Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Wheeling man convicted of selling crack cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – William “B.J.” Farmer, 39, of Wheeling, was convicted in federal court today of distributing crack cocaine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
An investigation by the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Farmer sold crack cocaine in Ohio County, West Virginia in June 2014.
Farmer pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” As a result of the guilty plea entered today, Mr. Farmer faces up to 20 months in prison.
In addition, Farmer admitted today that he had violated the conditions of a previously imposed period of supervised release. He was sentenced today to an additional 18 months in prison for the supervised release violation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Fairmont, WV man convicted of stealing government moneyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Former United States Forest Service employee Kwaku A. Akomah, 41, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was convicted today in federal court of stealing government money, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
A Forest Service investigation revealed that Akomah made repeated unauthorized purchases using government funds. He made a variety of unauthorized personal purchases, including the use of a government issued fuel card to procure more than $1,000.00 in gasoline for his personal vehicle.
Akomah pled guilty today to one count of “Theft of Government Money.” He faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Ohio man charged with traveling to have sex with minorRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment alleging that Patrick W. Ganim, 29, of, Chagrin Falls, Ohio, traveled across state lines to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor female, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Ganim is alleged to have used various online messaging services to communicate with a minor female residing in the Northern District of West Virginia. In October 2014, Ganim allegedly traveled across state lines from Ohio to West Virginia and engaged in illicit sexual conduct with the victim. Following their initial meeting, Ganim allegedly continued to utilize online messaging services to communicate with the minor victim, planning a subsequent meeting and sending explicit material to the victim.
Ganim is charged with:
• One count of “Travel to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct,” for which he faces up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
• One count of “Using Means of Interstate Commerce to Attempt to Entice Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity,” for which he faces between 10 years and life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
• One count of “Transfer of Obscene Materials to a Minor,” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Montoro is prosecuting 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 are leading the investigation.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Morgantown woman convicted of stealing government moneyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA Samantha Christopher, 35, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court today of misappropriating government money, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General revealed that throughout late 2013 and 2014, Christopher embezzled nearly $12,500.00 in money order funds while employed as a Postal Contract Station Clerk.
Christopher pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging her with one count of “Embezzlement, Theft & Conversion of Government Monies.” She faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. 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 Morgan is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Ohio man convicted of possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Alex J. Galensky, 32, of, Martins Ferry, Ohio, was convicted today in federal court of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
During an investigation by the West Virginia State Police, Galensky was discovered in May 2014 in possession of child pornography involving a minor under the age of 12.
Galensky pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Ohio man sentenced to more than three years for painkiller traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ronald Gene Vance, 63, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced today to 37 months in prison for oxycodone trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Vance repeatedly traveled to Baltimore, Maryland to purchase prescription pills for redistribution and sale in the Ohio County, West Virginia area.
Vance pled guilty in April 2014 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule I and Schedule II Controlled Substances.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Community leaders collaborate to tackle drug abuse in North Central West VirginiaRead the Press Release
MORGANTOWN, WEST VIRGINIA – Community leaders in Monongalia, Marion, and Harrison Counties announced the formation of a working group to address drug addiction and overdoses in the region.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, made the announcement along with officials from a variety of professions, including education, law enforcement, healthcare, treatment, and the news media. Ihlenfeld will serve as co-chair of the group, which will present an addiction action plan to the community in the spring.
“Addiction has grabbed ahold of communities in North Central West Virginia and we’re committed to pursuing innovative and tangible ways to loosen that grip,” stated Ihlenfeld. “The number of heroin overdose deaths in West Virginia continues to rise and this has become more than just a law enforcement problem – it’s a true public health crisis.”
The working group is part of the United States Attorney’s Addiction Action Plan, a program designed to target drug abuse by capitalizing on synergies created by bringing together leaders from fields relevant to the issue. The goals of the group include decreasing heroin use, promoting increased access to quality substance abuse treatment, choking off the supply of heroin to the region, and making North Central West Virginia stronger, safer, and healthier.
The subcommittees that comprise the Addiction Action Plan will be led by a diverse group of leaders from North Central West Virginia, including:
• Dr. Carl “Rolly” Sullivan, MD • Director, Addictions Program, WVU School of Medicine
• Dr. James Berry, MD • Director, Inpatient Addiction Services, WVU Health Sciences Center
• Dr. Patrick Ryan • Director of Behavioral Medicine, Fairmont General Hospital
• Dr. Frank Devono • Superintendent, Monongalia County Schools
• Aaron Williams • News Director, WBOY-TV
• John Miller • Executive Editor, The Clarksburg Exponent Telegram
• Barbara Evans Fleischauer • Representative, W.Va. House of Delegates
• Edward Preston • Chief, Morgantown Police Department
• Kelley Moran • Chief, Fairmont Police Department
• Louis Ortenzio • Senior Ministry Leader, Celebrate Recovery
• Jo Anne McNemar • Harrison County Prevention Partnership
• Ted Offutt • Marion County Day Report Center Director
“Public comments at the recent town hall meeting at Bridgeport High School in Harrison County made it very clear that now is the time for swift action,” said Ihlenfeld. “I’m confident that the working group that we’ve formed will develop an inventive and comprehensive approach to combat addiction in the region.”Individuals interested in obtaining additional information on the Addiction Action Plan are encouraged to contact the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia at (304) 234-0100. Regular updates on the progress of the Addiction Action Plan will be available via the official Twitter feed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, @NDWVnews.
Harrison County, WV man guilty of unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Following a three day trial, a jury found convicted felon Joseph Garrett, 50, of Haywood, West Virginia, guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Garrett was previously convicted of multiple offenses in the Circuit Court of Marion County, West Virginia, including “Breaking and Entering” in 1983, “Sexual Assault in the Third Degree” in 1988, and “Second Degree Murder” in 1998. As a result of these convictions, Garrett is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Evidence presented at trial revealed that in May 2014, Garrett was in unlawful possession of a 12 gauge shotgun in Harrison County, West Virginia.
The jury found Garrett guilty of one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearm,” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. The jury also found Garrett guilty of one count of “Possession of a NFA Firearm Not Registered to a Person in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record,” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.00. 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 Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Harrison County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the investigation.U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Wheeling man charged with cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returnedindictments today charging Cornelius Johnson, Jr., 38, of Wheeling, with cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Johnson is alleged to have repeatedly sold crack cocaine near Wilson Playground in Wheeling throughout October and November 2014. Following an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, HIDTA-funded initiative, Johnson is charged with:
• Four counts of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Cocaine Base.” He faces up to four years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00 on each count.
• Four counts 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 $2,000,000.00 on each count.
• One count of “Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
• One count of “Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Two sex offenders charged with failing to update registrationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments today charging two convicted sex offenders with failing to properly update their registration, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Ronald Kisner, II, 29, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, was convicted in November 2011 of “Abusive Sexual Assault” in the Northern District of West Virginia. Kisner is alleged to have moved from West Virginia to Frederick County, Virginia without updating his sex offender registration. He is charged with one count of “Failure to Register,” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
Robert Bruno Davis, 31, was convicted in 2002 of “Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor” in Ohio. Davis moved to Wheeling, West Virginia in September 2014 to live with Angela S. Goolie, 36. He allegedly failed to update his Ohio registration or to register in West Virginia. Davis is further alleged to have repeatedly discouraged potential witnesses from cooperating with authorities and providing information on his true living arrangements. In December 2014, Goolie expressly told authorities that Davis had not been living with her in Wheeling.
Davis is charged with one count of “Failure to Register and Update Registration as a Sex Offender,” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. He is further charged with two counts of “Attempted Tampering with a Witness.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00 on each count. Goolie is charged with one count of “False Statement to Law Enforcement,” for which she faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Perri is prosecuting Davis and Goolie and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Camilletti and Anna Krasinski are prosecuting Kisner on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated both cases.
Two Wheeling area men indicted on child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments today alleging that two Wheeling area men, including a local high school teacher, were discovered in possession of child pornography, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Duane David Will, Jr., 33, of Moundsville, West Virginia, is alleged to have repeatedly downloaded images of child pornography in April 2014 while employed as a teacher at John Marshall High School in Marshall County, West Virginia. Will is charged with one count of “Possession of Child Pornography” following an investigation by the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department and the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. He faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
An investigation by the Wheeling, West Virginia Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation revealed that Bernie George Baier, 51, of Wheeling, obtained a wireless Internet password from his neighbor. Baier is alleged to have repeatedly used the neighbor’s wireless Internet connection to download images of child pornography throughout late 2014. Baier was previously convicted in September 1995 of the felony offense of “Gross Sexual Imposition” in the Court of Common Pleas of Belmont County, Ohio. Baier is charged with one count of “Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography,” for which he faces between 15 and 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. He is further charged with one count of “Possession of Child Pornography,” for which he faces between 10 and 20 years in prison and fine of up to $250,000.00.
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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
Three charged with unlawful possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments today charging three convicted felons with unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Michael Northcraft, 41, of Weirton, West Virginia, was previously convicted in the Circuit Court of Hancock County, West Virginia of the felony offense of “Entering a Building Other than a Dwelling.“ As a result of that conviction, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm. Northcraft is alleged to have been in possession of multiple firearms in December 2014, including three pistols, one revolver, two shotguns, and two rifles. He is charged with one count of “Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm” following an investigation by the Brooke County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. He faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
Timothy William Cook, 30, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was previously convicted in the Northern District of West Virginia of the felony offense of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Cook is alleged to have been in possession of both a pistol and a quantity of heroin in May 2014 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. Cook is charged with one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearms,” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. He is further charged with 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 $250,000.00.
William Gene George, Jr., 43, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was previously convicted in the Circuit Court of Berkeley County, West Virginian of “Felony Child Neglect” in June 2007. George is alleged to have been in possession of a stolen rifle. He is charged with one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” He faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00 on each count.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated Cook and George.
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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin is prosecuting Northcraft and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Camilletti and Anna Krasinski are prosecuting Cook and George on behalf of the government.
Two Martinsburg women charged with fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging two Martinsburg, West Virginia women with fraud, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General revealed that Aida Aliu Bell, 38, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, unlawfully collected Social Security Benefits in the amount of $10,632.00 on behalf of her minor daughters. Initially, Bell was properly designated to receive the benefits of behalf of her daughters. In September 2011, custody of Bell’s minor daughters was transferred to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources. Bell allegedly failed to report the change in custody and continued to improperly collect Social Security benefits through approximately August 2013. Bell is charged with one count of “Social Security Fraud,” for which she faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. She is further charged with one count of “Purloining Government Money,” for which she faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
During the course of litigation with her mortgage broker, Amanda Bishop, 35, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, is alleged to have created and submitted to the court fake bank statements purporting to show that she had made mortgage payments in the amount of $1,848.00 on Nov. 17, 2010 and Dec. 15, 2010. Bishop is charged with two counts of “False Declaration Before Court” following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. She faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00 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 defendants.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Stein is prosecuting Bell and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Camilletti and Anna Krasinski are prosecuting Bishop on behalf of the government.
Pennsylvania man charged with traveling to have sex with minorRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today alleging that Uniontown, Pennsylvania teacher Daniel S. McGarvey, 44, traveled to West Virginia with the intent to engage in sexual conduct with a minor, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
McGarvey travelled to Bridgeport, West Virginia in October 2014 for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct with a minor female who he believed to be 15 years old. McGarvey had utilized the Internet and text messaging to arrange for the sexual encounter.
McGarvey is charged with one count of “Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct” following an investigation by the Bridgeport Police Department and the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. He faces up to 30 years in prison and fine of up to $250,000.00. 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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Former Bridgeport, WV mayor sentenced to 3 years for prescription painkiller traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Licensed pharmacist and former mayor of Bridgeport, West Virginia, Mario Blount, 52, was sentenced today to 36 months in prison for unlawfully distributing prescription painkillers, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Blount repeatedly distributed prescription painkillers, including oxycodone and oxymorphone, outside the scope of professional practice and for no legitimate medical purpose. In June 2013, he failed to report filling a prescription for 150 oxymorphone pills. In September 2013, he distributed oxymorphone pills without a physician’s prescription.
Blount pled guilty in September 2014 to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Schedule II Controlled Substances,” one count of “False or Fraudulent Material Omission,” and one count of “Distribution of Oxymorphone.”
As part of the sentenced issued today, Blount will also be required to forfeit his interest in $15,000.00 in U.S. currency.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr and U.S. Attorney William Ihlenfeld prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Florida man, two others, sentenced for drug traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Stephen Rokisky, 37, of Tampa, Florida, along with two additional individuals, was sentenced in federal court today on drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Rokisky was sentenced today to 27 months in prison for distributing hydrocodone in Marion County, West Virginia throughout 2013. He pled guilty in March 2013 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Hydrocodone.”
Amber McCormick, 29, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day in prison for selling oxycodone near the Harrison Street Playground in Clarksburg in April 2013. She pled guilty in October 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone Within 1000’ of a Protected Location.”
The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated Rokisky and McCormick.
David Jensen, 37, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer, was sentenced to an additional six months in prison today for unlawful possession of heroin. He was discovered in possession of heroin within FCI Gilmer in October 2014. He pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object – Heroin.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr prosecuted Rokisky and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted McCormick and Jensen on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Wheeling, WV woman sentenced for selling cocaineRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Krista Dennis, 28, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 11 months in prison for selling crack cocaine near a protected location, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II announced.
An investigation by the Benwood, West Virginia Police Department, the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force revealed that Dennis sold crack cocaine in July 2014 within 1,000 feet of a protected location. Both task forces are HIDTA-funded initiatives.
Dennis pled guilty in December 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base Near a Protected Location.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McWilliams is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Two sentenced for selling heroin, other drugsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals were sentenced in federal court in Martinsburg today on drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Christopher Michael Walls, 30, of Clarksburg, was sentenced today to 120 months in prison for selling oxycodone in Harrison County in January 2014. He pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone – Aiding and Abetting” following an investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
Joshua Rollyson, 31, of Sutton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months in prison for selling heroin in Braxton County in November 2013. He pled guilty in October 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin” following an investigation by the West Virginia State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted Rollyson and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted Walls on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Five sentenced for selling heroin, other drugsRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Five individuals were sentenced in federal court in Martinsburg today on drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Tavon Darrell Moore, 31, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced today to 96 months in prison for conspiring to sell heroin in Berkeley, Jefferson, Grant, and Hardy Counties between 2008 and 2014. He pled guilty in November 2014 to one count of “Drug Conspiracy – Heroin.”
Armistead William Craig, 35, of Ranson, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months in prison for selling crack cocaine in Jefferson County in June 2014. He pled guilty in November 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Eddie Young, III, 40, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 33 months in prison for utilizing telephone to arrange the sale of crack cocaine. Young pled guilty in October 2014 to one count of “Use of Telephone to Facilitate Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Kimberly Michelle Bailey, 32, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 13 months in prison for selling heroin in Grant County in January 2014. She pled guilty in October 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.”
Pamela Jean Bailey, 30, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years of probation for selling methamphetamine in Grant County in January 2014. She pled guilty in November 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Morgantown man convicted of cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Andre J. Anderson, 34, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court today of cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the Mon Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force revealed that Anderson sold nearly 500 grams of cocaine in Morgantown, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00. 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 John Parr is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Ohio and Pennsylvania men sentenced for cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jermell Simpson, 31, of Columbus, Ohio, and Mario Walton, 33, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, were sentenced today for distributing crack cocaine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Walton was sentenced today to 30 months in prison with credit for time served since July 2014. An investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that he sold crack cocaine in July 2014 near Bridgeport, West Virginia. He pled guilty in October 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base, Aiding and Abetting.”
Simpson was sentenced today to 46 months in prison. An investigation by the Mon Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force revealed that he sold crack cocaine in Monongalia County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in September 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Leader of painkiller distribution network sentenced to more than 8 years in prisonRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Brian Schultz, 38, of Triadelphia, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 97 months in prison for coordinating and operating a Detroit, Michigan to Wheeling, West Virginia prescription painkiller and cocaine distribution ring, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, discovered that Schultz procured large quantities of prescription pills from groups in Detroit, Michigan and Northern Ohio. He then orchestrated an extensive network of associates to redistribute the pills throughout the Ohio Valley.
Schultz admitted his role in distributing oxycodone, cocaine, and buprenorphine in November 2014 when he pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II and Schedule III Controlled Substances.” He was also ordered today to forfeit approximately $70,000.00 in U.S. currency and to pay a money judgment of $30,000.00.
Additionally, Buddy Robert Salem, Jr., 33, of Wheeling, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison. Salem routinely sold oxycodone pills provided by Schultz. Salem was discovered in possession of oxycodone in January 2014. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force recaps successful 2014Read the Press Release
BRIDGEPORT, WEST VIRGINIA – The leaders of the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force announced the results of their collaborative efforts in 2014 and discussed what they hope to accomplish in 2015, including increased collaboration among law enforcement at all levels.
“Drug addiction has become an epidemic nationwide and is affecting the quality of life in our communities every day. We are extremely fortunate to have pro-active law enforcement officers who understand the problems and dangers that drugs bring to our communities,” noted Bridgeport Police Chief John P. Walker. “It is important for the residents of our communities to know that together we can make a difference and we value their input. The officers serving on the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force are to be commended for the excellent work and success they accomplished in 2014. I am looking forward to their continuing success in the future.”
Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force investigations led to 41 arrests in 2014 for a variety of offenses, including prescription pill trafficking (16), heroin (10), methamphetamine (5), bath salts (4), crack cocaine (3) marijuana (2), and fraudulent prescriptions (1).
As a result of Task Force investigations, 36 individuals were sentenced to nearly 130 years in prison in 2014. Noteworthy prosecutions in 2014 included:
• Justin Zachary Rosa, 20, and Nichole Nikki Pierce, 22, both of Clarksburg, West Virginia, were sentenced in March 2014 for heroin trafficking. Rosa was sentenced to 125 months in prison. Pierce was sentenced to 71 months in prison. They were each also ordered to forfeit their interest in $4,822.46 in U.S. currency.
• William Murphy, 25, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for utilizing a firearm in furtherance of oxycodone trafficking.
• Casey Searcy, 33, of Salem, West Virginia, was sentenced to 110 months in prison for selling oxycodone near the Clarksburg City Park - North View.
• Leroy Douglas Rousseau, 26, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced to 84 months in prison for selling crack cocaine near the Pierpont Community & Technical College in Fairmont, West Virginia.
• Matthew Vanhorn, 28, and Megan Counts, 24 both of Stonewood, West Virginia, were convicted of selling heroin near the Stonewood City Park. Vanhorn was sentenced to 63 months in prison. Counts was sentenced to 46 months in prison.
• Amanda Lilly Daniels, 26, of Detroit, Michigan, and Jaunita Farnsworth, 31, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, were sentenced in November 2014 for their role in transporting prescription painkillers from Detroit, Michigan to Clarksburg, West Virginia for redistribution and sale. Daniels was sentenced to 41 months in prison. Farnsworth was sentenced to 37 months in prison. They were each also ordered to forfeit their interest in two firearms, nine rounds of ammunition, and $5,947.00 in U.S. currency.
• Dr. Edita Milan was convicted in December 2014 of operating a painkiller distribution ring from her Bridgeport, West Virginia medical practice. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 2015.
• Pharmacist Mario Blount, 51, of Bridgeport, West Virginia was convicted of prescription painkiller trafficking. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 2015.
• A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Reginald Maurice Teasley, Jr., 38, of Philadelphia, PA with heroin trafficking. He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00."Area law enforcement and the Task Force have a responsibility to keep the community safe. This is our community, too,” said Clarksburg Police Chief Robert L. Hilliard. “We take it personal when illegal activity threatens the safety and well-being of the citizens in this area. The cooperative effort of coming together and working together to rid our community of illegal drugs has proven successful over and over again".
The Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force is comprised of representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the West Virginia State Police, the United States Marshals Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service-CI, the Clarksburg Police Department, and the Bridgeport Police Department.
Individuals with information on drug activity in the region are encouraged to call the Task Force hotline at 304-709-3784 or send an email message to [email protected]. Regular updates on the work of the Task Force are available at harrisondrugtaskforce.com and via the official Twitter feed of the United States Attorney’s Office, @NDWVnews.
Burlington, WV sex offender convicted of failure to update registrationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Donald W. Patterson, 41, of Burlington, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court today of failing to update his sex offender registration when he moved from West Virginia to Maryland, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.In 1993, Patterson was convicted of “Statutory Rape” in Tennessee. As a result of that conviction, Patterson is required to register as a sex offender. An investigation by the United States Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police revealed that in the fall of 2013, Patterson moved across state lines to Maryland without updating his sex offender registration status.
He pled guilty today to one count of “Failure to Register and Update Registration as a Sex Offender – SORNA.” He faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
WV man sentenced to two years for heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tony Calvin Collins, 20, of Maysville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Collins was discovered in possession of heroin in January 2014 in Moorefield, West Virginia during an Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigation. The Task Force is a HIDTA-funded initiative. Collins pled guilty in November 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Two Detroit men convicted of oxycodone traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cary Dailey, 25, and Lance Demarco Harris, 21, both of Detroit, Michigan, were convicted in federal court today for prescription painkiller trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the Mon Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force revealed that Dailey and Harris were involved in the distribution of oxycodone in Monongalia County, West Virginia during the fall of 2014. Dailey was discovered in possession of oxycodone in September 2014. He pled guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.” Harris sold oxycodone in September 2014. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.”
Both defendants face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00. 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Two convicted of tax fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two West Virginia residents were convicted of tax fraud today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Connie Sue Cole, 71, of Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, ran a tax preparation service from her home. Cole repeatedly falsified tax returns by either understating the true income earned by her clients or inflating and overstating the expenses incurred by her clients to fabricate deductions. She admitted today to falsifying a specific tax return in March 2013. The client was entitled to claim business expenses in the amount of $3,682.00. Cole filed a tax return on behalf of the client fraudulently claiming nearly $36,000.00 in business expenses. Cole pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging her with one count of “Aiding and Assisting the Preparation of Fraudulent Tax Returns.” She faces up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
Morgantown, West Virginia businessman Michael A. Vecchio, Jr., 53, of Morgantown, West Virginia, admitted today that he repeatedly misappropriated profits from his various businesses. He diverted corporate income into his personal bank accounts, used business income to pay his personal credit card debt, and used his business credit card for personal living expenses. He failed to declare any of these payments as corporate or personal income. Vecchio pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Attempts to Interfere with the Administration of the Internal Revenue Laws.” He faces up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
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.
“Those that don’t comply with the federal tax laws, are in reality stealing from honest tax paying Americans who comply with their tax obligations,” said Guy Ficco, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Washington, D.C. Field Office. “We should not forget that we are the ultimate victims of tax fraud.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar is prosecuting Cole and Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McWilliams is prosecuting Vecchio on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation is leading the investigations.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Two Wheeling men sentenced for cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jackie Byrd, 25, and Marisol Rodriguez, 34, both of Wheeling, were sentenced today for cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Byrd and Rodriguez sold crack cocaine in the Northern District of West Virginia throughout 2014. Additionally, Byrd stabbed a confidential informant in July 2014.
Byrd and Rodriguez each pled guilty in November 2014 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent and to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Byrd further pled guilty to one count of “Retaliation Against a Cooperating Witness.” Byrd was sentenced today to 46 months in prison on each count. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 46 months in prison. Rodriguez was sentenced to 6 months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Clarksburg woman convicted of selling heroin near local playgroundRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Alicia Radel, 31, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court today for selling heroin near a local playground, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Radel sold heroin in September 2014 near the Clarksburg City Park – North Side Playground.
Radel pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” She faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00. 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 Morgan is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Wheeling man sentenced for oxycodone, cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Lucas N. High, 37, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced in federal today for his role in a prescription painkiller distribution operation based in the Ohio Valley, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that High utilized phone calls and text messages to facilitate the distribution of oxycodone and cocaine as part of a painkiller distribution network led by Brian Schultz, 38, of Triadelphia, West Virginia.
High pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Conspiracy to Use a Telephone System to Facilitate the Distribution of Controlled Substances.” He was sentenced today to three years of probation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Two convicted of drug traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two West Virginia residents were convicted in federal court today on drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Ellan Miller, 54, of Fairmont, WV pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of Pseudoephedrine to be used in the Manufacturing of Methamphetamine.” During a Three Rivers Drug Task Force investigation, Miller was discovered in possession of pseudoephedrine in Marion County, West Virginia in September 2014. She faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
Caraun Lynn-Montez Key, 23, pled guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.” During a Mon Valley Drug Task Force investigation, Key was discovered in possession of a significant quantity of oxycodone in Monongalia County, West Virginia in September 2014. He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
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 Shawn Morgan prosecuted Miller and Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted Key on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Georgia man convicted of oxycodone traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Terence D. Brawner, a 32-year-old Georgia native, was convicted in federal court of prescription painkiller trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
An investigation by the West Virginia State Police and the Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Brawner collaborated with other individuals to distribute oxycodone in Wetzel County, West Virginia.
Brawner pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Oxycodone.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00. 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 is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Former elementary school guidance counselor sentenced for painkiller distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kristyn Elizabeth Fetcko, 34, of Wheeling, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for selling oxycodone while employed as a guidance counselor at Ritchie Elementary School, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
An investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Fetcko sold oxycodone from her Wheeling home as part of a painkiller distribution network led by Brian Schultz, 38, of Triadelphia, West Virginia. Most recently, Fetcko was discovered in possession of oxycodone in January 2014.
As part of her sentence, Fetcko was also ordered to forfeit her interest in nearly $3,905.00 in U.S. currency. She pled guilty in September 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Fairmont, WV man convicted for role in manufacturing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Coy Wollard, 29, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court for his role in manufacturing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
During a Three Rivers Drug Task Force investigation, Wollard was discovered in September 2014 in possession of medication pseudoephedrine, a common ingredient in methamphetamine.
Wollard pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Pseudoephedrine to be used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. 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 Morgan is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Mountain Region Drug Task Force reflects on successful 2014, looks forward to 2015Read the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – The leaders of the Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force announced the results of their collaborative efforts in 2014 and discussed what they hope to accomplish in 2015, including forming a stronger partnership with the public.
According to its board members, Mountain Region Drug Task Force investigations led to a total of 47 individuals being prosecuted in federal court last year. The prosecutions were for a variety of offenses, including methamphetamine distribution (23), prescription pills (17), marijuana (4), cocaine (2), and unlawful possession of firearms (1). Noteworthy prosecutions in 2014 included:
- Michael Wayne Johnson, of Elkins, West Virginia, who was sentenced to 120 months in prison for methamphetamine trafficking in Randolph County.
- John A. Boyles, of Kerens, West Virginia, was sentenced to 97 months in prison for crack cocaine distribution in Tucker County. His wife, Arica Boyles, was also convicted of cocaine distribution. She faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000 when she is sentenced.
- Elizabeth Allison Sweatt, of Nice, California, was convicted of marijuana trafficking after authorities discovered that she was shipping marijuana from California to Randolph County, West Virginia for redistribution and sale. She was sentenced to five years of probation and ordered to forfeit $15,402.98 in U.S. currency and to pay a money judgment in the amount of $60,000.00.
- Arnold Lee Mayle, of Canton Ohio, and Dorothy Ellen Metz, of Athens, Georgia, were both convicted of selling prescription painkillers. Metz was sentenced to twelve months and one day in prison.
- Shawn David White and Christina Lee Kimble, both of Bartow, West Virginia, were convicted for methamphetamine trafficking in Pocahontas, Randolph, and Harrison counties. White faces up to 10 years in prison and Kimble faces up to 20 years in prison. They each face a fine of up to $250,000.00.
- Matthew L. Cordero, of Vineland, New Jersey, Jonathan Paul Calain, of Elkins, West Virginia, and two additional West Virginia residents, were charged with oxycodone trafficking in a 17-count superseding indictment. In addition to prison sentences, the Defendants face a money judgment of nearly $400,000.00.
In 2014, Defendants investigated by the Task Force were required to forfeit more than $31,000 in U.S. currency, two residences used to distribute controlled substances, two motor vehicles, multiple firearms, and money judgments in excess of $400,000.
“The Mountain Region Drug Task Force had an extremely successful 2014,” commented United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II. “Enhanced cooperation among law enforcement agencies has proven to be effective, and the Task Force has made it increasingly difficult for drug suppliers from different states to conduct business in North Central West Virginia. In the past year, we have successfully identified and prosecuted drug suppliers from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Georgia, New Jersey, Michigan, Florida and California. We hope that the public will join the fight in 2015 by supplying information to our hotline.”
The Task Force was formed in the fall of 2013 and is comprised of representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Forest Service, the West Virginia State Police, the Tucker County Sheriff and Prosecuting Attorney’s Offices, the Randolph County Sheriff and Prosecuting Attorney’s Offices, and the Pocahontas County Prosecuting Attorney’s Offices. Task Force investigations are also supported by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Task force board members are pleased with the results produced by the unit.
“I believe that the Mountain Region Drug Task Force has been very effective in promoting the sharing of information and utilizing investigative resources for the benefit of all member agencies and jurisdictions,” reflected Randolph County Prosecuting Attorney Michael Parker. “The task force continues to do vital work to combat drug and violent crimes in Randolph, Tucker, and Pocahontas counties and has the full support of the Randolph County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.”
“The Mountain Region Drug Task Force has brought greater cooperation between all levels of law enforcement,” stated Tucker County Prosecuting Attorney Raymond LaMora, III. “Even though we have not seen an uptick in state prosecutions, the information developed in many Tucker County investigations has led to federal indictments and prosecutions in surrounding counties. Each arrest, and each prosecution in our region, is a benefit to our county as the flow of narcotics begins to trickle less and less into the homes of our communities.”
Individuals with information on drug activity in the region are encouraged to call the Task Force hotline at 304-636-TIPS. Regular updates on the work of the Task Force are available at mountainregiondtf.com and via the official Twitter feed of the United States Attorney’s Office, @NDWVnews.
Convicted felon pleads guilty to unlawful possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Zachary M. Foster, 22, of Triadelphia, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court today for unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.Foster was convicted in 2011 of the felony offense of “Attempted Burglary” in the Circuit Court of Ohio County, West Virginia. As a result of that conviction, Foster was prohibited from possessing a firearm. In August 2014, officers from the Wheeling Police Department responded to reports of a gunshot fired and discovered Foster in possession of a .38 caliber revolver and a .22 caliber revolver.
Foster pled guilty today to one count of “Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm.” He faces up to 10 years in prison and fine of up to $250,000.00. 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted in the investigation.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Mexican national sentenced to two years for illegal reentryRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Mexican national Rogelio Portillo Vasquez, 38, was sentenced to 24 months in prison today for illegal reentry into the country, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Portillo Vasquez was previously deported to Mexico in May 2012. In September 2014, authorities discovered that he was in Jefferson County, West Virginia without permission. He pled guilty in December 2014 one count of “Re-entry by a Removed Alien.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
McMechen roofing contractor convicted of fraudRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Roofing and general contractor Stephen J. Gretchen, 44, of McMechen, West Virginia, was convicted today of failing to report cash payments to his employees and fraudulently collecting insurance benefits for staged damage to his vehicle, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Gretchen admitted today that he knowingly underreported the wages, tips, and other compensation that he paid to his employees. He paid certain employees in cash “off the books.” He filed quarterly tax returns which failed to report these cash payments and failed to withhold certain tax amounts on behalf of his employees. In the second quarter of 2011, Gretchen reported that he paid no wages, tips, or other compensation to his employees. In fact, he had paid approximately $22,880.00 to his employees.
Gretchen owned a 2011 Coachman Freedom Express camping trailer. He admitted today that he paid one of his employees to deliberately and repeatedly crash a dump truck into the trailer, causing damage that totally destroyed the camping trailer for insurance purposes. Gretchen filed a claim with his insurance company, but falsely reported that the damage was caused by a hit-and-run accident. The insurance company sent Gretchen a check for $27,776.85 via FedEx in June 2012.
Gretchen pled guilty today to:
- One count of “Filing a False Form 941, Employees’ Quarterly Federal Tax Return” for which he faces up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00, and
- One count of “Mail Fraud” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
“Employers, such as Gretchen, that do not pay employment taxes to the government are not only stealing from the American taxpayers, but could be impacting the future benefits their employees are entitled to for their hard work” stated Thomas J. Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Washington, D.C. Field Office. “Honest, hardworking citizens should be assured that business owners who are not paying their fair share of taxes will be prosecuted.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McWilliams is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner, Fraud Investigation Unit are investigating.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Wheeling man sentenced in painkiller distribution networkRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWheeling man sentenced in painkiller distribution network
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Derick Namack, 39, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for selling oxycodone in a painkiller distribution network based in the Ohio Valley, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed Namack’s involvement in a painkiller distribution network led by 38-year-old Triadelphia, West Virginia resident Brian Schultz. Namack pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Eight sentenced for trafficking heroin, other drugsRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistEight sentenced for trafficking heroin, other drugs
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eight individuals were sentenced in federal court today for distributing heroin and other drugs, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, and Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed a drug distribution network in which heroin transported from Baltimore, Maryland and oxycodone were sold within the Northern District of West Virginia. Six individuals were sentenced for their role in the drug trafficking operation, including:
• Stephanie Lee Butts, 38, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 115 months in prison after she was discovered in possession of heroin in January 2014. She pled guilty in September 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.”
• Christian Nicole Pierce, 22, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for her role in selling heroin as part of the larger distribution network. She pled guilty in September 2014 to one count of “Drug Conspiracy – Heroin.”
• Brenda Michelle Sams, 35, of Brandywine, Maryland was sentenced to 21 months in prison for her role in selling heroin as part of the larger distribution network. She pled guilty in October 2014 to one count of “Drug Conspiracy – Heroin.”
• Brandy Netz, 30, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 10 months in prison for selling heroin in April 2014. She pled guilty in October 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.”
• Crystalin Nicole Holliday, 24, of Martinsburg, West Virginia was sentenced to three years of probation months in prison for selling heroin in April 2014. She pled guilty in September 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.”
• Thomas Richard Greenfield, Jr., 58, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to three years of probation for selling oxycodone in April 2014. He pled guilty in September 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Oxycodone.”In another matter, Derwin Lee Harris, 48, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine in July 2013. He pled guilty in October 2014 to one count of “Drug Conspiracy” following an investigation by the Martinsburg Police Department.
Additionally, Darrell Sherwood Logan, 57, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to time served since September 2014 for selling crack cocaine. He pled guilty in September 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base” following an investigation by the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Two indicted on child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury indicted two West Virginia residents today on child pornography charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Terry V. Austin, Sr., 50, of Grafton, West Virginia, was allegedly discovered in possession of multiple images and videos of child pornography during a West Virginia State Police investigation. He is charged with one count of “Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography,” for which he faces between five and twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. He is further charged with one count of “Possession of Child Pornography,” for which he faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
Additionally, convicted sex offender Daniel Frohnhofer, 43, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was allegedly discovered in possession of child pornography and a firearm during an investigation by the West Virginia State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. He is charged with one count of “Possession of Child Pornography,” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. He is further charged with one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm,” for which he faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Two Fairmont, WV residents convicted for role in manufacturing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Carl Ash, 32, and Amanda Isolde Eiseman, 25, both of Fairmont, West Virginia, were convicted in federal court for their role in manufacturing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
An investigation by the Three Rivers Drug Task Force revealed that Eiseman and Ash both repeatedly purchased pseudoephedrine, commonly used in the production of methamphetamine, throughout 2014.
Ash and Eiseman both pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Pseudoephedrine to be used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.” They each face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
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 Shawn Morgan is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided .Skin care business charged with selling misbranded, unauthorized medical productsRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a Jefferson County, West Virginia business, its owner, and its president with distributing medical products without the approval of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
David B. Phillips, 58, of Charles Town, West Virginia, owns and operates Phillips Technologies and Rebuilder Medical Technologies, Inc. in Jefferson County, West Virginia. Bryan Sheldon, 56, also of Charles Town, West Virginia, is the president of Rebuilder Medical Technologies, Inc.
An FDA investigation revealed that Phillips, Sheldon, and their corporate entities were manufacturing and distributing SilverCure Ointment, a product containing colloidal silver for use in treating molluscum, psoriasis and other skin conditions. The FDA has not approved drugs containing colloidal silver due to concerns over its lack of effectiveness and the risk of side effects. Such side effects include argyriais, a condition resulting in blue or gray discoloration of the skin resulting from an accumulation of silver or silver sulfide particles in the skin due to the prolonged intake of silver products.
Phillips represented to the FDA that his businesses would discontinue the production and sale of products containing colloidal silver. However, Phillips and his business continued to sell misbranded and unauthorized products containing silver.
Phillips, Sheldon, and Rebuilder Medical Technologies, Inc. are each charged with:• One count of “Conspiracy to Violate the Laws,” for which they each face five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
• Four counts of “Introduction into Interstate Commerce of New Drug without Approval.” They each face up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00 (corporation) or $250,000.00 (individuals) on each count.
• Four counts of “Mislabeling/Misbranding a Drug.” They each face up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00 (corporation) or $250,000.00 (individuals) 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 defendants.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Multiple Clarksburg, WV residents charged with heroin, cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments today charging multiple Clarksburg, West Virginia residents with heroin and cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Jason Grant, 30, Whitney M. Golden, 25, and Marcus McBride, 24, all of Clarksburg, West Virginia, are alleged to have repeatedly sold heroin near the Monticello Avenue Playground in Clarksburg throughout late 2014.
Grant is charged with:
One count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin,” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
Four counts of “Distribution of Heroin within 1000’ of a Protected Location.” He faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00 on each count.
One count of “Possession With Intent to Distribute Heroin within 1000’ of a Protected Location,” for which he faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00.
One count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime,” for which he faces between five years and life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
Golden is charged with:
One count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin,” for which she faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
One count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1000’ of a Protected Location,” for which he faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00.
One count of “Possession With Intent to Distribute Heroin within 1000’ of a Protected Location,” for which she faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00.
All three defendants are charged with one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises – Aiding and Abetting,” for which they each face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00.
Douglas Dustin Lish, 29, and Brittany Faith Hurst, 24, both of Clarksburg, West Virginia, allegedly sold heroin and cocaine throughout late 2014.
Both defendants are charged with:
One count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin.” They each face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
One count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” They each face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
One count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises – Aiding and Abetting,” for which they each face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00.
Lish is further charged with:
Three counts of “Distribution of Heroin.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00 on each count.
One count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime,” for which he faces between five years and life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
One count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm,” for which he faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,00.00.
One count of “Distribution of Cocaine,” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
Al-Teric Garrett, 23, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was allegedly involved in heroin and cocaine trafficking throughout 2014. He is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin Within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location” and two counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base Within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location. He faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00 on each of the three counts.
The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated all of the defendants. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted in investigating Lish and Hurst.
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.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Baltimore, MD man convicted of selling crack cocaineRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin Troy Clark, 24, of Baltimore, Maryland, was convicted in federal court for selling crack cocaine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
An investigation by the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force revealed that Clark sold crack cocaine in October 2013 in Martinsburg, West Virginia.Clark pleded guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Robert W. Trumble presided.
West Virginia Man Charged with Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Noel Barrera Silva, 25, a foreign national living in Moorefield, West Virginia, was charged today with methamphetamine trafficking after authorities recently recovered a large quantity of the drug from a vehicle Silva was operating, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
According to Ihlenfeld, the West Virginia State Police conducted a traffic stop in Wardensville, West Virginia last week and discovered Silva to be in possession of four pounds of methamphetamine. As a result of the traffic stop, Silva was charged today in federal court by criminal complaint with the felony offense of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” A similar charge that was filed in state court will be dismissed once a federal detainer has been lodged against Silva.
“I commend the efforts of the Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force and the West Virginia State Police in preventing such a large quantity of methamphetamine from hitting the streets of North Central West Virginia,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “In light of the increasing influx of methamphetamine from foreign sources, we must remain vigilant in identifying and prosecuting the sources of supply for this highly addictive and dangerous drug.”
A complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Youngstown, Ohio Man Convicted in Bath Salts and Synthetic Drug Distribution OperationRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Skruck, 59, of Youngstown, Ohio, was convicted in federal court 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 admitted that he participated in a scheme to distribute bath salts. Skruck further admitted to structuring financial transactions to shield more than $200,000.00 from the reporting requirements of the Internal Revenue Service throughout 2012.
Skruck pled guilty to one count of “Drug Conspiracy,” for which he faces 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00. He also pled guilty to one count of “Structuring Monetary Transactions to Evade the Reporting Requirement,” for which he faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00. He also agreed to forfeit multiple parcels of real property, U.S. currency and bank accounts, vehicles, heavy equipment, a trailer, and a professional embroidery machine. 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.
Three others have already been sentenced in connection with the drug distribution operation. Jeffrey J. Paglia, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, owner of the Hot Stuff Cool Things store in Rosebud Plaza, was sentenced to 87 months in prison. Jeremia J. Phillips and Derrick L. Calip were each sentenced to 21 months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert McWilliams and Shawn Morgan are prosecuting 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, are leading the investigation.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Georgia Woman Sentenced for Writing Fraudulent Painkiller PrescriptionsRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – April Davis, 23, of Marietta, Georgia, was sentenced today for her role in a scheme to fraudulently obtain prescription painkillers, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Davis participated in a scheme to obtain prescription painkillers using fraudulent prescriptions. Davis would forge prescriptions from an emergency room doctor in Georgia. She would then provide the falsified prescriptions to her mother to fill at a pharmacy in Bridgeport, West Virginia. Her mother would then ship painkillers from West Virginia to Davis in Georgia.
Davis pled guilty in September 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Fraudulent Obtaining Possession of a Controlled Substance.” She was sentenced today to five years of probation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Fairmont, WV Convicted for Role in Manufacturing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy, Wayne Ferrell, Jr., 33, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was convicted today in federal court for his role in manufacturing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Ferrell was discovered in May 2014 in possession of medication pseudoephedrine, a common ingredient in methamphetamine. He was also discovered in September 2014 in unlawful possession of a rifle.
Ferrell pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of Pseudoephedrine to be used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine, for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. He also pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Firearm by Unlawful User/Drug Addict to Controlled Substance,” for which he faces up to ten years in prison and fine of up to $250,000.00. 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 Morgan is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug and Violent Crime Task Force is leading the investigation.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
FCI Hazelton Inmate Sentenced for Assaulting, Injuring Correctional OfficerRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Carlos Lupercio, a 30-year-old inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution at Hazelton, was convicted and sentenced today for assaulting a correctional officer, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
In July 2014, another FCI Hazelton inmate was involved in a dispute with a correctional officer. Lupercio joined in the dispute, striking the officer in the head and torso and jumping on his back. He pled guilty today to one count of “Assault of a Correctional Officer Resulting in Injury.” He was sentenced to an additional 24 months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar iprosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Special Investigative Services Unit at FCI Hazelton led the investigation.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.