Northern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Berkeley County Couple Charged with Tax EvasionRead 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 Falling Waters, West Virginia couple was charged with failing to pay nearly $120,000.00 in federal income taxes, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
In a ten-count information filed today, Frank J. Picone, 48, and Toni A. Picone, 43, were each charged with five counts of “Failure to File a Personal Income Tax Return.” An Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation inquiry revealed that the couple failed to file personal income tax returns for tax years 2008 through 2012.
The defendants, who own Rocky’s New York Pizza in Hagerstown, Maryland, each face up to one year 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
An information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Wheeling Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Possessing Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Wilbur W. Barr, IV, 22, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for possession of a stolen firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Barr pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of "Possession of a Stolen Firearm" after he was discovered in possession of a stolen 9mm pistol that he received in exchange for methamphetamine. The pistol was originally reported stolen in Marshall County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Ohio and Marshall County Sheriff's Departments, and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
West Virginia Man Sentenced for 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 SpecialistELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Convicted sex offender Charles D. Abrams, Jr., 33, was sentenced to one year and one day in prison for failure to update his sex offender registration, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Abrams was convicted in June 2001 in Norfolk, Virginia of carnal knowledge of a minor. In early 2014, Abrams relocated from Marlinton, West Virginia to Virginia Beach, Virginia and failed to update his sex offender registration. He pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration” after an investigation by the West Virginia State Police and the United States Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Three Sentenced for 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 – Three Clarksburg area men, including a former Harrison County Process Server, were sentenced for collaborating to distribute oxycodone, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Former Harrison County Sheriff’s Department Process Server Jason Marple, 36, of Clarksburg, was sentenced to 21 months for distributing oxycodone near the Clarksburg City Park – North View playground and an additional 60 months because he was in possession of a firearm at the time. These sentences will run consecutively for a total of 81 months in prison. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone within 1000’ of a Protected Location – Aiding and Abetting,” and one count of “Possession/Use/Carrying of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.”
Russell Powers, 50, of Clarksburg, was sentenced to 21 months in prison. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone – Aiding and Abetting.”
Chad Alton Register, 32, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison. He pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone – Aiding and Abetting.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The investigation was led by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Martinsburg Man 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 SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eddie Young, III, 40, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was convicted for his role in a drug trafficking ring, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Young pled guilty today to one count of “Use of Telephone to Facilitate Distribution of Cocaine Base” after an investigation by the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force. He faces up to eight 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. Attorneys Jarod Douglas and Anna Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Two Wheeling Area Men Indicted on Firearms 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 – A federal grand jury returned indictments charging two Wheeling area residents with unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Convicted felon Melvin B. Neff, 56, of Wheeling, West Virginia, is charged with one count of “Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm” after he was discovered in possession of five rifles, two shotguns, and a pistol. Neff was previously convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Washington County Pennsylvania for violating the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act.
Convicted felon Zachary M. Foster, 22, of Triadelphia, West Virginia, is charged with one count of “Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm” after he was discovered in possession of two revolvers. Foster was previously convicted in the Circuit Court of Ohio County, West Virginia of the felony offense of Attempted Burglary.
Neff and Foster each face 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 defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Vogrin is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Wheeling Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are leading the investigations.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two FCI Gilmer Inmates Convicted of Unlawful Possession of HeroinRead 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 inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution, Gilmer were convicted and sentenced after they were discovered in possession of heroin, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Antonio Whitehead, 27, of Macon, Georgia, and Brian Carnegie, 29, of Cleveland, Ohio, each pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object - Heroin” after an investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Special Investigative Services Unit at FCI Gilmer. Whitehead and Carnegie, who are both currently incarcerated on drug trafficking charges, were each sentenced to an additional six months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Morgantown Man Charged with Multiple 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 – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Arthur Sean Warner, 43, of Morgantown, West Virginia, with multiple drug trafficking offenses, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Warner is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana” after an investigation led by the Mon Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.
Warner faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00 for each of the cocaine charges and up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00 for the marijuana charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Inmate Charged with Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Tobias Lynn Bennett, 41, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, with witness tampering, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Bennett is charged with two counts of “Witness Tampering – Aiding and Abetting.” A West Virginia State Police investigation revealed that, while incarcerated at the Tygart Valley Regional Jail in Belington, West Virginia, Bennett discouraged two potential witnesses from testifying at a fellow inmate’s sentencing hearing.
Bennett faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for each charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Lewis County Man Sentenced for 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 – Shane Brantley, 38, of Lewis County, West Virginia, was sentenced for his role in distributing prescription painkillers through the office of Dr. Edita Milan, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Brantley, who is currently serving a 51 month sentence for unlawful possession of a firearm, was sentenced to an additional 8 months in prison.
Brantley pled guilty in June 201 4 to one count of “Conspiracy to use the DEA Registration Number of Another Person” after a Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force investigation revealed that he used Dr. Milan’s DEA registration number to obtain oxycodone, hydrocodone, and alprazolam. The investigation began with citizen complaints surrounding prescription writing practices in Dr. Milan’s Bridgeport, West Virginia office. Milan is scheduled for trial on November 5, 2014.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided
Former USP Hazelton Inmates Sentenced for Assaulting Inmate and 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 – Two former inmates at the United States Penitentiary in Hazelton, West Virginia were sentenced to additional time in prison for assaulting a fellow inmate and a correctional officer, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
John David Pinke, 36, and Edward C. Crow, 44, were each sentenced to an additional 275 months in prison and ordered to pay $281,548.47 in restitution for assaulting a fellow inmate. Crow was also sentenced to an additional 240 months in prison for assaulting a correctional officer. Crow’s sentences will run consecutively. Both Pinke and Crow are currently incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution, Gilmer.
In January 2013, Pinke and Crow assaulted a fellow USP Hazelton inmate in one of the prison’s recreational areas. The victim suffered stab wounds from razor blades, broken bones, and cognitive impairment. A federal jury found both Pinke and Crow guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Assault with Intent to Commit Murder,” one count of “Assault with Intent to Commit Murder – Aiding and Abetting,” one count of “Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm,” and one count of “Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.” The jury also found Crow guilty of one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object – Weapon.”
In a separate April 2013 incident, Crow used a handcrafted spear to stab a correctional officer through the food slot in his cell door. A federal jury found Crow guilty of one count of “Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding Certain Officers or Employees,” one count of “Assault With a Dangerous Weapon With Intent to Do Bodily Harm,” and one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object – Weapon.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar and former Assistant United States Attorney Brandon Flower prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Special Investigative Staff at USP Hazelton led the investigations.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
West Virginia Couple Guilty of Stealing from Elderly Victim to Purchase Beach HouseRead 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 Wetzel County couple was convicted in federal court of stealing nearly $400,000.00 from a 90-year-old victim in order to purchase a vacation home in the Outer Banks, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Following a 3 day trial, Timothy Summers, 67, and Lea Ann Summers, 52, of Proctor, West Virginia, were found guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, four counts of mail fraud, one count of securities fraud, and one count of interstate transportation of stolen property.
Evidence presented at trial showed that the couple collaborated to liquidate a significant portion of the victim’s investment holdings in PPG Industries stock. In late 2013, Lea Ann Summers called the stock holding company, Computershare, impersonating the victim, and sold 2,175 shares of PPG Industries stock.
Mrs. Summers then arranged for the proceeds of the sale, approximately $397,030.15, to be sent to herself rather than the victim. Timothy Summers deposited the proceeds and transferred the money into a bank account which he shared only with his wife. The couple then travelled to North Carolina and purchased a beach house in the Outer Banks for $243,173.61.
The couple faces up to 20 years in prison for each of the five mail fraud counts, up to 20 years in prison for the securities fraud count, and up to 10 years in prison for the interstate transportation of stolen property count. They also face a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the seven counts. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Perri and Michael Stein prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Upshur County Man Conceals Armed Robbery Suspect, Sentenced to Four Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dustin Tyler Moore, 24, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced to four months in prison after he harbored and concealed a wanted armed robbery suspect, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Moore pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Concealing Person from Arrest” after a United States Marshals Service investigation revealed that Moore used his vehicle to transport an armed robbery suspect for whom the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department had obtained a felony arrest warrant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Two Virginia Men Sentenced on Firearms ChargesRead 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 Virginia men with prior felony convictions were sentenced in federal court for unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
In late 2013, convicted felons Micky Knight Matheson, 34, and Joshua Thomas Smith, 30, both of Winchester, Virginia, pawned four shotguns and a rifle near Martinsburg, West Virginia.
Smith was sentenced to 80 months in prison. He was previously convicted of the felony offense of distribution of cocaine in the Circuit Court for the City of Winchester, Virginia. Matheson was sentenced to 57 months in prison. He was previously convicted of the felony offenses of credit card theft, robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, forgery, uttering, and credit card fraud in the Circuit Court for the City of Winchester, Virginia.
Smith and Matheson each pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm” after an investigation led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Two Sentenced on Theft, Fraud ChargesRead 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 Martinsburg area women were sentenced in federal court on theft and fraud charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Brenda Carmody, 49, of Bunker Hill, West Virginia, was sentenced to three years of probation and a $500.00 fine after she stole more than $2,000.00 while employed at the Rippon, WV Post Office. Carmody pled guilty to one count of “Misappropriation of Postal Funds” in July 2014 after a United States Postal Inspection Service investigation revealed that she stole monies from a cash drawer and post office box rental fees totaling $2,031.91.
Martina Roberts, 41, of Martinsburg, was sentenced to two years of probation after she filed for personal bankruptcy and subsequently forged the bankruptcy trustee’s signature to authorize a line of credit to purchase a new car. Roberts pled guilty to one count of “Bankruptcy Fraud – Falsification of Documents” in July 2014.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Perri prosecuted Carmody and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted Roberts on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Two 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 SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Martinsburg area men were sentenced in federal court on drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Delmar Hoza Curry, 33, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 10 months in prison and six months of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine. Curry pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base” following an investigation led by the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
John Earl Mitchell, 29, of Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia, was sentenced to time served since June 2014 and five years of supervised release for his role in distributing crack cocaine and Methylone, an amphetamine, near Martinsburg, West Virginia. Mitchell pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of “Drug Conspiracy” after an investigation led by the Martinsburg Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Two FCI Morgantown Inmates Convicted of Possessing ContrabandRead 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 inmates at the Federal Correctional Institute, Morgantown were convicted and sentenced in federal court for possession of prohibited objects, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
James Robinson, 42, pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object” after he was discovered in possession of marijuana while incarcerated at FCI Morgantown. Robinson was sentenced to an additional four months in prison.
Dominick Jordan, 34, pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object” after he was discovered in possession of a cell phone while incarcerated at FCI Morgantown. Jordan was sentenced to an additional three months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. Both cases were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Special Investigative Services Unit at FCI Morgantown.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided in the Jordan case. U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided in the Robinson case.
Ohio Man and Two Wheeling Natives Charged with Cocaine 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 – Samuel J. Pete, 28 of Youngstown, Ohio, Krista D. Dennis, 28, and Patrick A. Groves, 24, both of Wheeling, West Virginia, were indicted by a federal grand jury on multiple drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
The indictment charges the defendants with numerous counts of distributing crack cocaine within 1,000 feet of various protected locations including Bishop Donahue High School in McMechen as well as West Virginia Northern Community College and Ritchie Elementary School in Wheeling. Pete (5 counts), Dennis (4 counts), and Groves (3 counts), each face up to
40 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00 for each count.The indictment charges all three defendants with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute crack cocaine for which they each face up to 20 years in prison and fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
Pete is also charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McWilliams is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The case is being investigated by the Marshall County Drug Task Force and the Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, both HIDTA-funded initiatives.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Georgia Man Charged with 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 – Terrence D. Brawner, a 32-year-old Georgia native, was indicted by a federal grand jury and arrested on multiple drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
According to the indictment, Brawner repeatedly distributed heroin and crack cocaine within 1,000 feet of St. Michael’s Elementary School and Wheeling Central Catholic High School in Wheeling, West Virginia. Brawner is charged with three counts of distributing crack cocaine near a protected location, three counts of distributing heroin near a protected location, and one count of aiding and abetting the distribution of heroin near a protected location. He faces up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00 for each of these seven charges.
Brawner is also charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute oxycodone in and around New Martinsville, West Virginia for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McWilliams is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. An investigation by the West Virginia State Police and the Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime task force led to Brawner’s indictment and arrest.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former WV Division of Highways Supervisor Convicted in State CourtRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistBUCKHANNON, WEST VIRGINIA – Former West Virginia Division of Highways supervisor Barry D. Thompson, 49, of Mr. Clare, West Virginia, admitted that he lied to the State Police, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Today in the Magistrate Court of Upshur County, Thompson entered guilty pleas to two counts of providing false information to a West Virginia State Trooper. Thompson, who is presently under federal indictment for lying to a federal agent, has agreed to cooperate with federal authorities in their ongoing investigation into the WV Division of Highways Equipment Division. If Thompson fully cooperates, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will dismiss the pending federal indictment.
During the federal investigation into the Division of Highways, Thompson denied any knowledge that state employees had misused state resources to repair vehicles that were no longer owned by the state. However, Thompson admitted today that he instructed at least one state employee, at state expense and on state time, to repair a dump truck that had previously been sold at public auction. Thompson was also present when a state employee was directed to travel in his state issued vehicle, on state time, to purchase a replacement muffler for the aforementioned dump truck. The muffler did not fit and Thompson exchanged it, receiving a refund for the returned muffler. Both mufflers were sold at a discounted rate normally provided to the Division of Highways.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Public Corruption Unit. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, State Police, and State Commission on Special Investigations led the inquiry. Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Parr prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Upshur County Magistrate Juanita Adams sentenced Thompson to one year of probation.
To report public corruption in your community, call the West Virginia Public Corruption Hotline at 855-WVA-FEDS or email [email protected].
FBI, U.S. Marshals Continue Search for Convicted Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshals Service are leading the continued effort to locate convicted sex offender Mustafa Bazbaz who absconded earlier this month, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Leveraging their investigative resources and following all credible leads, the FBI and U.S. Marshals are doing everything they can to locate Bazbaz, 28, of Pittsburgh, who was under electronic monitoring in Western Pennsylvania pending sentencing when he was granted permission to leave his home to attend a worship session. He failed to return, prompting the current manhunt.
Bazbaz pled guilty in August 2014 to charges that he travelled across states lines to a Hancock County, West Virginia hotel in December 2013 and engaged in sexual conduct with a 15-year old female from Jefferson County, Ohio.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Bazbaz is encouraged to contact Chad Simpson at the United States Marshals Service at 304-218-9286 or the FBI at 412-432-4000. Callers can remain anonymous.
Pennsylvania Man Convicted of Selling Cocaine in BridgeportRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Mario Walton, a 33 year old Homewood, Pennsylvania native, pled guilty this week to selling crack cocaine in Bridgeport, West Virginia, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Walton faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
An investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force led to the prosecution of Walton. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Four Sentenced for 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 – Four Northern West Virginia residents were sentenced for cocaine related offenses, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Kenneth An'bon Wang, 28, of Martinsburg, West Virginia was sentenced to 41 months in prison for distributing crack cocaine. Wang pled guilty in March 2014 after an investigation led by the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force.
Troy Aaron Wilt, 31, was sentenced to 10 months in prison for distributing cocaine. Paul Harland Ellis, 35, was sentenced to five years of probation for money laundering transactions involving roughly $1,500.00 in proceeds from cocaine sales. Wilt and Ellis, both of Keyser, West Virginia, pled guilty after an investigation led by the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crime Task Force.
Colleen Eugene Lowe, 49, of Martinsburg, was sentenced to five years of probation for possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine. Lowe pled guilty in July 2014 after an investigation led by the Martinsburg Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Fairmont Man Convicted for Selling Cocaine Near Housing Authority Apartment BuildingRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Fairmont resident Claude Jones, 29, pled guilty Wednesday to distributing cocaine within 1,000 feet of a protected location, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Jones faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00 for selling cocaine within 1,000 feet of the Willow Ridge Apartments, a Fairmont housing facility owned by a public housing authority.
An investigation by the Three Rivers Drug Task Force led to the prosecution of Jones. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Clarksburg Woman Convicted of Distributing Painkillers Near 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 – Amber McCormick, 29, of Clarksburg, pled guilty to distributing Oxycodone within 1,000 feet of the Harrison Street Playground in Clarksburg, West Virginia, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
McCormick faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00.
McCormick pled guilty after an investigation by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Taskforce. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Ohio Man with Prior Felony Drug Conviction Discovered with Firearm in West Virginia, Sentenced to 10 Years 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 – Stedmund Creech, a 25 year old Steubenville Ohio native with a prior felony drug conviction, was sentenced to ten years in prison after he was discovered in the Wheeling, West Virginia area in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Creech was previously convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Jefferson County Ohio of the felony offense of drug trafficking with juvenile specification, possession of crack cocaine, and felonious assault.
As part of the current sentence, Creech must also forfeit his Taurus .40 caliber firearm, pay a $100 special assessment fee, and serve three years of supervised release.
Creech pled guilty in February 2014 after an investigation led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Federal Inmate Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murdering Another InmateRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Federal inmate Kevin Marquette Bellinger, a former resident of Washington, D.C., and an inmate at the United States Penitentiary in Hazelton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to life in prison for the murder of another inmate.
U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, for the Northern District of West Virginia and Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley of the Northern District of West Virginia.
Bellinger was convicted by a federal jury on June 16, 2014, of one count of murder by a federal prisoner serving a life sentence and one count of second degree murder in a federal facility for his role in the Oct. 7, 2007, murder of inmate Jesse Harris.
According to evidence presented at trial, during a move of inmates from the recreation yard back to their cells, Bellinger and a co-defendant left the yard ahead of the others and traveled to an intersection of two corridors in the prison facility, where they confronted Harris and stabbed him with shanks in an orchestrated attack. In less than a minute, an officer approached, and the attackers fled. Officers apprehended Bellinger after a short pursuit, but they did not recover his weapon. Surveillance footage of the attack showed Bellinger and his co-defendant engaged in a verbal exchange with Harris, followed by the two attackers wielding weapons and assaulting Harris, who was unarmed and backing away from them.
At the time of the murder, Bellinger was serving a life sentence for an assault with intent to kill that took place in 2000.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Flower of the Northern District of West Virginia and Trial Attorney Richard Burns from the Criminal Division’s Capital Case Section.
Three Sentenced in Painkiller 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 – Three co-defendants of Dr. Edita Milan were sentenced Tuesday for their role in a conspiracy to distribute prescription pills through the doctor’s office, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Lois Crites, 50, of Fairmont served as the doctor’s office manager from August 2010 until the office was closed in June 2013 after the execution of numerous federal search warrants. Crites pled guilty in June 2014 to conspiracy to distribute Schedule II and III controlled substances. Crites was sentenced to 24 months in prison and three years of supervised release.
Lois Crites’ son, Daniel J. Quirk, 30, also of Fairmont, pled guilty in June 2014 to distributing hydrocodone. He was sentenced to 12 months incarceration with six months to be served in prison followed by six months of home detention and 2 years of supervised release.
A third co-defendant, Brandi Mayo, 30, of Weston pled guilty in June 2014 to June 2014 plea to using a communication facility to illegally obtain hydrocodone. Mayo was sentenced to one year probation with eight months to be served on home confinement with electronic monitoring.
The convictions were the result of a 2 ½ yearlong investigation led by the Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force, which began with citizen complaints of the prescription writing practice of Dr. Milan from her Bridgeport, West Virginia office. Crites admitted her involvement with distributing more than 400 oxycodone pills and 25,000 hydrocodone pills through the doctor’s office. Dr. Milan is scheduled for trial on November 5, 2014.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Martinsburg Man Sentenced to 151 Months in Prison for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that 34 year old machine operator and Martinsburg resident DAVID CULLEN was sentenced Monday to 151 months in prison and three years of supervised release for distribution of heroin. CULLEN was also ordered to pay a special assessment fee of $100.
During an investigation led by the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, CULLEN misled authorities when he originally agreed to make a series of controlled purchases on behalf of the Task Force, but instead, bought heroin for personal use and gave officers a counterfeit substance. CULLEN pled guilty to distribution of a controlled substance on June 3, 2014.
“We continue to support the efforts of the Drug & Violent Crime Task Force to aggressively investigate heroin sales in the Eastern Panhandle,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “We are confident that law enforcement officials and residents can work collaboratively to minimize drug use and promote safety in our region.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti. U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Four Convicted of 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 – Four Martinsburg area residents pled guilty to heroin trafficking in Federal court Monday, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Kimberly Michelle Bailey, 32, of Petersburg, West Virginia, and Brandy Renee Netz, 29, of Martinsburg, West Virginia pled guilty to distributing heroin. Brenda Michelle Sams, 34, of Petersburg, West Virginia, pled guilty to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin. Derwin Lee Harris, 48, of Martinsburg, pled guilty to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine and heroin.
Investigations led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, and the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force since February 2011 culminated in the convictions of Bailey, Nets, and Sams. An investigation led by the Martinsburg Police Department since July 2013 led to Harris’ conviction.
Each defendant faces up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment fee, and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Airline Pilot Convicted of Sex Offense on the RunRead 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 commercial airline pilot from Pittsburgh who was recently convicted of a Federal sex crime is now a fugitive from justice, according to United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II.
MUSTAFA BAZBAZ, who pled guilty in August to the felony offense of “Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct”, was out on bond and under electronic monitoring in Western Pennsylvania until last week. On Friday evening he was permitted to leave his home to attend a worship service but never returned and thus a warrant was issued for his arrest. Bazbaz, who is 28 years of age, has been on the run since Friday evening at approximately 6 p.m. He was last seen driving a silver Buick Century automobile with California License Plate Number 6YUTO65.
“The hunt for Mr. Bazbaz is unique in that he’s a trained pilot, he comes from a wealthy family with substantial means, he’s a convicted child predator, and he faces a lengthy prison sentence once he’s captured,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “We need the public’s help to track him down before he harms anyone else.”
At the August plea hearing Bazbaz admitted to communicating with a 15-year old female from Jefferson County, Ohio, in December of 2013 via the website known as MeetMe.com. He misrepresented his age and name to the victim, claiming to be 17 years old and to be named “Mike B.” Bazbaz sent sexually explicit images of himself to the victim before arranging to pick her up in her home in Jefferson County in December of 2013. He then took the victim to a hotel room in Hancock County where they engaged in sexual intercourse. At the time of the incident Bazbaz was employed as a pilot with Republic Airways in Pittsburgh.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Bazbaz should contact Chad Simpson at the United States Marshals Service at 304-218-9286.Martinsburg Man Charged in Heroin Death CaseRead 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 West Virginia man has been indicted for allegedly delivering heroin that caused the death of a Berkeley County man.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that Keith WATSON, age 35 of Martinsburg, has been charged with “Distribution of Heroin” that led to the death of a 37-year old man in April of 2014. Because the delivery of heroin is alleged to have caused the death of another WATSON faces up to life in prison.
“Drug overdoses have become all too common in the Eastern Panhandle, especially those caused by heroin,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “Whenever we can prove who supplied the drugs that caused an overdose or overdose death then we’ll be aggressive in prosecuting those responsible.”
WATSON is in custody at the Eastern Regional Jail and will appear for an arraignment in U.S. Magistrate Court today.
The case was investigated by the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jarod J. Douglas. The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Trans Energy Convicted of Clean Water Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Trans Energy, Inc. entered guilty pleas to three violations of the Clean Water Act in connection with its natural gas drilling activity in Northern West Virginia, according to United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II.
Trans Energy pled guilty this afternoon to three counts of “Negligent Discharge of Pollutants without a Permit,” admitting that it dumped pollutants into waterways found in Marshall County, West Virginia. The company agreed that it discharged materials such as rock, sand, soil and stone into streams at Wolf Run, the North Fork of Grave Creek, and the Left Fork of Maggoty Run, all for the purpose of creating impoundments. The water from the impoundments was subsequently used by Trans Energy for Marcellus Shale drilling activity. Trans Energy admitted that it failed to properly train and supervise its employees and that it relied upon the unsubstantiated representations of a nearby property owner when determining whether environmental laws were being followed.
“Altering wetlands can significantly impact water quality and wildlife,” said David G. McLeod, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in West Virginia. “By holding violators accountable, EPA is protecting valuable wetlands as well as the communities around them. This case is a direct result of the strong working relationship between our federal and state enforcement partners.”
The plea agreement calls for Trans Energy to pay a fine of $200,000 for each conviction, for a total fine of $600,000. It also requires that Trans Energy be placed onto probation for two years and be under the supervision of the Court during that time period. The parties agreed that separate violations committed by Trans Energy and occurring in connection with two other impoundments constructed in Marshall County would be addressed by civil penalties.
John G. Corp, President of Trans Energy, signed the plea agreement on behalf of the company, which was formed and organized pursuant to the laws of the State of Nevada.
The Clean Water Act, also known as the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, was enacted by Congress to restore and maintain the integrity of the Nation’s waters. It prohibits the discharge of any pollutant from a point source into the waters of the United States without a permit. Discharges of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States are prohibited unless authorized by a permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division. It is being prosecuted by David J. Perri, Assistant United States Attorney, and Perry D. McDaniel, Special Assistant United States Attorney.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Community Leaders to Create Ohio Valley Addiction Action PlanRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Community leaders from Northern West Virginia have joined forces to attack the problem of drug addiction in the Ohio Valley.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, and Judge David J. Sims of West Virginia’s First Judicial Circuit announced the formation of a working group to address the issue of addiction as well as the large number of drug overdoses that are occurring in the region. Ihlenfeld and Sims are serving as co-chairpersons of the group, which has been in operation since July and will present a final addiction action plan to the community in December.
The working group is comprised of officials from a variety of fields, including education, law enforcement, healthcare, rehabilitation, business, legislative, treatment, recovery, and the news media. Subcommittee meetings took place in August and September and will continue throughout the fall.
According to Ihlenfeld, the goals of the group include preventing people from using heroin, helping treat those who have become addicted to heroin, opioids and other drugs, choking off the supply of heroin to the region, and working collaboratively to make the Ohio Valley stronger, safer, and healthier. If the plan is successful it will be implemented in other parts of the state and region.
“Drug abuse has become a public health crisis in the region and so we’ve gathered passionate and talented leaders from multiple disciplines to push back against addiction,” said Ihlenfeld. “This is a problem that impacts everyone in the Valley in some way and so we must work together. Based upon work that the group has already done, I’m optimistic that we’ll find a formula that works.”
Judge Sims stressed the importance of collaboration when taking on a task of this nature.
“It has become clear to me through my work as a judge that a multi-pronged approach is necessary if we’re going to loosen the tight grip that addiction has upon our communities,” said Judge Sims. “Hopefully, by bringing together the various skills of the people that make up this working group, we’ll make a real difference and save lives.”
Members of the Ohio Valley Addiction Action Plan Working Group are as follows:
William J. Ihlenfeld, II, United States Attorney & Co-Chairperson of working group;
Hon. David J. Sims, Judge, First Judicial Circuit & Co-Chairperson of working group;
Dr. Angelo Georges, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Wheeling Hospital, Chairperson of Medical Subcommittee;
Dr. Dianna Vargo, Superintendent, Ohio County Schools, Chairperson of Education Subcommittee;
Del. Erikka Storch, W.Va. House of Delegates, Chairperson of Business & Legislative Subcommittee;
Sheriff Chuck Jackson, Brooke County Sheriff’s Department, Chairperson of Law Enforcement Subcommittee;
Mark A. Games, President/CEO, Northwood Health Systems, Co-Chair, Mental Health/Substance Abuse Treatment Subcommittee;
Terry Stemple, Chief Executive Officer, Healthways, Inc., Co-Chair, Mental Health/Substance Abuse Treatment Subcommittee;
James Lee, Retired Chief Probation Officer, First Judicial Circuit, Chairperson of Community Corrections Subcommittee;
Brenda Danehart, News Director, WTRF, Chairperson of News Media Subcommittee;
Patti Barnabei, Founder, Never Alone West Virginia, Chairperson of Support Group Subcommittee.###Ranson Resident Indicted on Crack Cocaine ChargesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistFederal Grand Jury also returns two additional indictments
MARTINSBURG, WV – United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that an investigation by the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force has led to a federal indictment being returned.
Armistead William CRAIG a/k/a “Armstead William Craig,” a/k/a “Manny,” a/k/a “MANNY MOO,” 35, of Ranson, West Virginia, was named in a one-count Indictment charging him with “Distribution of Crack Cocaine.” CRAIG, who is currently in federal custody serving a revocation of his supervised release, faces up to 20 years in prison on this charge. This case will be prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas.
In two separate cases:
Victor HERRERA, 48, an inmate at USP Hazelton, was named in a two-count Indictment charging him with “Conspiracy to Commit Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm” and “Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm.” HERRERA faces up to five years in prison on the conspiracy charge and ten years in prison on the assault charge. This case was investigated by the Special Investigative Services Unit at USP Hazelton.
Julio Ruiz-De Los SANTOS, 26, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was named in a one-count Indictment charging him with “Re-Entry of Removed Alien.” The Indictment alleges that SANTOS was found in the United States after having previously been deported and had not obtained the consent of the Attorney General for admission into the United States. SANTOS faces up to two years in prison. This case was investigated by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (ICE/HSI).
The HERRERA and SANTOS cases will be prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn A. Morgan.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Doctor Indicted for Illegal Distribution of PainkillersRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A West Virginia physician has been indicted on charges that she prescribed prescription painkillers outside the scope of her professional practice.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that Dr. Tressie M. DUFFY, age 44 of Martinsburg, W. Va., was indicted on 100 felony counts alleging that she aided and abetted the distribution of narcotic controlled substances. The indictment asserts that DUFFY signed blank prescription orders and then allowed employees at her medical practice to issue the prescriptions without being seen by a physician, all in violation of Federal law. DUFFY is alleged to have issued 157 prescriptions for controlled substances to 96 patients outside the course of professional practice.
DUFFY is engaged in the practice of medicine under the business name of “West Virginia Weight and Wellness, Inc.” She was indicted along with Amanda CLARK, age 29 of Martinsburg, an office assistant at West Virginia Weight & Wellness, and Tracie COLBERT, age 33 of Martinsburg, an employee of AIT Laboratories. DUFFY, CLARK, and COLBERT are each alleged to have aided and abetted the distribution of Oxycodone, Oxymorphone, Methadone, and Methylphenidate, HCL, all Schedule II controlled substances.
DUFFY and her co-defendants face up to twenty years in prison on each count, along with a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of each defendant. The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The case will be prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti and was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Pharmacist Convicted on Drug Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistDefendant faces up to 44 years incarceration, will forfeit pharmacy license
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A West Virginia pharmacist has been convicted on charges that he dispensed prescription painkillers outside the scope of his professional practice.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II announced that Mario BLOUNT, 51 of Bridgeport, W. Va., entered guilty pleas today to the felony offenses of “Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II Controlled Substances”, “Distribution of Oxymorphone”, and “False or Fraudulent Material Omissions.”
BLOUNT, who was employed by Best Care Pharmacy at the time of the crimes, admitted that he conspired with Angela Davis and April Davis between 2011 and 2014 to distribute prescription painkillers for non-legitimate medical purposes. BLOUNT also admitted that he failed to report the filling of a prescription for oxymorphone for Angela Davis in June of 2013, and that he illegally distributed oxymorphone pills to her in September of 2013.
According to evidence offered at the plea hearing, BLOUNT’s pharmacy practice was outside the course of professional practice, leading to duplicate and excessive quantities of controlled substances being supplied. BLOUNT also supplied controlled substances that were contraindicated, and he accepted a prescription that he knew to be fraudulent for a person that he knew to be deceased. The decedent for whom the prescription was written was the late son of Angela Davis.
The investigation into BLOUNT began when it was discovered that he filled a significant number of prescriptions for patients of Dr. Edita Milan, a Bridgeport physician who is under Federal indictment on charges similar to BLOUNT’s. The Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force executed search warrants in October of 2013 at Best Care Pharmacy locations in the West Virginia towns of Bridgeport, Lumberport and Belington. The evidence gathered during those searches was used to bring charges against BLOUNT and his co-conspirators.
Angela Davis and April Davis, who are mother and daughter, are scheduled to be in court on September 23 for plea hearings. Milan is scheduled for trial on November 5.
As part of the plea agreement BLOUNT must relinquish his West Virginia Board of Pharmacy license and he is prohibited from applying for its reinstatement.
BLOUNT faces up to forty-four years in prison, a fine of up to $2,500,000, and three years of supervised release. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of BLOUNT.
The Task Force includes agents and officers from the Bridgeport Police Department, the Clarksburg Police Department, the West Virginia State Police – Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Parr with assistance from U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld.U.S. District Judge Irene Keeley presided.
West Virginia Man Sentenced to 15 Years on Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Lost Creek, West Virginia man, with three prior felony convictions has been sentenced to Federal prison for possessing a gun.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that Anthony Scott MOATS, age 40, of Lost Creek, was sentenced to 15 years in prison as a result of his conviction for “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” MOATS, who has prior felony convictions for burglary, drug distribution, and bank theft, possessed a firearm in September of 2013 in Monongalia County. MOATS was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Marshals Service.
In other matters, Troy EVANS, age 38, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 60 months in prison and three years of supervised release for “Possession with Intent to Distribute Crack Cocaine” in Monongalia County, West Virginia. EVANS was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal.
Steven JIMERSON, age 26, of East Point, Michigan, was sentenced to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release for “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone” in Monongalia County. JIMERSON was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal.
The EVANS and JIMERSON cases were investigated by the Mon Valley Drug Task Force.
These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley.
Charles ADKINS, age 54, of Fairmont, West Virginia, entered pleas of guilty to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration” and one count of “Obstruction of Justice.” ADKINS was sentenced to 51 months in prison and five years of supervised release. ADKINS’ co-defendant Loretta MEREDITH, age 58, of Jamestown, New York, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in prison and one year of supervised release for “Conspiracy to Attempt to Obstruct Justice.” ADKINS was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal and MEREDITH is free on bond and will self-report to prison. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn A. Morgan and investigated by the United States Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police.
Duane Philip MCATEE, age 44, of Salem, West Virginia, was sentenced to 35 months in prison and one year of supervised release for “Obstruction of Tax Administration.” MCATEE was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti and investigated by the Internal Revenue Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Lisa Nicole SMITH, age 25, of Fairmont, was sentenced to six months in prison and six months of home detention for “Possession of Pseudoephedrine to be used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.” SMITH, who is free on bond, will self-report to prison. This case was prosecuted by former Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Flower and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin and investigated by the Three Rivers Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.Gary Allen STEWART, age 31, of Sutton, West Virginia, was sentenced to 4 months in prison and one year of supervised release for “Obstruction of Correspondence.” STEWART, who is free on bond, will self-report to prison. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri and investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Office of Inspector General.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.W.Va. Man Sentenced to 15 Years on Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA - A Belington, West Virginia man has been sentenced to fifteen years in Federal prison after being convicted of possessing sexually explicit images of children.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that Charles Edgar WARE, age 64, was sentenced to 180 months in prison for “Possession of Child Pornography, Second Offense.” WARE, who had a previous felony for mailing material involving the sexual exploitation of minors, was convicted of possessing child pornography that had been transported via his computer. WARE was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal. After serving his sentence WARE will be subject to ten years of supervised release.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin handled the matter for the government and the investigation was conducted by the Bridgeport, West Virginia, Police Department.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Six Individuals Convicted in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Guilty pleas were taken in six criminal cases in Clarksburg Federal court, including three for drug trafficking.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that Cherise JONES, age 31, of Fairmont, West Virginia, entered a plea of guilty to “Distribution of Crack Cocaine within 1,000 feet of Maple Avenue Apartments.” JONES, who is free on bond, faces up to 40 years in prison. This case was investigated by the Three Rivers Drug & Violent Crime Task Force.
Paulette LAMB, age 25, of Michigan, entered a plea of guilty to “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.” LAMB, who is in custody pending sentencing, faces up to 20 years in prison.
Jeremell SIMPSON, age 31, of Columbus, Ohio, entered a plea of guilty to “Distribution of Crack Cocaine.” SIMPSON, who is in custody, faces up to 20 years in prison.
The LAMB and SIMPSON cases were investigated by the Mon Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force.
Dustin MOORE, age 24, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, entered a plea of guilty to “Concealing a Person from Arrest.” MOORE, who is free on bond pending sentencing, faces up to 5 years in prison. This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service.
The JONES, LAMB, SIMPSON and MOORE cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley.Thomas CUETO, age 65, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, entered a plea of guilty to “Theft of Government Funds”, admitting that he fraudulently obtaining benefits from the Veterans Administration. CUETO, who is free on bond pending sentencing, faces up to 10 years in prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar and was investigated by the Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General.
Clarence THOMPSON, age 35, of Clarksburg, entered a plea of guilty to “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” THOMPSON, who is currently serving a state parole revocation sentence originating from the Circuit Court of Harrison County, faces up to 10 years in prison. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn A. Morgan and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and the Clarksburg Police Department.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.New York Man Sentenced to 10 Years on Cocaine ChargeRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs Specialist
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A man from New York was sentenced to ten years in federal prison on a cocaine trafficking charge.
Melvin SANDERS, age 56, formerly of New York, was sentenced to 120 months in prison and three years of supervised release for “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine.” SANDERS was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal.
Nine others appeared in Elkins Federal court, including Chad Edward CUTRIGHT, age 29, of Montrose, West Virginia, who was sentenced to 60 months in prison and three years of supervised release for “Possession of Pseudoephedrine to be used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.”
James Allen WARE, age 30, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced to 57 months in prison and three years of supervised release for “Possession of Materials used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.” WARE, who is free on bond, will self-report to prison.
Joshua David CASADA, age 29, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced to 51 months in prison and three years of supervised release for “Possession of Pseudoephedrine to be used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.” CASADA was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal.
Kristin Elaine DYE, age 21, of Buckhannon; Lindsey Parker ROY, age 40, of Elkins, West Virginia; and, Destry Seth POLING, age 27, of Parsons, West Virginia; were sentenced to five years of probation for “Possession of Pseudoephedrine to be used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.”Gary Rudolph LOY, age 41, of Belington, West Virginia, was sentenced to five years of probation for “Manufacture of Methamphetamine.”
Cinda Lou CHAPMAN, age 34, of Maysville, West Virginia, was sentenced to three years of probation for “Theft of Government Money.”
Robert Franklin DAVIS, II, age 35, of Buckhannon, entered a plea of guilty to Possession of Materials used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine. DAVIS, who is free on bond pending sentencing, faces up to 10 years in prison.
These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew R. Cogar, Stephen D. Warner, David J. Perri, Stephen L. Vogrin and Jarod J. Douglas and investigated by the Greater Harrison County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Barbour County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police, the U.S. Forest Service, the Elkins Police Department, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Department and the Tucker County Sheriff’s Dept.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Maryland Men Convicted on Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eight people entered guilty pleas to Federal drug charges in Martinsburg.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that Alan BUTLER, age 57, and Delano Alan BUTLER, age 33, of Hagerstown, Maryland, entered pleas of guilty to “Distribution of Heroin.” Alan BUTLER and Delano BUTLER each face up to 20 years in prison.
Patrice Dominique STEPHENS, age 34, of Westernport, Maryland, entered a plea of guilty to “Distribution of Cocaine.” STEPHENS, who is in custody pending sentencing, faces up to 20 years in prison.
Walter EVANS, age 43, of Martinsburg, entered a plea of guilty to “Possession with Intent to Distribute Crack Cocaine.” EVANS, who is free on bond pending sentencing, faces up to 20 years in prison.
Bradley FRENCH, age 45 and Shawna PERRY, age 18, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, entered pleas of guilty to “Distribution of Heroin.” Co-defendant Theresa PERRY, age 45, of Hedgesville, entered a plea of guilty to “Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premise.” FRENCH and Shawna PERRY, and Theresa PERRY each face up to 20 years in prison.
Dennis Dwayne BUTTS, II, age 38, of Hedgesville, entered a plea of to “Distribution of Heroin.” BUTTS, who is in custody pending sentencing, faces up to 20 years in prison.
In other matters, Jeff CHANEY, age 36, of Burlington, West Virginia, entered a plea of guilty to “Sale of a Firearm to a Felon.” CHANEY, who is free on bond pending sentencing, faces up to 10 years in prison.
Brenda Kaye STAMPER, age 46, of Martinsburg, entered a plea of guilty to “Theft of Government Money” was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $15,312. STAMPER, who is free on bond pending sentencing, faces up to 10 years in prison.
Harold Quiceno RODRIGUEZ, age 36, a citizen of Colombia, entered a plea of guilty to “False Claim to U.S. Citizenship.” RODRIGUEZ, who is in custody pending sentencing, faces up to three years in prison and deportation.
These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul T. Camilletti and Jarod J. Douglas and were investigated by the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force; the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crime Task Force; the Martinsburg Police Department; Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office; Social Security Administration; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (ICE/HIS).
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.Federal Inmates Appear in CourtRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Four Federal prisoners received additional jail time as a result of crimes they committed while behind bars.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that Roberto SOTO, age 51, Gregory PARDO, age 58, Antonio MARTINEZ-PORTA, age 38, and Ahmed JOHNSON, age 42, all inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution at Gilmer, entered pleas of guilty to “Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm.” U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley sentenced PARDO, MARTINEZ-PORTA and JOHNSON to 24 months in prison and SOTO to 30 months in prison to run consecutively to their current Federal sentences. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri for the government.
In a separate matter, Ricardo PIZANA, age 29, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution at Morgantown, entered a plea of guilty to “Possession of a Prohibited Object” and was sentenced to three months in prison. The sentence will run consecutively to his current Federal sentence. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn A. Morgan.
These cases were investigated by the Special Investigative Services Unit at FCI Gilmer and FCI Morgantown.
Fairmont Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA - A Fairmont, West Virginia, man has been sentenced to twenty years in Federal prison on drug charges.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that Lennox BUCKLEY was sentenced to 240 months in prison for “Distribution of Cocaine and more than 50 Kilograms of Marijuana.” BUCKLEY, who was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal, also was ordered to forfeit a 2002 Lexus ES 300 and $7,011 in U.S. Currency.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar and investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the West Virginia State Police-Bureau of Criminal Investigations and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.Three Wheeling Residents Convicted on Painkiller Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Three individuals involved in a large prescription painkiller trafficking ring entered pleas of guilty on Friday in Federal court according to United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II.
Steven L. NAMACK, age 65, entered a plea of guilty to “Distribution of Oxycodone.” NAMACK, who is in custody pending sentencing, faces up to 20 years in prison. As part of his plea, NAMACK will forfeit $2,000 which constitutes proceeds of the illegal activity.
Kristyn Elizabeth FETCKO, age 34, entered a plea of guilty to “Distribution of Oxycodone.” FETCKO, who is free on bond pending sentencing, faces up to 20 years in prison. As part of her plea, FETCKO will forfeit $3,905 which constitutes proceeds of the illegal activity.
Adam W. BARNES, age 40, entered a plea of guilty to “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Oxycodone.” BARNES, who is in custody pending sentencing on bond, faces up to 4 years in prison.
The last remaining defendant in this case, Brian SCHULTZ, is scheduled for trial on September 23, 2014 before U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Parr handled the cases on behalf of the government.
This case was investigated by the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, which includes officers and agents from the Wheeling Police Department, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police-BCI, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force is an Appalachia HITDA-funded initiative.In other court proceedings in Wheeling before Chief Judge John Preston Bailey:
GLENN A. MILLER, age 37, of Moundsville, entered a plea of guilty to “Distribution of Alprazolam within 1,000 feet of a Public Housing Authority.” Miller, who is free on bond pending sentencing, faces up to forty years in prison.
Jodi Howell, age 38, of McMechen, entered a plea of guilty to “Possession of a Controlled Substance.” Howell, who is free on bond, faces up to one year in prison.
These cases was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. and investigated by the Marshall County Drug Task Force, consisting of officers and agents from the Moundsville Police Department, the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The Marshall County Drug Task Force is an Appalachia HITDA-funded initiative.
Two Wheeling Residents Convicted on Painkiller Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs Specialist
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals involved in a large prescription painkiller trafficking ring entered pleas of guilty on Monday in Federal court, according to United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II.
Lucas N. HIGH, age 37, of Wheeling, entered a plea of guilty to the felony offense of “Conspiracy to use a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Cocaine, Oxycodone and Buprenorphine.” HIGH’s criminal conduct occurred between October of 2012 and January of 2014 in the Wheeling area. He is free on bond and faces up to 4 years in prison when sentenced.
Cara OLAKO a/k/a Cara Green, age 36, of Wheeling, entered a plea of guilty to “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine within 1,000 feet of the Patterson Playground.” The transaction that OLAKO admitted to occurred in July of 2013. She is free on bond and faces up to 40 years in prison.
HIGH and OLAKO are part of group of fifteen people indicted in February after a sixteen month investigation into the distribution of oxycodone and other prescription drugs that came to the area from northern Ohio and Detroit, Michigan. Over the course of the investigation thousands of pills were recovered by agents via controlled purchases and court-authorized searches.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Parr handled the cases on behalf of the government. U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., presided.
These matters were investigated by the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, which includes officers and agents from the Wheeling Police Department, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police-BCI, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force is an Appalachia HITDA-funded initiative.Two Convicted on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two people have been convicted of Federal drug charges, according to United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II.
Dorothy Ellen METZ, age 61, of Athens, Georgia, entered a plea of guilty to “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone” in Randolph County, West Virginia. METZ is free on bond pending sentencing and faces up to 20 years in prison. This case was investigated by the Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force.
Beth Harman OURS, age 46, of Petersburg, West Virginia, entered a plea of guilty to “Distribution of Diazepam.” OURS is in custody pending sentencing and faces up to 5 years in prison. This case was investigated by the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crime Task Force.
The cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner. U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.Leader of Cocaine Trafficking Organization Pleads Guilty to Federal ChargeRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – The leader of a large drug trafficking organization was convicted in Federal court and now faces a lengthy prison sentence.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that Cedric Malachi Jones a/k/a “BG,” age 33, of South Ozone Park, New York, and formerly of Palm Coast, Florida, entered a plea of guilty to “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine.” At the request of the government Jones remains in custody pending sentencing, at which time he will face up to 20 years in prison.
JONES was the leader of a group that caused controlled substances to be transported from other parts of the country to Keyser, West Virginia, for redistribution. The case was investigated by the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, which consists of officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Virginia State Police - Bureau of Criminal Investigations.
This prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jarod J. Douglas. It was investigated by the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, which consists of officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Virginia State Police - Bureau of Criminal Investigations.
In other matters before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble, Adrian Nicholas Sanchez a/k/a “ACE,” age 30, of Cumberland, Maryland and Christopher Lee Redman, age 30, entered pleas of guilty to “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine.” Sanchez and Redman will forfeit $5,661 as well as pay a $90,000 money judgment. Sanchez and Redman are in custody pending sentencing and face up to 20 years in prison.Ebony Ishia Haynes Jack, age 33, of South Ozone Park, New York, formerly of Palm Coast, Florida, entered a plea of guilty to “Money Laundering Conspiracy.” Jack is free on bond and faces up to 20 years in prison.
James Willard Johnson, age 39, of Martinsburg, entered a plea of guilty to “Distribution of Crack Cocaine.” Johnson is in custody pending sentencing and faces up to 20 years in prison.
Navarre Sowell, age 38, of Hagerstown, Maryland, entered a plea of guilty to “Illegal use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Crack Cocaine.” Sowell, who is in custody pending sentencing, faces up to 8 years in prison.
Shaye Christopher Donald Cole, age 27, of Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia, entered a plea of guilty to “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” Cole was previously convicted of a felony in the Circuit Court of Frederick County, Virginia. Cole is free on bond pending sentencing and faces up to 10 years in prison.
Shaquille Montrel Robinson, age 21, of Charles Town, West Virginia, entered a plea of guilty to “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” Robinson has prior convictions for “Wanton Endangerment” and “Unlawful Assault” in the Circuit Court of Jefferson County, West Virginia. Robinson is in custody pending sentencing and faces up to 10 years in prison. Robinson was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Ranson Police Department.Five Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistMARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Five people were recently sentenced to Federal prison according to United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II.
Darnell Leon Plaines, age 25, of Martinsburg, was sentenced to 37 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute more than 28 grams of crack cocaine from April to May 20, 2013, in the Northern District of West Virginia. The Court also ordered the forfeiture of $3,612 which constituted proceeds from the illegal activity. Plaines was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal pending designation to prison.
William Melvin Greene a/k/a “Reef,” age 40, and Catrina Colleen Everhart, age 33, of Martinsburg, were each sentenced to 60 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute more than 28 grams of crack cocaine from April to August of 2013, in the Northern District of West Virginia. Greene was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal pending designation to a Federal institution. Everhart, who is free on bond, will self-report to prison.
Calva Wellington Springette, age 31, of Martinsburg, was sentenced to 36 months in prison and 6 years of supervised release for the distribution of crack cocaine. Springette’s sentence was enhanced by the Court due to her possession of a stolen firearm. Springette, who is free on bond, will self-report to prison.
These cases were investigated by the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force.
Coty Sharee Buracker, age 22, of Inwood, West Virginia, was sentenced to 24 months in prison and 20 years of supervised release for failure to register and update registration as a sex offender. Buracker was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal and will soon be assigned to a Federal prison. This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police.
Assistant United States Attorney Jarod J. Douglas handled each of these cases on behalf of the government. U.S. District Court Judge Gina M. Groh presided.Coal Miner Sentenced for Falsifying RecordsRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs Specialist
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A West Virginia coal miner who falsified safety records at an Ohio County mine has been sentenced in Federal court.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that Sean A. CHASE, 32 years old, of Spencer, West Virginia, was sentenced to two years of supervised release after being convicted earlier this year of “Making False Representations and Certifications” on mine safety records and one count of “False Statements to a Federal Agent.” According to investigators, CHASE claimed to be a mine foreman and to be qualified to perform mine safety exams while working at the Tunnel Ridge Mine in Ohio County when in fact he held no such certification. CHASE also claimed that he took the mine foreman examination and was issued a foreman card and foreman number.
U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld praised the efforts of the investigators and encouraged anyone with knowledge of this type of offense to bring it to the attention of authorities. “We must do everything we can to protect our coal miners, including prosecuting individuals who break the law for their own financial gain,” said Ihlenfeld.
Joseph A. Main, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Mine Safety and Health, stated: “Accurate mine operator examinations of workplaces by certified individuals are a cornerstone of the Mine Act, and are required to protect miners from injury, illness, and death. MSHA appreciates the efforts of the U.S. Attorney to keep miners safe by holding examiners accountable when they falsify records and attempt to mislead Agency investigators.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration, and the West Virginia Office of Mine, Health, Safety and Training and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David J. Perri.