Southern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Huntington Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for a gun crime. Tyson Davis, Sr., 42, previously pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a 9th Avenue residence in Huntington on April 17, 2019 and recovered a loaded Glock 23 .40 caliber pistol from under the couch cushion on which Davis was seated. During the search of the residence, officers also located distribution amounts of a heroin and fentanyl mixture and methamphetamine. Later in a Mirandized interview, Davis admitted to possessing the firearm.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Huntington Violent Crime Drug Task Force and the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Ryan A. Keefe and R. Gregory McVey handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00140.
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Huntington Felon Sentenced to Prison for Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. - A Huntington man, Aubrey Gardner, 28, was sentenced today to total of 40 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and for committing the offense while he was on federal supervised release.
According to court documents, Gardner previously admitted that on February 8, 2021, he was a passenger in a vehicle that officers with the Huntington Police Department pulled over in the 2800 block of 8th Avenue in Huntington. The officers found a firearm in the waistband of Gardner’s pants. Gardner was prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law because of a 2018 conviction in the Southern District of West Virginia for possession with intent to distribute heroin.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor prosecuted the case on behalf of the Government.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 3:21-cr-00049 and 3:18-cr-00055.
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl.
According to court documents, Brian Vineyard, 49, sold approximately 3.5 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant in exchange for $450 on September 9, 2020.
Vineyard pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl and faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on November 17, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00106.
Parkersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man pleaded guilty today to a federal methamphetamine charge.
According to court documents, the Parkersburg Police Department stopped Justin Andrew Beardsley, 33, on Lynne Street in Parkersburg for a traffic violation on June 1, 2019. After a drug dog alerted on the vehicle, officers searched and found methamphetamine, packaging materials, scales, three loaded firearms, body armor, a hand grenade and miscellaneous ammunition. At his plea hearing, Beardsley admitted his intent to sell the methamphetamine and acknowledged that he had sold between 200 and 350 grams of methamphetamine in the year leading up to the traffic stop and arrest.
Beardsley pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on November 8, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Parkersburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-0060.
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Lincoln County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Lincoln County man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime.
According to court documents, the South Charleston Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in which Bert Tackett, 56, of Alkol, was a passenger on February 8, 2021. Tackett possessed approximately 117 grams of a mixture/substance containing fentanyl and 41.989 grams of methamphetamine and admitted that he intended to distribute the controlled substances. Law enforcement officers also recovered a Bersa Thunder 9mm handgun from inside the vehicle. When officers arrested Tackett at his Alkol residence on June 15, 2021, they found two bags of suspected fentanyl weighing approximately 31.123 grams and 1.244 grams, a bag of suspected methamphetamine weighing approximately 27.238 grams and two loaded firearms inside his residence.
Tackett pleaded guilty to a single-count indictment charging him with possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and five grams or more of methamphetamine. He faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison when sentenced on November 3, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the excellent investigative work of the South Charleston Police Department, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the U.S. Marshals Service.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Nick Miller is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00097.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man was sentenced today to 46 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Deshawn Derese Nelson, 52, previously admitted that he intended to distribute approximately 18 grams of methamphetamine seized from him during an arrest in Parkersburg.
According to court documents, Nelson was arrested by the Parkersburg Police Department during a traffic stop on Lynne Street on December 26, 2018 for an outstanding capias from Cabell County. While processing him on the arrest, officers found methamphetamine hidden in Nelson’s pantleg. Nelson had previously been convicted of robbery, theft, carrying a deadly weapon and possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, and was facing charges of first degree arson and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance when he was arrested.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the excellent investigative work of the Parkersburg Police Department and the Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force.
Senior United States District Judge John. T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00062.
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – One of the 15 individuals charged as a result of the long-term investigation dubbed the “Woo Boyz” pleaded guilty today to distributing methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Jermaine Williams, 20, of Charleston, sold an ounce of 90% pure methamphetamine to a confidential informant on October 1, 2020 for $575. The transaction took place at the GoMart on Bigley Avenue in Charleston.
Williams pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine and faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on November 18, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Charleston Police Department, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the U.S. Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is handling the prosecution.
The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00032.
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Jackson County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Jackson County man was sentenced today to 36 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Christopher Moore, 47, possessed a loaded Taurus 9mm pistol on June 27, 2020. On that day, Moore and a friend were cooking out at Moore’s house when they got into an argument and the friend grabbed Moore’s 9mm handgun. As they struggled over the gun, Moore accidentally shot his friend in the back of the head killing him. Moore is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of a prior federal drug conviction.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Steve Loew handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00002.
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Illinois Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Sending Threatening Communication Through Social MediaRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – An Illinois man was sentenced today to 10 months in federal prison for sending a threatening message through social media to a West Virginia law enforcement officer.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Rodney Hanson, 37, sent a threatening Facebook message on January 8, 2019, to a law enforcement officer in Putnam County after a police involved shooting. Hanson pleaded guilty in May 2021 to transmitting an interstate threatening communication.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentenced. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00169.
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Parkersburg Man with Multiple Felony Convictions Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison for Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man with three previous felony convictions was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison today for being a felon in possession of firearms.
According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, Casey Douglas Saunders, 30, possessed three semi-automatic pistols and one semi-automatic rifle at his residence on Camden Avenue in Parkersburg on May 14, 2020. The firearms were located by law enforcement officers who entered the residence to arrest Saunders on an outstanding warrant for violating his parole. Saunders had absconded from parole that he was serving for previous felony convictions in Wood County Circuit Court for burglary, delivery of a controlled substance and escape. Saunders’ escape conviction resulted from him stealing and then fleeing in a police officer’s vehicle when the officer attempted to arrest him on an outstanding warrant. Saunders is prohibited from possessing firearms due to his previous convictions.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Parkersburg Violent Crimes and Narcotics Task Force, the United States Marshals Service (USMS), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Parkersburg Police Department.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00014.
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Boone County Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Distributing Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Boone County man was sentenced today to 60 months in federal prison for distributing opioids. The five-year sentence was a significant upward departure from the U.S. Sentencing Guideline Range.
According to court documents and statements made in court, John Massey II, 40, of Seth, sold heroin to a confidential informant in Boone County in January and October 2018. On October 19, 2018, Massey possessed a mixture of heroin and fentanyl at his Seth residence, which Massey admitted he intended to distribute.
At sentencing, the United States sought an upward variance from the Court based largely on Massey’s role in perpetuating the opioid crisis as a dealer, his persistent drug dealing activity while out on bond and his relevant conduct wherein he distributed a particularly potent batch of fentanyl to buyers on December 23, 2017, that resulted in multiple drug overdoses in Boone County, one of which resulted in an overdose death. After hearing the testimony of several witnesses and receiving evidence, including testimony from the Chief Medical Examiner for the State of West Virginia and a paramedic, the Court determined that a “substantial upward variance” from Massey’s original sentencing range of six to twelve months addressed the serious nature of the offense and relevant conduct.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the U.S. 119 Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Kristin F. Scott and John File prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:18-cr-00268.
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Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Fentanyl OffenseRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man who was caught with fentanyl earlier this year pleaded guilty to a federal drug crime. James Lennon Pace, 32, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on March 16, 2021 at Pace’s residence located on Charleston Avenue in Huntington. Pace was present just prior to the search and arrested on an unrelated warrant. During the search, officers seized fentanyl, three firearms, and items used to prepare fentanyl for distribution. Pace admitted that he possessed the firearms and that he intended to distribute the fentanyl.
Pace faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on November 1, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Huntington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:21-cr-00104.
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Inmate Sentenced for Possessing Weapon at FCI BeckleyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. - An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) at Beckley was sentenced today for possessing a weapon at the correctional facility. Elijio Perez, 30, of Texas, was sentenced to 12 months in prison to run consecutively to the sentence he currently is serving.
According to court documents, Perez possessed a handcrafted weapon on March 31, 2020 while he was an inmate at the FCI Beckley. A staff member found the weapon after Perez had placed it on the floor between a desk and a wall in an office at the prison. The weapon was a piece of metal about 9 ½ inches long and sharpened to a point on one end. Perez admitted that the shank was designed and intended to be used as a weapon.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess handled the prosecution.
United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:21-cr-00001.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts 18 for Roles in Drug Trafficking Organization Operating in HuntingtonRead the Press Release
Over 47 Pounds of Fentanyl, 6.5 Pounds of Methamphetamine, 4.5 Pounds of Cocaine, 2 Pounds of Heroin, 14 Firearms and More Than $335,000 Seized
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – After a lengthy investigation, 18 individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) operating in Huntington. Seventeen of these individuals are charged with conspiracy to distribute a variety of drugs including fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, cocaine base (crack), oxycodone, and heroin. Other charges in the indictment include the distribution and possession with intent to distribute various drugs and using a telephone to facilitate a felony drug trafficking offense. The indictment was returned under seal on July 28, 2021 and unsealed today after the arrest of 14 defendants.
Earlier today, federal agents and officers from various law enforcement agencies executed arrest and search warrants in numerous locations in and around Huntington. Federal agents also executed a search warrant last week in Columbus, Ohio, leading to the seizure of approximately 36 pounds of fentanyl and the arrest of Brayan Luces.
The indictment alleges that Brayan Luces frequently supplied William Raeshaun Byrd of Huntington with large quantities of fentanyl and cocaine. The investigation revealed that Byrd often received multi-kilogram shipments of fentanyl and cocaine from Luces which were transported from Columbus to Huntington by vehicle. Byrd supplied multiple individuals including Christopher Leon Vest with fentanyl and cocaine. Vest in turn supplied Scott Lee Midkiff and Erica Antionette Kirker with fentanyl and methamphetamine. Byrd, Vest, Midkiff, and Kirker all distributed significant quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine to other dealers in the Huntington area. This DTO utilized multiple residences throughout Huntington to store and prepare various drugs for distribution. Other individuals in the conspiracy distributed and or assisted in the distribution of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, cocaine base (crack), oxycodone and heroin in the Huntington area and other locations in West Virginia.
“The hard work and dedication of our law enforcement partners has led to the disruption of this dangerous DTO that was distributing large amounts of illegal drugs in the Huntington area,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “I want to thank the FBI and our federal, state, and local partners that conducted the lengthy investigation and the many law enforcement officers who assisted in today’s takedown. Our efforts in this case should reassure the people of Huntington that we will continue to work tirelessly to identify and prosecute drug dealers at all levels in order to keep our communities safe.”
“The suspects charged in this indictment made a business out of selling dangerous, illegal drugs,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “Today’s arrests send the message that their business venture is over. We will not tolerate brazen drug dealers operating in plain view near schools and in the community we all call home. The FBI focuses on dismantling these types of criminal organizations from the top down. I want the community in and around the Huntington area to know we, alongside our partners, are committed to making it a safer place for everyone.”
“The Cabell County Sheriff’s Department is proud to have participated in this long-term drug investigation with the FBI and other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies,” said Cabell County Sheriff Chuck Zerkle. “Through our collaborative efforts, we have removed many drug dealers from our streets, some of which have plagued our community for over 10 years.”
Those charged include:
William Raeshaun Byrd, 31, Huntington
Marvin Jerome Calvin, 40, Huntington
Mark Anthony Chandler, 30, Huntington
Kimberly Ann Combs, 44, Huntington
Robert Lamont Congleton, 41, Huntington
Reginald Jerome Hairston, 43, Huntington
Marcus Allen Johnson, 37, Huntington
Erica Antoinette Kirker, 34, Huntington
Brayan Luces, 24, Columbus, Ohio
Aaron Scott Midkiff, 36, Huntington
Edward Shane Midkiff, 34, Huntington
Scott Lee Midkiff, 35, Huntington
William Edward Nellons, Jr., 37, Huntington
Leonard Brandon Joe Rice, 34, Louisa, Kentucky
Dennis Wayne Snyder, 31, Hurricane
Ricky Lee Taylor, 57, Charleston
Christopher Leon Vest, 33, Huntington
Dillon Andrew Young, 28, Sissonville
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Southern West Virginia TOC-West Task Force consisting of the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department, the Hurricane Police Department, and the Marshall University Police Department, with support from the West Virginia State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West. The Ohio Highway Patrol, the Kentucky State Police, and the FBI and DEA in Columbus also assisted in the investigation.
Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph F. Adams and Courtney L. Cremeans are prosecuting this case for the government.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:21-cr-00109.
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Fayette County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Fayette County man pleaded guilty to a federal drug crime.
According to court documents, Anthony Maurice Bell, 54, of Oak Hill, possessed more than 400 grams of a substance containing fentanyl and a firearm in Oak Hill on January 26, 2021. Bell admitted that he intended to sell the fentanyl.
Bell pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on November 4, 2021.
“The excellent work of the Oak Hill Police Department and the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force in this case prevented a significant amount of dangerous fentanyl from being distributed throughout our communities,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “Fentanyl is the leading cause of overdose deaths in our state and the U.S. Attorney’s Office is working with law enforcement throughout the District to identify fentanyl dealers and hold them accountable.”
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Nick Miller is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00016.
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Parkersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man pleaded guilty today to federal firearm and drug charges.
According to court documents and statements made in court, officers with the Parkersburg Police Department arrested Jonathan Ray Sindledecker, 40, on January 17, 2020 due to outstanding warrants. When officers approached Sindledecker at a Go-Mart store near the intersection of 16th Street and St. Mary’s Avenue, he ran around the store into an alley. As Sindledecker was running, he attempted to pull a pistol with an obliterated serial number from his waist area. Upon doing so, Sindledecker lost his balance and fell to the ground. Officers apprehended Sindledecker and located the pistol nearby. Officers also located a quantity of methamphetamine, digital scales and a small amount of cash on Sindledecker. Sindledecker knew he was prohibited from possessing the firearm due to prior felony convictions for unlawful entry and manufacture of a controlled substance in Wood County Circuit Court. Sindledecker admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine to others.
Sindledecker pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and faces up to 30 years in prison when he is sentenced on October 20, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Parkersburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe is handling the prosecution.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00050.
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON – One of the 15 individuals charged as part of the long-term investigation dubbed the “Woo Boyz” pleaded guilty to a federal gun crime. Memphis Ross, 20, of Charleston, pleaded guilty to possession of a fully automatic machine gun that was not registered to him.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on July 26, 2020 at the Charleston home of Ross’ mother and located an IMI Uzi 9mm submachine gun. Ross admitted bringing the fully automatic firearm into his mother’s home and that the firearm was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Officers also found three other firearms, ammunition and some marijuana during the search.
Ross faces up to 10 years in prison when he is sentenced on October 28, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Charleston Police Department, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the U.S. Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is handling the prosecution.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00032.
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Two Individuals Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two of the 15 individuals charged as a result of the long-term investigation dubbed the “Woo Boyz” have been sentenced to federal prison for federal drug and gun crimes. Erica Ratliff, 36, of Charleston, was sentenced to six years in prison for possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine. Devonte Andrews, 28, of Charleston, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, Ratliff met her drug source of supply at the Family Dollar store on Bigley Avenue on November 24, 2020 and purchased three ounces of methamphetamine. After Ratliff left the parking lot of the Family Dollar store, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop on her vehicle. The officers recovered the methamphetamine that Ratliff had just purchased as well as other controlled substances she had on her person. Ratliff admitted that she intended to distribute the methamphetamine.
Court documents indicate that Andrews was walking on Hale Street on January 24, 2021 when he was stopped by officers with the Charleston Police Department. At the time, Andrews had a loaded Taurus PT 738 .380 ACP firearm behind his back. Andrews admitted that he has a 2016 felony conviction for distribution of heroin and is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Charleston Police Department, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the U.S. Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman handled the prosecutions.
The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:21-cr-00046 (Andrews) and 2:21-cr-00033 (Ratliff).
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St. Albans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Ronald Pleasant, 26, of St. Albans, pleaded guilty to distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Pleasant sold two ounces of methamphetamine to a confidential informant for $1,000 on December 10, 2019 in St. Albans. Pleasant admitted selling methamphetamine to the same confidential informant on two other occasions.
Pleasant faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on November 4, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys Monica Coleman and Negar Kordestani are handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00197.
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Parkersburg Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man was sentenced today to six years in federal prison for distributing child pornography. Upon his release, Timothy Paul Rapson, 39, will be required to serve a term of 20 years of supervised release and to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, Rapson previously pleaded guilty to using a peer-to-peer file sharing program to distribute child pornography on December 31, 2019. The investigation revealed that Rapson possessed over 76,000 images and videos of child pornography, many of which depict prepubescent minors.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and praised the investigative work of the Parkersburg Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White handled the prosecution.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-000175.
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Ohio Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Columbus, Ohio man was sentenced today to 70 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Rashawn Akmed Miller, 37, was one of 14 defendants charged as a result of a long-term investigation known as “Second Wave,” which dismantled a poly-drug network operating in Kanawha and Fayette counties.
According to the his plea agreement and statements made in court, Miller brokered a deal between a Columbus, Ohio supplier and Jason Michael Terrell and Roger Jarea Drake. Terrell and Drake traveled from Kanawha County to Columbus where Miller introduced them to the supplier who sold them approximately two pounds of methamphetamine. Terrell and Drake returned to West Virginia where they distributed the methamphetamine. Terrell was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. Drake is scheduled to be sentenced in September 2021.
All defendants charged as a result of the Second Wave investigation have pleaded guilty. Along with Drake, Steven Matthew Bumpus, Craig Redman, Tonya Simerly and Ronald Lee Thomas III are scheduled to be sentenced in September 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the excellent investigative work of all the law enforcement agencies involved in the case. The long-term investigation was spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in partnership with the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force (CWVDTF), the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department, the Charleston Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT). The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation of Sammy Joe Fragale, Sr., and Sammy Joe Fragale II, as part of the Second Wave investigation.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-000154.
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Nicholas County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Ralph Floyd Barnett, Jr., 61, of Birch River, pleaded guilty today to a federal gun crime. A federal grand jury indicted Barnett in April 2021.
According to statements made in court, deputies with the Nicholas County Sheriff’s Department responded to Barnett’s residence in Birch River on August 17, 2019 after he made a series of 911 calls, including one in which he threatened to shoot somebody. After hearing gunshots as they approached the residence, deputies arrested Barnett and obtained a search warrant to search his residence. A member of the Nicholas County Sheriff’s Department subsequently recovered a .22 caliber handgun from a chicken coop located on Barnett’s property. Barnett admitted that he was prohibited from possessing firearms as a result of his prior felony conviction for the federal crime of aiding and abetting in maintaining a drug premises.
Barnett pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon and faces up to 10 years in prison when sentenced on October 21, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Nicholas County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nowles Heinrich is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00066.
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Ohio Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Cleveland, Ohio man was sentenced today to 37 months in federal prison for a drug crime. James Lavan, 45, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Lavan admitted that on June 12, 2019, members of the Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) executed a search warrant on his girlfriend’s vehicle and seized over 70 grams of heroin from his tool bag in the truck. Lavan admitted he intended to sell the heroin. During the search, law enforcement officers also recovered two firearms.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Charleston Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Nowles Heinrich, Jeremy B. Wolfe and former Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:19-cr-00233.
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Beckley Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – William David Reid, 46, of Beckley, pleaded guilty today to distribution of a quantity of heroin.
According to court documents, Reid sold a quantity of heroin to a confidential informant in Beckley on August 3, 2020. As part of the plea, Reid also admitted to possessing approximately 20 grams of methamphetamine on August 12, 2020 that he intended to distribute in and around Raleigh County.
Reid faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on November 5, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-cr-00156.
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Beckley Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Zachary Mitchem, 36, of Beckley, pleaded guilty today to possession with the intent to deliver methamphetamine and heroin.
According to court documents, Mitchem was found passed out in a car parked in front of a local business near Beckley on July 5, 2019. When a law enforcement officer came to check on Mitchem, she observed what she suspected to be controlled substances in Mitchem’s car. The officer then conducted a search of the car and found approximately 21 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 14 grams of heroin. The officer also found a gun which Mitchem was prohibited from possessing due to previous felony convictions. After his arrest, Mitchem admitted that he intended to distribute the drugs in and around Raleigh County.
Mitchem faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on November 5, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Beckley Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-cr-00032.
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Raleigh County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Raleigh County man pleaded guilty today to possession of 100 grams or more of heroin and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
According to court documents, Richard James Pfost, 38, of Beaver, was the front seat passenger in a vehicle traveling in Belle when deputies with the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle. Deputies observed marijuana in the vehicle and conducted a search of the vehicle. In the front passenger side of the vehicle where Pfost was seated, deputies located approximately 112 grams of heroin, 88 grams of methamphetamine, 11 grams of cocaine, a loaded Smith and Wesson M&P Shield 9mm pistol, and a loaded Ruger EC9 9mm pistol. Pfost also had $420 in his possession, which he admitted were drug distribution proceeds. Pfost also admitted that he intended to distribute the heroin, methamphetamine and cocaine for money, and that the firearms in his possession were to protect himself, the drugs he possessed and the drug proceeds.
Pfost is scheduled to be sentenced on December 2, 2021 and faces a mandatory minimum of ten years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Courtney Cremeans is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00094.
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Parkersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Dennis Hutton, 33, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty today to a federal gun crime.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on June 28, 2019, at a hotel room at the Quality Inn in Mineral Wells, Wood County. During the search, officers found Hutton, digital scales, quantities of suspected methamphetamine and heroin and a Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver. Hutton admitted to the officers he was selling the drugs to others because of the financial obligations he had. The drugs were sent to the DEA Mid-Atlantic Laboratory and were confirmed to be methamphetamine and carfentanil. Hutton admitted that he carried the gun to protect both his drugs and the proceeds of his drug dealing.
Hutton pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and faces five years and up to life in prison when he is sentenced on October 18, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00143.
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Kanawha County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Kanawha County man was sentenced today to 45 months in federal prison for drug and gun crimes. Ricky Lee Clark, Sr., 53, of St. Albans, previously pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, being a felon in possession of firearms, and being a felon in possession of ammunition.
According to court documents, a member of the St. Albans Police Department pulled over Clark’s truck on July 2, 2019. At the time, Clark’s truck was being driven by a woman and he was the passenger. Handgun ammunition was recovered from the truck and Clark had approximately 10 grams of methamphetamine in his pocket. When law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at his residence later that day, they recovered six firearms. Clark is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition because of a prior felony conviction for conspiring to operate a clandestine drug laboratory.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the St. Albans Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the United States Marshals Service.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Nowles Heinrich handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00034.
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Dunbar Man Sentenced to More Than Six Years in Federal Prison for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Dunbar man was sentenced to six and a half years in federal prison today for a federal gun crime. Corey Allen Tucker, 25, previously pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Tucker shot an individual six times in South Charleston on January 7, 2019. Later that day, investigators with the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department located Tucker in a South Charleston residence and found a 9mm pistol magazine loaded with unfired cartridges in his jacket pocket. Law enforcement officers searched the residence and found two firearms, including a Taurus Millennium G2 9mm pistol, buried in a cat litter box. Some of the ammunition loaded in that firearm was the same brand and type of shell casing located at the scene of the shooting. The magazine found in Tucker’s jacket pocket also fit the firearm. Tucker admitted to law enforcement that he shot the victim. Tucker was prohibited from possessing firearms by virtue of a 2016 conviction in South Carolina for assault and battery in the first degree.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00162.
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Cross Lanes Man Operating Extensive Fencing Scheme Found Guilty by Federal JuryRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A federal jury convicted a Cross Lanes man, Nedeltcho Vladimirov, 53, a native of Bulgaria, of one count of conspiring to commit money laundering and three counts of money laundering after a three-day trial.
Evidence at trial revealed that Vladimirov operated a fraudulent fencing operation - a scheme in which stolen goods were acquired in order to resell them for profit to an unsuspecting buyer. Vladimirov bought the items he resold at a small fraction of the retail cost from individuals addicted to heroin, known in the fencing scheme as “boosters.” Vladimirov met the “boosters” at a gas station in Cross Lanes where he bought new items such as high end vacuum cleaners, tools and other items that he later resold on his eBay account. The investigation revealed that Vladimirov sold over 7,000 items on his eBay account and had over $550,000 in sales over a three-year period. The “boosters” used the cash provided by Vladimirov for the stolen items to support their drug habits. A federal search warrant executed at Vladimirov’s residence by the United States Secret Service on February 10, 2020, revealed that he had set up cleaning stations used to remove security devices and labels from boxes so that the stolen items could not be traced.
The jury heard testimony from law enforcement agents with the United States Secret Service regarding the execution of the search warrant at Vladimirov’s residence and his Mirandized statement. The jury also heard testimony from experts in organized retail fraud investigations who conducted an extensive independent investigation of Vladimirov’s operation which was later shared with state and federal law enforcement officers. Several “boosters” testified that they had sold the stolen products to Vladimirov. The jury also considered the testimony of the defendant.
Vladimirov faces up to 20 years imprisonment and a forfeiture money judgment against him when he is sentenced on November 18, 2021.
“The successful outcome of this case is the result of the outstanding work of the United States Secret Service, the West Virginia State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigations, the Putnam County Sheriff's Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department and the South Charleston Police Department, together with the Organized Retail Crimes (ORC) investigators from Kroger, CVS Pharmacy and Target Corporation,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “I congratulate all those who worked on this case, including Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew J. Tessman and Erik S. Goes and the rest of the dedicated trial team for bringing this defendant to justice. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to prosecuting these types of cases and we are working to protect the public from these types of schemes that further the ongoing drug crisis.”
“The Secret Service is dedicated to protecting our nation’s financial institutions and corporations that operate within the Southern District of West Virginia,” said United States Secret Service Resident Agent in Charge Robert Pyle. “We would like to thank the South Charleston Police Department, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department and the West Virginia State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigations, as well as the Organized Retail Crime (ORC) investigators from Kroger, Target and CVS Pharmacy who made this investigation successful with their dedication and professionalism.”
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the jury trial.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00054.
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Operation X-Nation: Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Two more defendants were sentenced today for their roles in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) operating in Mercer County.
Keith Blakely, also known as “Bumpy,” 43 of New York, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine, oxymorphone, oxycodone and hydromorphone. Jan Rucker, 29, of McDowell County, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute hydromorphone and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. Blakely also forfeited $69,962 in proceeds generated from his drug trafficking activity along with several firearms, while Rucker agreed to forfeit $1,543 and two firearms. Both men previously pleaded guilty to the charges that resulted from a long-term, multi-state investigation known as Operation X-Nation.
Between August 2017 and August 31, 2019, Blakely was participating in a DTO that was operating in and around Princeton. Law enforcement officers intercepted telephone conversations in which Blakely was discussing the distribution of controlled substances with other members of the drug trafficking operation, including the pricing and quantities of substances to be distributed. Blakely also made several drug distributions to informants that were cooperating with law enforcement. On August 30, 2019, law enforcement officers conducted a search of the apartment Blakely was living in near Bluefield and found large quantities of oxymorphone, oxycodone, and hydromorphone pills that he intended to distribute, along with three firearms and approximately $69,962 in cash. Blakely admitted that the cash was proceeds from his drug trafficking activity and agreed to forfeit the cash and the firearms to the United States.
Rucker was stopped by law enforcement officers on August 30, 2019, while driving his truck in Princeton. The officers found approximately 507 hydromorphone pills, $1,543 in cash and two firearms during the traffic stop. Rucker admitted that he intended to distribute the pills and that he used and carried the firearms during the drug trafficking crime. As part of the plea agreement, Rucker agreed to forfeit the firearms and the $1,543 that he admitted was proceeds of drug trafficking activity.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, which is composed of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, the Princeton Police Department and the Bluefield Police Department.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentences. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 1:19-cr-00307 (Blakely) and 1:19-cr-00308 (Rucker).
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Vincent Williams, 47, of Charleston, pleaded guilty today to distribution of five grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Williams sold approximately 13 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in Hurricane on September 15, 2017 and again on September 18, 2017. On September 19, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Williams’ residence in Charleston and found approximately 2,266.3 grams of methamphetamine that Williams admitted he intended to distribute. Law enforcement officers also found a .40 caliber handgun inside Williams’ residence.
Williams faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on November 18, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT).
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Nick Miller is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:18-cr-00110.
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Kanawha County Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Kanawha County man was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison today for federal gun crimes. Tevin Williams, 27, of Charleston, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Williams was driving on Rt. 60 in Belle on June 5, 2019 when he was pulled over and removed from the car by law enforcement officers. A K-9 unit alerted to the presence of drugs in the car. During a search of his car, officers located a Ruger 9mm pistol, ammunition, a small black safe, $2,293 in U.S. currency, over 100 empty plastic baggies and approximately 93 grams of methamphetamine. Williams admitted he was carrying the firearm to protect his drugs and cash.
On November 6, 2019, Williams traveled to a home in Putnam County and knocked on the door. After being turned away at the door, Williams turned around and fired three to four shots at the residence and then drove away. Nine days later on November 15, 2019, Williams was driving in South Charleston when he was pulled over and removed from the car by law enforcement officers. At that time, he was wearing two shoulder holsters. Officers located two firearms under the front seat of the car, both of which were Hi Point 9mm pistols. Williams is prohibited from possessing firearms as a result of his 2013 first degree robbery conviction in Kanawha County Circuit Court. The pistols seized from Williams on November 15 were examined at the West Virginia State Police Laboratory and one of those pistols was identified as matching one of the shell casings recovered by law enforcement from the Putnam County residence on November 6, 2019.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the South Charleston Police Department, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department, the Belle Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:21-cr-00038 and 2:20-cr-00048.
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Huntington Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington woman pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime. Christa Dawn Ravenscroft, 44, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers executed search warrants on March 8, 2019 at a residence on Baer Street in Huntington after law enforcement received multiple reports of drug sales and drug activity at that location. A search of the residence found approximately 1.55 grams of methamphetamine along with multiple ledgers and a digital scale. In a Mirandized interview, Ravenscroft admitted to selling drugs to support her own habit. The West Virginia State Police Forensic Laboratory confirmed the substance as methamphetamine.
Ravenscroft faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on October 25, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force and the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00181.
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Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. - Jonathan Baker, 36, of Huntington, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on March 2, 2021 at an apartment on 26th Street in Huntington. During a search of the residence, officers found a firearm on top of a nightstand. Baker admitted to officers that he had possessed the firearm and he knew he was prohibited from possessing the firearm because of a 2011 felony drug conviction in Bibb County, Georgia.
Baker faces up to 10 years in prison when he is sentenced on October 25, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor is handling the prosecution.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:21-cr-00056.
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Detroit Woman Sentenced for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit woman who was caught in Wayne County with oxycodone in 2016 was sentenced today to three years in federal prison. Tuniesia Monique Adams, 43, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute oxycodone.
According to court documents, Adams admitted that on November 29, 2016, she transported 382 30mg oxycodone pills from Detroit to Fort Gay, Wayne County, where she intended to sell the pills with the help of another individual. When Adams met with the individual, they were approached by investigators who discovered and seized the pills. Adams admitted that she intended to sell the oxycodone pills and that she had made previous trips from Detroit to sell pills in Wayne County.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department and the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:17-cr-00059.
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Parkersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Reese Inman, 39, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on October 16, 2019 at a residence on Dempsie Avenue in Parkersburg. Inman was located in the living room and a loaded .22 Rohm revolver and a quantity of heroin were nearby. In their search, officers located a total of between 14 and 15 grams of heroin, a Chiappa .22 revolver and ammunition, an iPad that was payment for heroin Inman had sold, a black digital scale, $384 in U.S. currency and some marijuana. Inman was advised of his Miranda rights and agreed to be interviewed. In that interview, Inman admitted that he had been selling heroin in Wood County and that he intended to distribute the heroin in his possession to others.
Inman pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on October 28, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force and the Wood County Sheriff’s Department.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Alexander Hamner is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00090.
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Operation X-Nation: New York Man Sentenced to More Than 15 Years in Federal Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A New York man was sentenced today to 186 months in federal prison for his participation in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) in Mercer County. James Walker, 43, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine, oxymorphone, oxycodone and hydromorphone. Walker was charged as a result of a long-term, multi-state investigation known as Operation X-Nation. Walker also forfeited $150,000 in proceeds generated from his drug trafficking activity.
Between August 2017 and August 31, 2019, Walker worked with other members of a DTO to distribute prescription pills and cocaine in and around Mercer County. More specifically, Walker facilitated drug transactions with confidential informants working with law enforcement. Walker would then direct the informants to one of several trailers he owned in different trailer parks in Mercer County. Once the informants arrived at the trailer park, Walker would then direct them to meet with a particular member of the DTO to purchase the drugs. Walker and other members of the DTO also had telephone calls intercepted by law enforcement. In these calls Walker and others were discussing drug transactions including the pricing and quantities of different substances. Walker further admitted that he was arrested in New York after having calls intercepted by law enforcement. At the time of his arrest, Walker was in possession of approximately 1,500 prescription pills that he intended to distribute. Walker also was arrested in Princeton on January 10, 2020. and at that time, he was driving a car that had a hidden mechanical trap that was used to transport controlled substances.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, which is composed of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, the Princeton Police Department and the Bluefield Police Department.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:19-cr-00307.
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Dunbar Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – David Wayne Watson, 37, of Dunbar, pleaded guilty today to a federal gun crime. A federal grand jury indicted Watson in August 2020.
According to statements made in court, officers with the Charleston Police Department responded to a call for shots fired near the Go-Mart in North Charleston in November 2019. Watson was outside an apartment building nearby. Officers made contact with him, and Watson agreed to let the officers inside the building to check the welfare of the residents. While walking up the stairs, an officer observed a firearm in Watson’s pocket. Watson admitted that he was prohibited from possessing firearms as a result of his prior felony convictions for aggravated robbery and fleeing from police causing injury.
Watson pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon and faces up to 10 years in prison when sentenced on October 19, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00141.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to over Five Years in Prison for Federal Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Johnny Ray Francis III, 20, was sentenced to 66 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute heroin and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, Francis possessed a plastic baggie containing suspected heroin and a Glock 23 .40 caliber 9mm pistol in a residence on 26th Street in Huntington on June 12, 2019. After laboratory testing, the substance possessed by Francis was determined to be approximately 8 grams of heroin. Francis admitted that he intended to distribute the heroin and that he possessed the firearm for the purpose of protecting himself and the heroin.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00258.
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Two Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two men were sentenced to federal prison today for federal gun crimes.
Jalen Chapman, 28, of Charleston, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, officers with the Charleston Police Department arrested Chapman on an outstanding warrant at a residence on Barber Drive in Charleston on or about September 29, 2018. Officers later searched the residence and seized two firearms, a .45 caliber Sig Sauer 1911 pistol and a .38 Special Taurus revolver. Chapman admitted that the firearms belonged to him and that he knew he was prohibited from possessing the firearms because he was previously convicted of a felony drug trafficking offense in Kanawha County Circuit Court. Officers also seized approximately 368 grams of methamphetamine and over 20 grams of cocaine base from a grill located outside the home. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Negar M. Kordestani and former Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders handled the prosecution.
In a separate case, Jamaile Huey, 43, of Detroit, Michigan was sentenced to 80 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Huey will serve 3 years of supervised release upon completion of his federal prison sentence. According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about January 8, 2021, members of the Huntington Police Department SWAT Team executed a search warrant for the person of Jamaile Huey at an apartment on Bridge Street in Huntington. During the execution of the warrant, Huey was located in the apartment and placed into custody. During a search of the apartment, a loaded Glock, model 17, 9mm pistol, was located in the nightstand in the room that Huey had been observed coming from when apprehended by the SWAT team. A loaded high-capacity magazine for the Glock pistol was also located in the same room. At the time he possessed the firearm, Huey had three previous felony convictions. The Huntington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Courtney Cremeans and Greg McVey handled the prosecution.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Charleston Police Department and the Huntington Police Department.
These cases were prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:19-cr-00058 (Chapman) and . 3:21-cr-00030 (Huey).
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Michigan Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Rafael Starks, 36, of Michigan, was sentenced today to 21 months in prison for aiding and abetting the distribution of heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Starks admitted that on August 1, 2018, he and another individual sold heroin to a confidential informant in the 1100 block of 9th Avenue in Huntington.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:18-cr-00249.
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Huntington Man Sentenced for Federal Crack Cocaine ChargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man caught with crack cocaine last year in his residence was sentenced today to 78 months in federal prison. Daniel Legette, 45, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, also known as “crack.” Legette was on supervised release at the time of the offense for a prior federal drug conviction and was sentenced to an additional 12 months and one day in federal prison after his release was revoked. The sentences were ordered to run consecutively for a total sentence of 90 months and one day.
According to court documents, officers with the Huntington Police Department executed a search warrant on November 12, 2020 at Legette’s residence located on Oakland Avenue in Huntington. During the search, officers seized approximately 100 individually wrapped bags of crack cocaine totaling approximately 23 grams. Officers also seized additional quantities of methamphetamine, heroin and a rifle. Legette admitted that he possessed and intended to distribute all of the drugs seized by police.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentences. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:21-cr-00007.
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Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. -- Frederick Coleman, 32, of Huntington, pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a residence in Huntington on February 13, 2020. Inside one of the bedrooms, officers recovered approximately 2.31 grams of heroin and approximately 20.99 grams of cocaine. Coleman admitted that he possessed the heroin and intended to distribute it.
Coleman pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on October 18, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Nick Miller is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00171.
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Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Escape ChargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man pleaded guilty today to an escape charge. Jeremy Midkiff, 39, pleaded guilty to walking away from a halfway house last year.
Midkiff admitted that in October 2020, he left Dismas Charities, Inc., a Bureau of Prisons residential reentry facility, without permission and did not return. He had been confined at Dismas because of a previous federal drug trafficking conviction.
Midkiff faces up to five years imprisonment when sentenced on November 10, 2020.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Senior United States District Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Negar Kordestani is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00083.
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Charleston Woman Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Charleston woman who took part in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in 2019 was sentenced today to 10 months in federal prison and four years of supervised release. Kathryn Elizabeth Casto, 35, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Casto admitted that, between April and September of 2019, she conspired with multiple individuals to distribute methamphetamine. During the conspiracy, Casto repeatedly obtained quantities of methamphetamine which were transported from Akron, Ohio to various locations in West Virginia. Casto would in turn supply other drug dealers with methamphetamine that would be sold in the Huntington and Charleston areas. Casto admitted that she was aware some of her customers intended to distribute the methamphetamine she provided.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the joint investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the West Virginia State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force, the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, the United States Marshals Service, the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department, the Charleston Police Department, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Akron, Ohio Police Department, and the Brecksville, Ohio Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00245.
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Federal Inmate Pleads Guilty to Weapon ChargeRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Jorge Amador, a federal inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) at McDowell, pleaded guilty today to possessing a handcrafted weapon, commonly known as a “shank.”
According to court documents, on August 13, 2020, Amador possessed a handcrafted weapon commonly known as a “shank.” During a search of Amador, a staff member from FCI McDowell found the shank, which was a piece of metal approximately 7 ½ inches in length, sharpened to a point at one end, with thread tied around the other end to form a handle. Amador admitted to staff members that he did possess the handcrafted weapon. Amador also admitted that the shank was designed and intended to be used as a weapon.
Amador faces up to five years in prison, to be served consecutively to the sentence he is now serving, when he is sentenced on October 25, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is handling the prosecution.
United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the hearing.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:21-cr-00082.
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Clay County Woman Pleads Guilty to Defrauding FEMARead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Rebecca F. Bragg, 37, pleaded guilty to fraud in connection with major disaster or emergency benefits.
According to court documents, in June 2016, at the time of a major flood, Bragg resided in a home in Procious, Clay County, that was owned by her husband’s parents. On June 26, 2016, Bragg applied to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for both personal and rental assistance for the Procious residence. As a result of her application for rental assistance, Bragg received $2,472 from FEMA. FEMA initially deemed Bragg ineligible for home repair assistance because she had not proven she owned the home at the time of the flood. On July 20, 2016, through her previous employer, Bragg applied for and obtained home insurance for the Procious residence, wherein she falsely claimed she was the home owner. On August 9, 2016, from her previous employer’s office in Spencer, Roane County, Bragg faxed to FEMA the home insurance policy that listed her as the property owner. As a result of Bragg’s false statements and misrepresentations, she received $4,900.85 in home repair benefits from FEMA.
Bragg faces up to 30 years in prison when she is sentenced on October 28, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General and the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen Robeson is handling the prosecution.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00103.
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Parkersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man pleaded guilty today to federal firearm and drug charges.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about December 1, 2019, Ryan Ashley Williams, 35, was arrested by law enforcement officers at an apartment on Hall Street in Parkersburg. Officers found approximately 40 grams of a mixture containing carfentanil, fentanyl and heroin on Williams, as well as keys to a safe. Within the safe, officers located approximately eight grams of a mixture containing fentanyl and heroin, along with a semi-automatic pistol. Williams admitted that he intended to distribute the drugs to another person and that he knew he had been previously convicted of the felony offense of first degree robbery with a firearm specification in Wood County Circuit Court, which prohibited him from possessing firearms.
Williams pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute carfentanil, fentanyl and heroin and to being a felon in possession of a firearm, and faces up to 40 years in prison when sentenced on September 30, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Parkersburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe is handling the prosecution.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00091.
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Kanawha County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. -- James Arnold Scott, 45, of Hansford, pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of five grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to his own statements and court documents, on January 17, 2020, Scott aided and abetted one of his drug sources of supply in the distribution of four ounces of methamphetamine to a confidential informant for $1,150. The drug transaction took place in Huntington. Scott further admitted that when law enforcement later executed a search warrant at his Hansford residence they seized cash, marijuana, methamphetamine, four firearms, one of which was stolen, and a ballistic vest.
Scott faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on October 12, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Assistant United States Attorney Negar Kordestani is handling the prosecution.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:21-cr-00078.
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