee conspired to possess and sell heroin in Marshall and Ohio Counties in West Virginia throughout 2014 and 2015. He pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin.” 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 defendants.
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. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Pennsylvania man convicted of heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Khalil Brown, 34, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was convicted of heroin trafficking in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Brown, also known as “Shadow,” was among 21 individuals charged in a 65-count federal indictment in November 2014. The indictment disrupted an extensive drug trafficking operation in which heroin and oxycodone were transported across state lines from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Morgantown, West Virginia for redistribution and sale throughout the region.
Brown sold heroin in 2014 near West Virginia University in Monongalia County, West Virginia. He pled guilty to “Distribution of Heroin within 1000 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 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. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Former Marshall County, WV teacher sentenced for possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Duane David Will, Jr., 33, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced to twelve months and one day in prison for possession of child pornography, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Will repeatedly downloaded images of child pornography in April 2014 while employed as a teacher at John Marshall High School in Marshall County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in June 2015 to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Sheriff’s Department and the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Hardy County, WV man convicted for role in manufacturing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Johnny Biggs, 36, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court today for his role in manufacturing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Biggs was discovered in May 2015 in Hardy County, West Virginia in possession of materials commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine. Those materials included a bottle, coffee filters, drain cleaner, batteries, cold medicine, and fuel.
Biggs pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of Material used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.” 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Aloi presided.
Berkeley County, WV man convicted of heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph Perry, 30, of Gerrardstown, West Virginia, was convicted of heroin trafficking in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Perry attempted to purchase heroin in March 2015 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He pled guilty to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Aiding and Abetting Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and 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. Attorneys Paul Camilletti and Anna Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Two convicted for role in Baltimore to West Virginia heroin trafficking networkRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals were convicted in federal court this week for their role in a multi-state heroin trafficking operation, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
The defendants convicted this week participated in a drug trafficking scheme in which heroin was transported across state lines from Baltimore, Maryland into West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. The operation was disrupted in June 2015 by a 163-count federal indictment encompassing 41 defendants.
Josh Reid, 32, of Martinsburg, was discovered in possession of heroin in Berkeley County, West Virginia in February 2015. He pled guilty to “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
Cortney Blair Saylor, 29, of Martinsburg, helped to facilitate the sale of heroin in February 2015. She pled guilty to one count of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Heroin” for which she faces up to four years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. She also pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering” for which she faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the inquiry.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Martinsburg man convicted of cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jesus Demas Valencia, 48, of Martinsburg, was convicted of cocaine trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Valencia sold cocaine in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and 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. Attorneys Ana Krasinski, Jarod Douglas, and Paul Camilletti 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 Robert W. Trumble presided.
USP Hazelton inmate guilty of assaulting fellow prisonerRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict today convicting Deonte Spicer, 28, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary Hazelton, of assaulting a fellow prisoner, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Following a two day trial, 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.
Spicer 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 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.
Brooke County, WV man charged with unlawful possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Frank Boatrite, 42, of Follansbee, West Virginia, with unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Boatrite was previously convicted of the felony offenses of “Burglary” in the Court of Common Pleas of Clermont County, Ohio, and “Possession of Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell” in the District Court of Clark County, Nevada. As a result of these convictions, he is prohibited form possessing a firearm. He was discovered in April 2015 in possession of a .25 caliber pistol and a .22 caliber revolver.
Boatrite is charged with one count of “Prohibited Person 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 Stephen Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Hancock, Brooke, Weirton Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Wheeling man convicted of unlawfully possessing firearmRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – David L. Smith, 40, of Wheeling, was convicted today of being in unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Smith was previously convicted the felony offenses of “Unlawful Assault” and “Grand Larceny” in the Circuit Court of Marshall County, West Virginia. As a result of these convictions, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He was discovered in Ohio County, West Virginia in February 2015 in possession of a .45 caliber pistol.
Smith pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging him with 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 on 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 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.
Two former labor union officials charged with embezzlementRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments today charging two former labor union officials with embezzlement, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Former President of the United Steelworkers Local Union 05-887, James Coffey, Jr., 54, of Bergholz, Ohio, allegedly utilized a business debit card to pay for personal expenses and wrote unauthorized checks to himself from a business bank account. He is charged with two counts of “Embezzlement from a Labor Union.” He faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 on each of the two counts. The United States Department of Labor Office of Labor Management Standards is investigating.
Former Business Manager of the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local Union 83, Jeffrey Beresford, 55, of Cameron, West Virginia, allegedly used his position as a trustee of the Wheeling Joint Apprenticeship program to write unauthorized checks to himself from the program’s bank account. He is charged with two counts of “Embezzlement from an Employee Benefit Plan.” He faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each of the two counts. The United States Department of Labor Office of Inspector General is investigating.
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 David Perri is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New York man charged with credit card fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging Charles Manu, 23, of Bronx, New York, with credit card fraud, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Manu was discovered in June 2015 in possession of multiple credit cards and gift cards that had been unlawfully recoded or reprogrammed with new account information. He is charged with one count of “Possession of Unauthorized Access Device.” 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 is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the United States Secret Service are investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.