Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects More Than $13 Million in Fiscal Year 2014Read the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Through a combination of civil and criminal actions, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia collected more than $13 million during Fiscal Year 2014, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
The office collected $5,378,951.98 from civil actions, $957,890.18 from criminal actions, and $1,521,711.40 from civil and criminal asset forfeitures for a total of $13,095,953.31.
“My office has many talented and hardworking people dedicated to recovering funds for victims of crimes and for the federal treasury,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “We’ll remain aggressive in 2015 to prosecute and hold accountable all those who seek to profit from illegal activities.”
Large criminal collections from 2014 include:
• $333,787.32 paid by Joseph Yurigan, D.C. of New Alexandria, PA as a result of his conviction for submitting fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicaid. Yurigan was convicted in 2013, and paid a total of $836,265.95 in Fiscal Years 2013 and 2014. In addition to restitution paid to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, individual victims included Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, the WV Offices of the Insurance Commissioner, and Brickstreet Insurance.
Large civil collections for FY 2014 include:
• $2,000,000.00 paid by Judy’s Drug Store as a result of a civil settlement with Judy’s Drug Store, Inc., Darin Judy, Emily Judy, Kimberly Arbaugh and Casey Watts. The defendants paid to settle accusations that Judy’s Drug Store repeatedly filled prescriptions for controlled substances, such as oxycodone and hydromorphone, not written for legitimate medical purposes. The pharmacists filled these prescriptions outside the scope of professional practice. The federal investigation into Judy’s Drug Store arose after the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted and obtained a conviction against Hardy County, West Virginia physician, Rajan Masih, in 2011. Dr. Masih was convicted of distributing controlled substances for other than legitimate medical purposes and outside the scope of professional practice. Dr. Masih wrote many of the prescriptions for controlled substances improperly filled by Judy’s Drug Store.
• $1,600,000.00 paid by Chesapeake Appalachia for civil violations of the United States Clean Water Act and West Virginia’s Water Pollution Control Act and West Virginia’s requirements governing water quality standards, by discharging pollutants, including dredged or fill material, and/or controlling and directing the discharge of pollutants, including dredged or fill material, into waters of the United States and/or the State, without authorization, at various locations in Boone, Kanawha, Lewis, Marshall, Mingo, Preston, Upshur and Wetzel counties of West Virginia.
• $1,000,000.00 civil penalty paid by Devender Batra, M.D. and Belmont Cardiology, Inc., after causing East Ohio Regional Hospital and Ohio Valley Medical Center to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare from January 2009 to August of 2010, for prohibited referrals for various health services in violation of the Federal False Claims Act.
• $660,000.00 paid by the Ohio Valley Health Education & Services Corporation (OVHS&E), Ohio Valley Medical Center (OVMC), and East Ohio Regional Hospital (EORH) in Fiscal Year 2014 on a case that was settled in FY 2012. Since settlement, these entities have paid over $2.0 million and still owe $1.7 million dollars to the federal government for violations of the Stark Act and improper compensation arrangements with physicians.
Large criminal asset forfeitures for FY 2014 include:
• $192,325.00 in forfeited assets from Anita Ambler, a former bookkeeper at the Mountaineer Racetrack, who was convicted by a federal jury trial in April of 2013 on eleven counts of “Mail Fraud”, ten counts of “Wire Fraud”, and four counts of “Transacting in Criminal Proceeds.” In addition to the forfeiture, Ambler was required to pay a money judgment of $1,305,090.15.
• $76,625.00 in assets seized from Kimberly Mull, who entered a guilty plea to the offense of “Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule I and Schedule II Controlled Substances,” which included the sale and distribution of heroin, cocaine, and oxycodone pills. The source state for most of the heroin referenced in the Mull indictment was Pennsylvania, while the pain pills came from Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. As part of her sentence, Mull was ordered to pay $11,000 to the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force as reimbursement for funds that were paid to her during the controlled purchases of narcotics. She must also pay a money judgment of $50,000 to the United States of America.
• $75,000.00 in forfeited assets seized from David Tamm, a former vice-president at Fairmont State University, who was convicted of stealing funds from the school through the use of state-issued purchasing cards as well as funds from federal education grants. In addition to the forfeiture, the Court also imposed a money judgment in the amount of $639,174.33.
U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid directly to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims’ Fund, which distributes the funds to state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
Attorney General Eric Holder announced today that the Justice Department collected $24.7 billion though civil and criminal actions in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014.
Philadelphia Man Charged with Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Reginald Maurice Teasley, Jr., 38, of Philadelphia, PA with heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Teasley is charged with 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. He was discovered in possession of heroin in October 2014 in Clarksburg, West Virginia.
Teasley 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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ohio Man Sentenced for Painkiller, Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dustin Namack, 37, of Adena, Ohio, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for his role in a for his role in a painkiller and cocaine distribution ring, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Namack pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II and Schedule III Controlled Substances” after an investigation by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Georgia Woman Sentenced for Selling PainkillersRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Dorothy Ellen Metz, 62, of Athens, Georgia, was sentenced to twelve months and one day in prison for selling prescription painkillers, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Metz pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.” An investigation by the United States Forest Service revealed that Metz traveled from Georgia to Randolph County, West Virginia to sell oxycodone pills.
In other matters:
Jeremy Edward White, 34, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced to seven months in prison for his role in selling prescription painkillers. He pled guilty in September 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Clonazepam” following an investigation by the United States Forest Service.
Beth Harman Ours, 46, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to five years of probation. An investigation by the Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crime Task Force revealed her role in selling valium pills. She pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Diazepam.”
Elizabeth Allison Sweatt, 39, of Nice, California, was sentenced to five years of probation. She was also ordered to forfeit $15,402.98 and to pay a money judgment in the amount of $60,000.00. She pled guilty in May 2014 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana – Aiding and Abetting.” An investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service revealed that she was mailing packages containing marijuana from California to an associate in West Virginia for redistribution.
Jordan Elliot Ross, 24, was sentenced to three years of probation. Ross pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Hydrocodone” following a West Virginia State Police investigation.
Chad Preston, 34, of Coalton, West Virginia, was sentenced to three years of probation. He pled guilty in March 2014 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone” following an investigation by the Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted Preston and Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Warner prosecuted the remaining cases on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Fairmont, WV Man Charged with Stealing Government MoneyRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging former United States Forest Service employee Kwaku A. Akomah, 40, of Fairmont, West Virginia, with 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 is charged with two counts of “Theft of Government Money.” He faces up to 10 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 defendant.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Authorities Seize 413 Grams of Crack Cocaine, Dealer Sentenced to 97 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – John A. Boyles, 34, of Kerens, West Virginia was sentenced to 97 months in prison after authorities seized 413 grams of crack cocaine from his residence, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
“This is one of the largest seizures of crack cocaine to date in the Northern District of West Virginia,” commented U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “I applaud the dedicated efforts of investigators in this case. We remain committed to aggressively combating the pervasive drug addiction problem facing our communities.” Boyles pled guilty in May 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base” following a West Virginia State Police investigation.
In another matter, Brandon Michael Beeson, 28, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced to 51 months in prison. Beeson pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of “Possession of Material used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine” after he was discovered in possession of various materials including coffee filters, lithium batteries, airline tubing, air pump, instant cold packs, starter fluid, lighter fluid, salt, drain cleaner, plastic bottles, a pill crusher, glass and plastic bottles, which can be used to manufacture methamphetamine. The Randolph and Upshur County Sheriff’s Departments and the Buckhannon Police Department investigated.
Additionally, Natasha Jewell Biggins, 28, of Montrose, West Virginia, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for her role in manufacturing methamphetamine, She pled guilty in April 2014 to one count of “Possession of Pseudoephedrine to be used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine” after methamphetamine manufacturing materials were discovered in her residence as part of a West Virginia State Police investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Warner prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Wheeling Man Sentenced for Sale of Cocaine, PainkillersRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Adam W. Barnes, 40, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for his role in a painkiller and cocaine distribution ring, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Barnes pled guilty in September 2014 to one count of “Conspiracy to Use a Telephone System to Facilitate the Distribution of Controlled Substances” after an investigation by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
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 Trafficking 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 – Two West Virginia residents were convicted of drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Eric Holt, 43, of Lumberport, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base - Aiding and Abetting” following an investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
Terry J. Sutter, 51, of Mill Creek, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Manufacture and Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Marijuana” following an investigation by the National Forest Service and the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office. He 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted Holt and Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Warner prosecuted Sutter on behalf of the government
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Three Sentenced for Selling Unauthorized WV LicensesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three men were sentenced for their role in a scheme to produce and sell unauthorized West Virginia driver’s licenses, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Jesse Antonio Garcia, 28, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 15 months in prison. He pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of Aiding and Abetting Unlawful Production of Identification Document.”
Marcos Hernandez Hernandez, 40, of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced to eight months in prison. He pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Unlawful Production of Identification Document.”
Kermit Miller, 61, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to three years of probation. He pled guilty in February 2014 to one count of “Conspiracy to Defraud in Connection with Identification Documents”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
NOTE: This press release was on 11/20/2014 to reflect the fact that the driver's licenses in question were produced without authorization.
Three Sentenced for Selling Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three men were sentenced for crack cocaine distribution, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Navarre Sowell, 38, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 92 months in prison for his role in selling cocaine base. He will also forfeit $7,507.00. He pled guilty in August 2014 to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Use of Telephone Facility to Distribute Cocaine Base.”
James Willard Johnson, 39, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 51 months in prison for his role in selling cocaine base. He pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Adrian Nicholas Sanchez, 30, of Cumberland, Maryland was sentenced to 18 months in prison for his role in selling cocaine and cocaine base. He pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II Controlled Substances.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Convicted Felon Sentenced for Unlawful Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Convicted felon Marvin Junior Thompson, 59, of Burlington, West Virginia, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Thompson was convicted in March 1990 of the felony offenses of “First Degree Murder” and “Burglary” in the Circuit Court of Hampshire County, West Virginia. As a result of this conviction, Thompson was prohibited from possessing a firearm. In May 2013, Thompson was discovered in possession of a .300 caliber rifle along with ten rounds of .300 caliber ammunition.
Thompson pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearm” after an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Mineral County Sheriff’s Department, and the West Virginia State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Two Convicted of Selling Bath SaltsRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Clarksburg area residents were convicted for their role in distributing bath salts, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Stephanie Michelle Furner, 34, of Salem, West Virginia, and Rodney Wayne Swiger, 46, of Clarksburg, West Virginia each pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Controlled Substance Analogue – Aiding and Abetting.”
An investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Furner and Swiger sold bath salts known as “Power X Energy Soak.” The bath salts contained a controlled substance known as “α-Pyrrolidinovalerophenone” or “α-PVP.”
Furner and Swiger each face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Three Sentenced on Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Three West Virginia residents were sentenced on drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Diane Savage, 50, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for oxycodone distribution. She will also forfeit $2,332.94. She pled guilty in January 2014 to a criminal Information charging her with one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Oxycodone.” An investigation by the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Savage would receive shipments of painkillers from California and orchestrate a group of associates to redistribute the pills.
Sylvester Walker, 22, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for selling crack cocaine near the Luau Manor, a public housing authority facility in Wheeling. He pled guilty in December 2013 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, led the investigation.
Clarence W. Bertram, 23, of Wheeling, West Virginia was sentenced to 21 months in prison for selling crack cocaine near Wheeling Central Catholic High School. Following an investigation by the West Virginia State Police and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, he pled guilty in February 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000’ of a Protected Location.”
U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld prosecuted Bertram and Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard prosecuted Walker and Savage on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Ohio Man Sentenced for Extorting More Than $1,000,000 in Stolen MoneyRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason Kirkland Weese, 31, of East Liverpool, Ohio, will serve 63 months in prison for his role in extorting more than $1,000,000.00 from a former Bethany College employee, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
An investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Brooke County Sheriff’s Department revealed that Weese exchanged sexually explicit text messages and photographs with a female employee of Bethany College who was embezzling money from the school. Weese then threatened to disclose the female employee’s theft and the illicit relationship. He used the messages and photographs along with threats of physical force to coerce the female employee into giving him large amounts of the stolen money. Weese and his wife used the embezzled funds to make a variety of luxury purchases, including a 2013 Chevrolet Camaro.
Weese pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Extortion Conspiracy” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Money Laundering.” He was sentenced to 63 months on each count, to be served concurrently for a total of 63 months in prison.
As part of the sentence, Weese was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,037,398.52. He will also forfeit nearly $700,000.00, a 2013 Chevrolet Camaro along with certain aftermarket accessories, a 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander, a 2013 Honda TRX90X all-terrain vehicle, and a Toro Timecutter MX4260 lawnmower.
U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Martinsburg Resident Convicted of Crack Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Martinsburg, West Virginia resident Jomo Kenyatta Morris, 25, was convicted of crack cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Morris pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base” after an investigation by the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
Morris faces 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 Jarod Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Marshall County MHIT “Blitz” Targets Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMOUNDSVILLE, WEST VIRGINIA – Leaders from the Mountaineer Highway Interdiction Team (MHIT) announced today that as part of a law enforcement initiative to actively combat drug trafficking, authorities executed a successful “Blitz,” or saturation patrol, in Marshall County, West Virginia between November 13 and November 14, 2014.
Representatives from the West Virginia State Police, Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, Glen Dale Police Department, and the Moundsville Police Department recently expanded MHIT operations into Marshall County. The underlying goal of MHIT is to impede the flow of illegal drugs into and through the State of West Virginia. MHIT largely targets highways and state routes, but also concentrates on airports, bus terminals, hotels, motels and parcel and package interdiction.
Marshall County Sheriff Kevin Cecil is “proud of the collaborative and well-orchestrated law enforcement effort to strategically address drug abuse in Marshall County. By dedicating additional resources to patrolling public highways, we enhance our ability to quickly recognize and respond to drug trafficking activities as they unfold.”
On November 13, officers executed arrest warrants resulting in 13 felony arrests and 14 misdemeanor arrests for charges ranging from drug trafficking and larceny to battery and fraud. Authorities also apprehended a fugitive from justice and seized 1.5 pounds of marijuana and $1,000.00 in United States currency. The highway interdiction efforts on November 14 culminated in the arrest of four individuals on misdemeanor drug charges and the seizure of prescription pills.
“By increasing the presence of law enforcement officers along heavily traveled roadways, we can aggressively and efficiently target drug trafficking operations,” said West Virginia State Police Captain James Merrill. “Highway interdiction increases the pressure on drug dealers to move their operations elsewhere, ultimately making our communities stronger and safer.”
Three Sentenced for Drug Trafficking Near Local SchoolsRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Three West Virginia residents were sentenced for selling crack cocaine and oxycodone near local schools, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Gary “Moe” Wade, 40, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 37 months in prison in prison. He pled guilty in January 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000’ of a Protected Location.” An investigation by the West Virginia State Police and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Wade sold crack cocaine near Wheeling Central High School.
Kristen Nieman, 23, of Benwood, West Virginia was sentenced to 27 months in prison and ordered to pay $10,287.88 in restitution. She pled guilty in March 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Oxycodone within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” An investigation by the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Nieman sold oxycodone near Moundsville Middle School.Devon Bertram, 25, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to twelve months and one day in prison and ordered to forfeit $1,388.00. He pled guilty in January 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” An investigation by the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Bertram sold crack cocaine near Wheeling Central Catholic High School.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II prosecuted Wade, Assistant U.S. Attorney Rob McWilliams prosecuted Nieman, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard prosecuted Bertram on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
In another matter before Judge Stamp, Amber J. Cross, 26, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 57 months in prison. She pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Oxycodone” after a West Virginia State Police investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rob McWilliams prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Pennsylvania Man Sentenced for Selling Heroin Near WV PlaygroundRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rayson Brown, 23, of West Homestead, Pennsylvania was sentenced to 37 months in prison for selling heroin near a local playground, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
A West Virginia State Police Investigation revealed that Brown sold heroin near the Star City Playground in Star City, West Virginia. He pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin within 1000’ of Protected Location.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Clarksburg Woman Sentenced in Detroit to WV Painkiller Distribution NetworkRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jaunita Farnsworth, 31, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for her role in an oxycodone distribution network, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Farnsworth pled guilty in March 2014 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.” An investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives uncovered the painkiller distribution network. Oxycodone pills were transported from Detroit, Michigan to West Virginia. Farnsworth, among others, redistributed the painkillers in the community.As part of the sentence, Farnsworth was also ordered to forfeit two firearms, ammunition and $5,947.00 in currency.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Wheeling Woman Convicted of Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Marisol Rodriguez, 34, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was convicted of distributing crack cocaine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Rodriguez admitted to selling crack cocaine when she pled guilty to one count of "Conspiracy to Possess with Intent and to Distribute Cocaine Base” after an investigation by the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Two Sentenced for Distributing Heroin Near Local SchoolRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Marcel D. Weaver, 30, of East Liverpool, Ohio, and Holly D. Keyes, 26, of Chester, West Virginia, were sentenced for distributing heroin near a local elementary school, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
An investigation by the Hancock, Brooke, and Weirton Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Weaver and Keyes sold heroin near Allison Elementary School in Chester, West Virginia. They each pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of "Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin Within 1,000 Feet of a protected Location."
Weaver was sentenced to 51 months in prison. Keyes was sentenced to 21months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Steve Vogrin prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
New Martinsville Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jonathan Harman, 26, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, was sentenced for possession of child pornography, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
An investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation revealed that Harman utilized the internet and peer-to-peer file sharing networks to access and download images and videos containing child pornography.
Harman pled guilty in July 2014 to a criminal Information charging him with one count of "Possession of Child Pornography," including at least one image involving a prepubescent minor and a minor who had not attained 12 years of age. He was sentenced to five years of probation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Leader of Drug Distribution Network Sentenced to 108 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard L. Baron, 52, of Triadelphia, West Virginia, the leader of a prescription painkiller, heroin, and cocaine distribution network, was sentenced to 108 months in prison, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Sophisticated surveillance techniques employed by U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that large quantities of prescription pills were obtained from Columbus, Ohio, Baltimore, Maryland, Detroit, Michigan, and California. Baron then orchestrated a complex collection of associates to redistribute the drugs. The distribution network focused primarily on prescription pills, but also involved heroin and cocaine.
Baron, also known as "Unc" or "Class,” admitted his role is distributing oxycodone, heroin, and cocaine when he pled guilty in October 2012 to one count of "Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule I and II Controlled Substances." As part of his sentence, Baron will also forfeit more than $10,0000.00. The 108 month sentence will be served consecutive to a twelve month sentence imposed in a supervised release revocation hearing.
Additionally, Douglas Lee Saunders, 55, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced to five years of probation. Saunders supplied the distribution network with at least 297 oxycodone pills.
Twenty-two others were convicted as part of the Baron case, including Robert Paige Patterson, Samneisha Walker, Letitia Kadija Tambi, Deandre Scott Estelle, Edward Barry Davis, Robin E. Rusk, Brian Nicholas Barber, Gary Jospeh Hack, Elliot Ross Fitzsimmons, Chelsea Aleece Radcliffe, Thomas James Kunik, Ashlie Noel Taylor, Jenny E. Kota, Richard Fischer, Kevin R. Mills, James Nathan Barcus, Jonathan Allen Wildey, Reuben Jule Rouse, Teo Marcero Coleman, Jarrett James Robinson, Richard Edward Lang, Jr., and Craig A. Booker.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Hundred, WV Woman Sentenced for Distributing MarijuanaRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Nelda K. White, 55, of Hundred, West Virginia, was sentenced to twelve months and one day in prison for distributing marijuana, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
White pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of "Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana" after a West Virginia State Police investigation revealed that White was receiving shipments of marijuana from a source in California and reselling the marijuana in the Hundred, West Virginia area.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Westover, WV Man Sentenced for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles E. Jefferson, 26, of Westover, West Virginia, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for selling heroin, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Jefferson pled guilty in February 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin” after a West Virginia State Police investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene S. Keeley presided.
Mexican National Convicted of Producing Unauthorized Driver’s LicenseRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Mexican national Jesus Ramon Garcia Campos, 57, was convicted today for his role in producing an unauthorized West Virginia driver’s license, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigation revealed that Garcia Campos, also known as “Chicano,” conspired with a Department of Motor Vehicles employee to sell unauthorized identification documents to foreign nationals.
Garcia Campos, pled guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Unlawful Production of Identification Document.” He 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 defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Gina M. Groh presided.
NOTE: This press release was on 11/20/2014 to reflect the fact that the driver's license in question was produced without authorization.
Harrison County Assistant Prosecutor Appointed as Special Assistant U.S. AttorneyRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shawn Adkins, an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Harrison County, has been appointed to the position of Special Assistant United States Attorney with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II and Harrison County Prosecuting Attorney Joseph F. Shaffer announced today.
“We are thrilled to have Shawn Adkins designated as a federal prosecutor,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “He will primarily handle cases arising out of Harrison County, with an emphasis on drug trafficking and violent crimes. We are confident that he will leverage his significant criminal prosecution experience to strategically address crime and promote safety in Harrison County. This opportunity to collaborate with the Harrison County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is just one example of innovative efforts to coordinate and strengthen local and federal law enforcement efforts.”
Prosecuting Attorney Joseph Shaffer is “very excited for the opportunity to forge an even better working relationship between the Harrison County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia. The dual role of Shawn Adkins as Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Harrison County and Special Assistant United States Attorney will serve as a working bridge between our agencies. The entire state and federal law enforcement community will benefit from our two agencies taking the lead in cooperating, on an even greater level, in the fight against crime in the area. Given the current climate of the illicit drug market in our area, it is more important than ever that state and federal law enforcement, on every level, work together for the betterment of public safety and in the best interest of justice. Mr. Adkins will represent our constituents professionally and capably. I am grateful to United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II for this opportunity.”
Adkins graduated from Marshall University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Business Administration. He earned a J.D. from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 2011.
Glenville, WV Man Convicted of 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 – James L. Ash, 44, of Glenville, West Virginia, was convicted of manufacturing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
A West Virginia State Police investigation revealed evidence of Ash’s involvement in an operation to produce methamphetamine. Ash frequently and repeatedly purchased pseudoephedrine, a decongestant often used as a component in methamphetamine. Ash also purchased other items typically utilized to create methamphetamine.
Ash pled guilty today to one count of "Aiding and Abetting Manufacture of Methamphetamine.” 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 David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Fairmont Woman 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 SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Andrea Nicole Shepard, 24, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today for her role in distributing prescription painkillers through the office of Dr. Edita Milan, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
While employed in Dr. Milan’s Bridgeport, West Virginia office, Shepard used the text messaging functionality on her mobile phone to arrange the unlawful sale of prescription painkillers. She pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the use of a Communication Facility to Distribute Buprenorphine” after an investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
The Task Force investigation began with citizen complaints surrounding prescription writing practices of Dr. Edita Milan’s practice. Milan is scheduled for trial on January 5, 2015.
Shepard was sentenced today to four months and twenty days in prison to be followed by one month and ten days of home detention. Shepard was given credit for time served and released.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Irene M. Keeley presided.
Pennsylvania Sex Offender Sentenced for Failure to Update RegistrationRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Pennsylvania sex offender Charles Lundis, 64, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for failure to update his sex offender registration when he relocated to Weirton, West Virginia, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Lundis was convicted of “Rape” in Pennsylvania in September 1990. As a result, he is required to register as a sex offender. An investigation by the United States Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police revealed that Lundis failed to register with the West Virginia Sex Offender Registry when he moved from Pennsylvania to Weirton in September 2013.
Lundis pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Failure to Register and Update Registration as a Sex Offender – SORNA.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Ohio Man Sentenced for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Lionel Hollingsworth, 25, of Marietta, Ohio, was sentenced today to 23 months in prison for heroin distribution, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
An investigation by the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Hollingsworth sold heroin in November 2013 near Moundsville, West Virginia. He pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Washington, D.C. Man Convicted of Failure to Update Sex Offender RegistrationRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Celot Jay Carr, Jr., 38, of Washington, D.C., was convicted today of failure to update his sex offender registration after relocating to West Virginia, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
In December 2006, Carr was convicted of “Second Degree Child Abuse” in the District of Columbia Superior Court for engaging in sexual activity with a minor. As a result, Carr is required to register as a sex offender. Upon his release, Carr registered with the District of Columbia Sex Offender Registry. Carr failed to update his sex offender registration when he subsequently relocated from Washington D.C. to Westover, West Virginia in January 2013.
Carr pled guilty today to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration” after a U.S Marshals Service and West Virginia State Police investigation. 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 Shawn Morgan is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Two Wheeling Men Convicted of Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Wheeling, West Virginia men pled guilty to drug trafficking offenses, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Daniel Hairston, 35, admitted to selling crack cocaine near the Booker T. Washington Plaza Apartments, a public housing authority facility in Wheeling, West Virginia. He pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 Feet 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.
Jackie Byrd, 25, admitted to cocaine trafficking and stabbing a cooperating witness in retaliation. Byrd pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent and to Distribute Cocaine Base,” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00. He also pled guilty to one count of “Retaliation Against a Cooperating Witness,” for which 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 Randy Bernard is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is leading the investigation.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Morgantown Man Charged with Counterfeiting U.S. CurrencyRead 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 Barry Eugene Dragovich, 36, of Morgantown, West Virginia with repeatedly possessing and attempting to use counterfeit U.S. currency, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
The indictment, which stems from an investigation led by the United States Secret Service, charges Dragovich with three counts of “Possessing Counterfeit Obligations and Securities,” and one count of “Uttering Counterfeit Obligations and Securities.”
Dragovich faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00 for each of the four charges. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Five Charged in Steroid Distribution RingRead 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 the owner of a Morgantown, West Virginia gym and four others with operating a steroid distribution network, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
The indictment stems from an investigation by the United States Postal Service, the Food and Drug Administration, the Mon Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration into Carl R. Benedict, 49, of Morgantown, West Virginia.
As the owner of Club 24 Fitness, Benedict allegedly manufactured, processed, packaged, and sold compounds of Human Growth Hormone and Anabolic Steroids through the internet using materials procured from China. Benedict allegedly worked in collaboration with his associates Richard J. Pinelli, Jr., 27, of Mifflintown, Pennsylvania, Joseph B. Greco, 27, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, Derek S. Starn, 33, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, and Anthony F. DiDomenico, III, 28, of Morgantown, West Virginia.
The five defendants are each charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Human Growth Hormone,” for which they each face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00, one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Anabolic Steroids,” for which they each face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00, and one count of “Conspiracy to Launder Money Instruments,” for which they each face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00.
Greco is further charged with one count of “Smuggling,” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00, and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Human Growth Hormone,” for which he faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00.
DiDomenico is further charged with one count of “Mailing of Controlled Substances,” for which he faces up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00, one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Anabolic Steroids,” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00, one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Human Growth Hormone,” for which he faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00, and one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises,” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00.
Pinelli is further charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Anabolic Steroids,” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00, one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Human Growth Hormone,” for which he faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00, and one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises,” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00.
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 an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Elkins Man Charged with Painkiller DistributionRead 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 Jonathan Paul Calain, 34, of Elkins, West Virginia, with conspiring to distribute painkillers.
The indictment stems from an investigation led by the United States Forest Service which revealed that Calain repeatedly sold oxycodone pills to various individuals over an extended period of time.
Calain is charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone,” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00. He is also charged with one count of “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises,” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.00. 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 an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Detroit to West Virginia Painkiller Distribution Network DismantledRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Brian Schultz, the leader of a prescription painkiller and cocaine distribution ring, was convicted today in federal court, 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, led a sixteen month investigation leveraging sophisticated surveillance techniques to uncover a painkiller and cocaine distribution network led by Schultz, also known as “Worm.” He procured large quantities of prescription pills from groups in Detroit, Michigan and Northern Ohio. Schultz then orchestrated a series of associates to redistribute the pills in Northern West Virginia and Belmont County, Ohio.
Schultz, 38, of Triadelphia, West Virginia, admitted his role in distributing oxycodone, cocaine, and buprenorphine. He pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II and Schedule III Controlled Substances.”
Schultz 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. Schultz has two prior federal felony convictions. Schultz will also forfeit approximately $70,000.00 in cash and will be ordered to pay a money judgment of $30,000.00.
Fourteen others were convicted as part of the Schultz case, including Katherine Hungerman, Dustin Namack, Derick Namack, Steven Namack, Jill West, also known as Jill Namack, Christopher Howard, Buddy Salem, Kristyn Fetcko, Michael Coppa, Cara Olako, Richard Hercules, Jr., Lucas N. High, Adam Barnes, and Jordan Sorge.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Three Convicted of Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Three West Virginia residents pled guilty in federal court to drug trafficking offenses, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today
Jeremiah Dustin Dean, 33, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was discovered with oxycodone pills during the course of an investigation by the West Virginia State Police and the Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. He pled guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
Mindy Rachelle Leary, 26, of Durbin, West Virginia, and Justin Gregory Riffe, 24, of Bartow, West Virginia, admitted to distributing pseudoephedrine, a component used to manufacture methamphetamine. They each pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of a Laboratory Supply, Knowingly to Manufacture Methamphetamine” Each defendant faces up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.00.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Warner is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Baltimore Man, Three Others, Convicted of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Baltimore man and three West Virginia residents were convicted of drug trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Tavon Darrell Moore, 30, of Baltimore, Maryland, pled guilty to one count of “Drug Conspiracy – Heroin.”
Armistead William Craig, 35, of Ranson, West Virginia, pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Pamela Jean Bailey, 30, of Petersburg, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine.”
Tony Calvin Collins, 20, also of Petersburg, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroine.”
Each defendant faces up to 20 years in prison and 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 Jarod Douglas is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is leading the investigation.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
U.S. Attorney and FBI to Combat Fraud, Abuses on Election DayRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs Specialist
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner will lead the efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 4, 2014, general elections, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Warner has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO), and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington. Warner will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached 304-636-1739 (office) or 304-644-1546 (mobile).
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on Election Day.
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice.
The FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on Election Day. The local FBI field office can be reached at 304-624-6200.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington by phone at 1-800-253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by email to [email protected] or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php.Two Convicted Felons Sentenced for Unlawful Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two West Virginia men with prior felony convictions were sentenced for unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Shaye Christopher Cole, 27, of Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia, was sentenced to 18 months in prison. He pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearm” after he was discovered with a .22 caliber rifle. He was convicted in 2008 of the felony offense of “Possession of Burglary Tools” in the Circuit Court of Frederick County, Virginia.
Jason Tyler Bland, 35, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, was sentenced to 37 months in prison. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearm” after he was discovered with a 9mm pistol. He was convicted in 2006 of the felony offenses of “Manufacture of a Controlled Substance: Marijuana” and “Delivery of a Controlled Substance: Heroin” in the Circuit Court of Morgan County, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted Cole on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti prosecuted Bland on behalf of the government. The Mountain State Fugitive Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the West Virginia Division of Probation and Parole investigated.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Ohio Woman and Three WV Natives Sentenced for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Shadyside, Ohio woman and three West Virginia residents were sentenced for drug trafficking offenses, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Katherine Hungerman, 45, of Shadyside, Ohio, was sentenced to 46 months in prison after she conspired to distribute oxycodone, cocaine, and buprenorphine, a pain medication used to treat opioid dependence. She pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II and Schedule III Controlled Substances.”
Megan Brak, 28, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 33 months in prison. Brak pled guilty in September 2013 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base and Heroin”
Richard W. Hercules, 50, of McMechon, West Virginia, was sentenced to 10 months in prison. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Oxycodone.”
Michael Coppa, 48, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to five months in prison. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr prosecuted Hercules, Hungerman, and Coppa on behalf of the government. An investigation by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed their involvement in a prescription painkiller and cocaine distribution organization.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard prosecuted Brak on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Morgantown Man Sentenced for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs Specialist
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jacob White, 26, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for distributing cocaine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
White will serve the 30 months prison term immediately following an unrelated state sentence for which he is currently incarcerated. He was also ordered to forfeit $1551.00.
White pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Hydrochloride” after an investigation by the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations revealed that he sold powder cocaine in Monongalia County in October 2012.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.Five Sentenced for Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Five individuals were sentenced for drug trafficking offenses, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Christopher Lee Redman, 30, of Keyser, West Virginia, was sentenced to 27 months in prison. He pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II Controlled Substances” after an investigation revealed his participation in the distribution of cocaine.
Robert Lee Jessie, 35, also of Keyser, West Virginia, was sentenced to 18 months in prison. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Tyrone Lamont Fleming, 23, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 18 months in prison. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Ebony Ishia Haynes Jack, 33, of Palm Coast, Florida, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison. She pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments” as part of a larger drug trafficking scheme.
Darius Nolan Hogan, 32, of Hyattsville, Maryland, was sentenced to five years of probation. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated Redman, Jessie, and Jack. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated Fleming and Hogan.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Local Coaches Embrace Domestic Violence AwarenessRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Throughout October, National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has partnered with the Wheeling YWCA to promote Coaching Boys into Men, a coach-to-athlete training program designed to promote domestic violence awareness and healthy relationships, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
The Coaching Boys into Men program, administered by Futures Without Violence, provides high school athletic coaches with resources to promote respectful behavior among their players and help prevent relationship abuse, harassment, and sexual assault. The program was launched in 2001 as a national public service announcement campaign in partnership with the Advertising Council.
“This is a critical message for student athletes and all young adults in our community,” stated Ihlenfeld. “Young people represent the future of our economy and learning to build healthy relationships is vital for a thriving community and workforce. Student athletes, in particular, are expected to play aggressively and win games. This program stresses the importance of tempering that aggression and promoting respect both on and off the field. We thank the football coaches at Wheeling Central Catholic High School, Brooke High School, and Wheeling Park High School for allowing us to speak with the teams and kick off this initiative. We look forward to introducing additional programing in the coming months.”
“We need to end the cycle of domestic violence,” said Patricia Flanigan, Family Violence Prevention Program Director for the Wheeling YWCA. “During a recent meeting of the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference, I met with local athletic directors and we are thrilled that many of them are embracing the opportunity to play hard and win games while developing their players into compassionate, respectful men. John Marshall High School has committed to implement the program and we look forward to collaborating with other local schools to foster this important message.”
Anyone interested in additional information on Coaching Boys into Men is encouraged to visit www.coachescorner.org.
Mexican National Convicted of Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Mexican national Julio Ruiz de los Santos, 26, was convicted of illegal reentry after authorities discovered that he was in the U.S. illegally for the third time, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Julio Ruiz de los Santos, who was previously deported twice from California to Mexico in 2007, pled guilty to one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien” after he was discovered in Morgantown, West Virginia without the consent of the Attorney General of the United States for reapplication for admission into the United States. He was sentenced to time served since September 2014 and remanded into the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement pending deportation.
Assistant U.S. Shawn Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Ohio Man Convicted of Selling Heroin Near Local PlaygroundRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jewan Kyle, 28, of Cleveland, Ohio, was convicted of distributing heroin near Bloch Playground on Wheeling Island, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Kyle, who has multiple prior felony drug convictions, pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin Within 1000’ of a Protected Location” after an investigation by the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The Task Force is comprised of the West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department, the Wheeling Police Department, and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.
Kyle, who will remain in custody pending sentencing, faces between one and forty years in prison and 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 defendants.
United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld, II prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Martinsburg Woman Convicted of Defrauding IRSRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Debra Myers, 52, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court after she admitted to her role in a tax fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Myers pled guilty today to a one-count Information alleging that she conspired to defraud the Internal Revenue Service. An investigation led by the IRS and the West Virginia State Police revealed that she signed five fraudulent tax returns at the direction of her boyfriend, a tax preparer, and allowed more than $30,000.00 in improper refunds to be deposited into her bank accounts.
Myers faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. As part of the plea agreement, she also agreed to pay $38,843.00 in restitution. 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 case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Fairmont Man Sentenced to 41 Months in Prison for Cocaine DistributionRead 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 Fairmont, West Virginia man was sentenced to 41 months in prison for distributing crack cocaine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Desean Aaron, 24, pled guilty in April 2014 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base” after an investigation by the Three Rivers Drug Task Force. Aaron, who is currently incarcerated at the North Central Regional Jail in Greenwood, West Virginia, will be given credit for time served since February 2014.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Clarksburg Man Sentenced for Unlawful Possession of FirearmRead 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 Clarksburg, West Virginia man with a prior felony drug conviction was sentenced in federal court for unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
During a June 2013 traffic stop by the Morgantown Police Department, Petrus Hawkins, 35, was discovered in possession of a .45 caliber pistol. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearm” and was sentenced to 46 months in prison.
Hawkins was convicted in March 2009 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia of the felony offense of attempting to possess with intent to distribute marijuana near the Gilmer County High School Football Field in Glenville, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the investigation.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.