Southern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Raleigh County Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Obstruct JusticeRead the Press Release
Defendant sentenced for conspiracy to fake his wife’s death at the New River Gorge
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Raleigh County man received a sentence of eight months of confinement for his role in a conspiracy to obstruct justice. Rodney Wheeler, 48, of Beckley, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to obstruct justice on January 5, 2021. He was ordered to serve two months of incarceration in federal prison, to be followed by six months of home confinement and then three years of supervised release.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Rodney and Julie Wheeler conspired to fake Julie’s death at the New River Gorge to avoid her federal court sentencing for health care fraud. Rodney Wheeler placed a 911 call on May 31, 2020, falsely claiming that Julie Wheeler had fallen from the Grandview Overlook in the New River Gorge in West Virginia. The overlook is a steep cliff with a series of ledges leading down to the New River. This 911 call prompted a massive search and rescue operation with hundreds of volunteers, law enforcement, and professional search and rescue personnel looking for Julie Wheeler at the base of the overlook and the surrounding area. Helicopters provided by the West Virginia Air National Guard and the West Virginia State Police searched from the air, repelling experts looked in the cliffs, and rescue dogs with their handlers scoured the ground looking for any trace of Julie Wheeler. In fact, Julie Wheeler was hiding in her own home and planning to go into permanent hiding with Rodney Wheeler.
Throughout the massive search effort, Rodney Wheeler repeatedly gave false statements to state and federal investigators intentionally designed to mislead them about his wife’s whereabouts. Rodney Wheeler also made a false Facebook post on June 1, 2020 stating “[T]he accident at Grandview yesterday involved my wife . . . they have not found her yet but I am holding out hope that she will be found and she is ok . . . I am heartbroken and lost right now but I have to have faith . . . please give us time to worth through this and please keep us in your thoughts and prayers.” The purpose Rodney Wheeler’s false statements was to continue the Wheelers’ ruse that she had fallen and was missing.
After two days of searching, the West Virginia State Police located Julie Wheeler hiding in a closet inside her own home. Once removed from her closet by the State Troopers, Rodney and Julie Wheeler were both taken into custody. In statements to state and federal investigators, Rodney and Julie Wheeler both admitted they conspired to fake her disappearance to avoid Julie Wheeler’s pending federal sentencing in a health care fraud case.
“A highly-coordinated effort by the agencies named herein led to the arrest and prosecution of Rodney Wheeler,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “I applaud the tremendous work of the National Park Service, the West Virginia State Police, the United States Probation Office, the FBI, the Office of Veterans Affairs (VA), the VA-Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, the West Virginia Air National Guard and the Raleigh County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office."
Rodney and Julie Wheeler both were charged with numerous felony and misdemeanor offenses in Raleigh County Circuit and Magistrate Courts relating to the false reporting of an emergency.
Julie Wheeler was sentenced in February 2021 to a total of 54 months in federal prison for health care fraud and her own role in the obstruction conspiracy. Julie Wheeler’s underlying health care fraud conviction related to her overbilling a VA program for spina bifida care. She was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $289,055.07 for the overbilling scheme.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over both criminal matters. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes handled the prosecutions.
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-00145.
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Charleston Woman Pleads Guilty to Role in Multi-State Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Melanie Lynne Curnutte, 58, of Charleston, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. She was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in September 2019.
According to the plea agreement, between the fall of 2018 and September of 2019, Curnutte conspired with multiple individuals to distribute methamphetamine in the Huntington and Charleston areas. During the conspiracy, Curnutte repeatedly obtained quantities of methamphetamine which were transported from Akron to Huntington. She relied on multiple individuals from Akron to deliver the methamphetamine to her and she would in turn distribute the methamphetamine to various customers. Curnutte admitted that she was aware some of her customers also intended to distribute the methamphetamine she provided to them.
Curnutte faces 10 years to life in federal prison when she is sentenced on July 6, 2021.
This joint investigation was spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Other agencies which participated and assisted in the investigation include 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 presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams 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-00245.
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Beckley Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Beckley man pleaded guilty today to distributing cocaine base in Raleigh County. Eric Ledon Brown, 53, was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2020.
Pursuant to the plea agreement and statements made in court, Brown sold cocaine base to a confidential informant on August 25, 2020. Brown admitted to selling the drugs from his residence on South Heber Street in Beckley. Brown also admitted to selling cocaine base on two other occasions within the Southern District of West Virginia. As further part of the plea, Brown admitted that a search warrant was executed at his residence on September 30, 2020. During the execution of the search warrant, law enforcement officers found a quantity of cocaine base that Brown admitted that he intended to distribute and two firearms that Brown was prohibited from possessing due to a prior felony conviction in the state of Ohio.
Brown faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 6, 2021.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, which is comprised of officers from the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the Beckley Police Department and the West Virginia State Police, conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk 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. 5:20-cr-00192.
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Ohio Man Enters Guilty Plea to Federal Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Cleveland, Ohio man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime. James Lavan, 45, pled 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.
Lavan faces up to 63 months in prison when sentenced on July 1, 2021.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Charleston Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys Nowles Heinrich, Jeremy B. Wolfe and former Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders 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. 2:19-cr-00233.
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Three Men Plead Guilty to Federal Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Three men appeared in U.S. District Court in Huntington today and pleaded guilty to federal drug crimes.
Michael Stanley Wright, 33, of Huntington, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. Wright admitted that on March 4, 2020, law enforcement officers searched his house located on Washington Avenue in Huntington. They seized approximately 194.3 grams of methamphetamine mixture and approximately 4.7 grams of fentanyl. Wright also had methamphetamine and fentanyl on his person when he was searched following his arrest. Wright admitted that he intended to sell the fentanyl and methamphetamine. Also seized by law enforcement officers during the search were two firearms - a Colt, Model CF1911, .45 caliber pistol and a Taurus, “Judge” .45/.410 revolver – and approximately $5,536 in cash, which was money Wright had made from selling drugs. Wright faces up to 40 years in prison when sentenced on June 28, 2021. The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey is handling the prosecution.
In a separate case, Aaron Howell, 46, of Huntington, entered a guilty plea to possession with the intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine. Howell admitted that on November 12, 2020, he was being transported to the Huntington Police Department and removed heroin and methamphetamine from his person and left it in the back of a police cruiser. Howell faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 28, 2021. The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor is handling the prosecution.
In another case, Antoine Louis, 38, of St. Albans, pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin. According to court documents and statements made in court, Louis admitted that 0n October 19, 2020, he was stopped by law enforcement in St. Albans. A police K-9 alerted to the presence of controlled substances and Louis admitted to officers that he had hidden controlled substances on his person. Louis also gave his consent for law enforcement officers to search his residence. During the search of Louis’ home, law enforcement officers located two firearms, six rounds of ammunition, approximately 27.1 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 47.3 grams of heroin. At that time, Louis was on supervised release for a previous federal drug conviction. Louis also admitted that on October 6, 2020, he sold over five grams of heroin to a confidential informant (CI) that was working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Louis faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 28, 2021. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner is handling the prosecution.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearings.
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-00103(Wright), 3:21-cr-00006(Howell) and 2:20-cr-00195(Louis).
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Two from Fayette County Arrested on Child Sex Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A man and a woman from Fayette County were arrested and charged today in connection with sex trafficking a 17-year-old minor female. Larry Allen Clay, Jr., 57, and Kristen Naylor-Legg, 28, were both charged by federal criminal complaint with sex trafficking of a minor. Both Clay and Naylor-Legg are detained pending their preliminary hearings scheduled on March 31, 2021.
According to the charging documents, on two separate occasions in June 2020, Clay, who at the time was an employee of the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department and the Chief of Police for the Gauley Bridge Police Department, rendered payments of $50 to Naylor-Legg to have sex with a 17-year-old minor female relative of Naylor-Legg. According to the criminal complaints, Naylor-Legg accompanied the victim and was present during both of the sexual encounters between Clay and the minor female victim. The complaints further allege that during the first incident, Clay remained in his Gauley Bridge police uniform during the entire sexual encounter and that the second incident took place inside the old Gauley Bridge High School in a location accessible to a limited number of people, including the Gauley Bridge Police Department. Law enforcement authorities were able to retrieve DNA evidence from towels and paper towels discarded in the room where the second incident allegedly took place.
If convicted, Clay and Naylor-Legg each face at least 10 years and up to life in prison.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the West Virginia State Police and the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department are conducting the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is handling the prosecution.
Members of the public are urged to report suspected instances of child sex trafficking through a toll-free hotline at 1-866-DHS-2ICE (1-866-347-2423) or online at www.ice.gov/tips.
Note: The charges contained in the complaints are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being 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. 2:21-mj-0068 (Naylor-Legg) and 2:21-mj-0069 (Clay).
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Logan County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Logan County man pled guilty today to a federal gun crime. Eddie Lee Conley, 45, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. A federal grand jury indicted Conley in February 2021.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Conley admitted that during the early morning hours of May 15, 2020, he possessed a .38 caliber Cobra derringer-style handgun in his motel room at the Roadway Inn in Chapmanville. Conley further admitted that at the time he possessed the handgun he had previously been convicted of conspiracy to operate a clandestine drug laboratory in the Circuit Court of Logan County in 2016. Pursuant to his plea agreement, Conley also admitted that he possessed a different .38 caliber handgun in Madison on January 29, 2020.
Conley faces up to ten years in prison when sentenced on June 30, 2021.
The West Virginia State Police and the Madison Police Department conducted the investigation and received assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Nowles Heinrich 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-00035.
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Felon Pleads Guilty to Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A felon pleaded guilty today to being in possession of a firearm. John Leach, 55, formerly of St. Albans, was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2020.
Leach admitted that on November 25, 2018, he was driving an improperly registered truck and was pulled over by the West Virginia State Police. In the truck, Leach had a loaded .25 caliber pistol. Leach was prohibited from possessing firearms due to multiple, prior felony convictions, including a 2006 conviction for malicious wounding in Kanawha County Circuit Court.
“I thank the West Virginia State Police and the ATF for their excellent work in this case,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston.
Leach faces up to 10 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 30, 2021.
The West Virginia State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Steve Loew 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-00172.
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Inmate Sentenced for Having Weapon at FCI McDowellRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. - An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) McDowell was sentenced today for possessing a weapon at the correctional facility. Rashun Evans, 23, of New York, was sentenced to 18 months in prison to run consecutively to the sentence he currently is serving. He also was sentenced to three years of supervised release following his imprisonment.
Evans previously pleaded guilty and admitted that on February 5, 2020 he possessed a handcrafted weapon at FCI McDowell. A staff member at the prison found the shank underneath a telephone in a common area where Evans had hidden it. The weapon was a seven inch long piece of metal sharpened on one end with a cloth handle on the other end. Evans also admitted that the shank was designed and intended to be used as a weapon.
“I commend the Federal Bureau of Prisons,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston, “for their vigilant efforts to prevent potential violence among inmates.”
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. 1:20-cr-00203.
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Berkeley County Man Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – A Berkeley County man pleaded guilty today to attempted enticement of a minor. James Braddock Biggerman, 21, of Hedgesville, was charged by a single-count Information in early March 2021.
According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, Biggerman admitted that in June and July, 2020, he communicated with a 13-year-old female located in Bluefield via Snapchat and text messages. During those conversations he asked the minor female to engage in sexual activity with him and send him sexually explicit images and videos of herself. Biggerman also offered to pay the minor female $100 to engage in sexual activity. Biggerman admitted to having similar conversations during the same time frame with another 13-year-old female located in Charleston. Biggerman admitted that on July 18, 2020, he traveled from Hedgesville to Bluefield in order to meet the first minor female to engage in sexual activity. He then planned to transport that minor to Charleston in order to have sex with both minor females and video record the sexual activity. Biggerman was arrested on July 18, 2020, when he arrived at the location where he had arranged to meet the minor in Bluefield.
“I want to thank the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, the Charleston Police Department and the FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force for their excellent work in this case,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “We are committed to prosecuting anyone who seeks to exploit our most vulnerable population – our children.”
Biggerman faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison when he is sentenced on June 14, 2021.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is handling the prosecution.
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. 1:21-cr-00037.
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Huntington Woman Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison for Role in Akron to Huntington Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington woman was sentenced today to 70 months in federal prison for her role in a conspiracy responsible for transporting methamphetamine from Akron, Ohio to Huntington where it was distributed.
Mary Beth Cummings, 36, previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Cummings admitted that during May 2019, she participated in a conspiracy with multiple individuals to distribute methamphetamine in the Huntington area. During the conspiracy, Cummings repeatedly obtained quantities of methamphetamine which were transported from Akron to Huntington. Cummings relied on multiple individuals from Akron to deliver the methamphetamine to her and Cummings would in turn distribute the methamphetamine to various customers in Huntington. Cummings also admitted that she was aware some of her customers also intended to distribute the methamphetamine she provided to them.
This joint investigation was spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Other agencies which participated and assisted in the investigation include 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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Huntington Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington woman pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute heroin.
Lynndell Nicola Boling, age 37, admitted that from at least December 2018 to October 15, 2020, she worked with other persons to sell heroin in Huntington. At first, she and another individual would run drugs to customers for their source of supply. Boling was paid with heroin for her own use. Later, she began meeting a drug runner at the Greyhound bus station who was working for her source. The runner would provide approximately 500 grams to 800 grams of heroin to Boling for her and others to sell. On October 15, 2020, members of the Huntington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted a search at Boling’s residence. Law enforcement seized from the residence 300 grams of heroin, worth approximately $40,000, and $17,960 in cash, which was money made from selling heroin. Also seized during the search was a Taurus .380 caliber pistol which had been provided to Boling by her heroin source to protect the heroin and money.
Boling faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison when she is sentenced on June 21, 2021.
The Huntington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey 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-00189.
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Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Crack Cocaine ChargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man pleaded guilty today to possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, also known as “crack.”
Daniel Legette, 45, admitted that on November 12, 2020, officers with the Huntington Police Department executed a search warrant 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.
Legette faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 21, 2021.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams 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. 3:21-cr-00007.
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Felon Sentenced to Prison for Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. - A Huntington man was sentenced today to 46 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Kevin Holmes, Jr., 31, previously pleaded guilty and admitted that on December 22, 2019, an officer with the Huntington Police Department pulled a vehicle over around the intersection of 20th Street and 6th Avenue in Huntington. Holmes was the only person in the vehicle. After determining there were warrants for Holmes arrest, the officer asked Holmes to get out of the vehicle. After a brief foot pursuit, the officer arrested Holmes. While conducting an inventory search of the vehicle, officers found a loaded .357 Magnum revolver. Holmes was prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law because of a 2015 conviction in Kentucky for trafficking a controlled substance, fleeing police and wanton endangerment.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. 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. 3:20-cr-00017.
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Raleigh County Pharmacist Sentenced to More Than 11 Years in Prison for Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Raleigh County pharmacist was sentenced today to 135 months in federal prison for her role in a fraud scheme which cost victims over $2 million in losses. She was also ordered to pay over $2.5 million in restitution to the victims and serve a term of three years of supervised release.
According to court documents and admissions at the plea and sentencing hearings, Natalie P. Cochran, 40, of Daniels, owner of Technology Management Solutions (TMS) and Tactical Solutions Group (TSG) in Beckley, knowingly defrauded and took money and property from individuals, a financial institution and several other companies from approximately June 2017 through at least August 22, 2019. She persuaded them to invest in TMS and TSG and in phony government contracts by making false misrepresentations regarding her and her companies’ experience and purported success as government contractors. Cochran convinced at least 11 people to invest approximately $2.5 million in alleged government contracts. The investors paid through personal checks, cashier’s checks and wire transfers. She also convinced an investor to send $511,920 through a wire transfer from North Carolina. Cochran never invested the money she received from victims, instead she put it into her personal and business bank accounts for personal purposes unrelated to the investments. Cochran admitted to using investor funds to make numerous purchases over $10,000, including withdrawing more than $37,500 to purchase a 1965 Shelby Cobra. She also admitted to knowing that at least one of her investors suffered a financial hardship as a result of her scheme. As part of this scheme, Cochran used some investors’ funds to pay other investors a partial return on their investment.
Cochran pled guilty to wire fraud and money laundering charges on September 21, 2020. Pursuant to her plea agreement, she also agreed to forfeit her interest to the United States in the assets she obtained through her fraudulent activities, including two pieces of real property, a 1965 Shelby Cobra, multiple vehicles, jewelry and nearly $45,000 seized from her business’ bank account.
“I want to commend the victims for the remarkable courage they displayed throughout the investigation and prosecution of this case,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “I also want to thank the West Virginia State Police , the United States Secret Service, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG) and Assistant United States Attorneys Kathleen Robeson and Greg McVey who worked tremendously hard to ensure that the defendant was held accountable for the significant harm she inflicted on the victims.”
“The West Virginia State Police is proud that today we were able to secure justice for the numerous victims impacted by the selfish criminal conduct of Natalie Cochran,” said West Virginia State Police Lieutenant Timothy Bledsoe. “While this sentence does not undo the harm that Cochran brought upon each victim, we feel that our investigative efforts worked to ensure that she was held accountable for her criminal actions related to the operation of her Ponzi scheme.”
“The results of this investigation demonstrate the Secret Service’s commitment to protecting our nation’s financial institutions and citizens of West Virginia,” said U.S. Secret Service Resident Agent in Charge Robert W. Pyle. “We will continue to work with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to bring offenders to justice. We would like to thank the West Virginia State Police and the FDIC-OIG for their cooperation and partnership in this case.”
“Today’s sentencing recognizes the importance of holding the defendant responsible for lying to a financial institution and investors, and fraudulently inducing them to finance her companies and fake government contracts,” said FDIC Inspector General Jay N. Lerner. “ The defendant then, in turn, purchased luxury items for her personal use with the illicit proceeds. The FDIC Office of Inspector General remains committed to working with the U.S. Attorney and our law enforcement partners to bring to justice those who commit such flagrant offenses, and to help preserve the integrity of the banking sector.”
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. 5:19-cr-00247.
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Operation Second Wave Update: Montgomery Woman Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Montgomery woman pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Carol Lynn Belton, 61, 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 plea agreement and statements made in court, Belton obtained methamphetamine from co-defendant Jason Terrell and sold it in Montgomery between January and August 2020. She admitted to selling approximately seven ounces during her involvement in the conspiracy.
Belton faces up to 20 years in prison when she is sentenced on June 8, 2021.
Other defendants, including Jimmie Coleman, Sammy Joe Fragale, Sr., Sammy Joe Fragale II, Larry Martin, and Jason Terrell have pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Gregory Woods was sentenced to 184 months in federal prison on February 8, 2021. Steven Matthew Bumpus, Roger Jarea Drake, Rashawn Akmed Miller, Craig Redman, Tonya Simerly, and Ronald Lee Thomas III are scheduled for trial on April 27, 2021.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), 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) conducted the investigation with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) who led the investigation of Sammy Joe Fragale, Sr., and Sammy Joe Fragale II, who were also prosecuted as part of the Second Wave investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is in charge of 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. 2:20-cr-00153 (Woods) and 2:20-cr-00154 (Terrell et al).
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Belle Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Dealing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Belle man was sentenced today to seven years in prison and three years of supervised release for distribution of methamphetamine. Justin Lee Davis, 27, was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2020 and charged with one count of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court, Davis sold approximately four ounces of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in the parking lot of a retail establishment near Belle on February 22, 2019. Law enforcement officers were able to observe Davis meeting with the confidential informant during the transaction. Following the transaction, Davis was followed back to his residence. A search warrant was executed at that residence four days later and Davis was located in a bedroom along with approximately 2.4 pounds of additional methamphetamine, digital scales and packaging materials.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin 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. 2:20-cr-00164.
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Beckley Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Beckley man pleaded guilty today to distributing cocaine base in Raleigh County. Greg Anthony Waters, 52, was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2020.
Pursuant to the plea agreement and statements made in court, on September 20, 2020, Waters sold approximately one ounce of cocaine base to a person that was working with law enforcement as a confidential informant. Waters admitted to meeting the informant near a restaurant he owned in Beckley to sell the drugs. Waters also admitted to selling cocaine or cocaine base on several other occasions. Each transaction occurred within the Southern District of West Virginia. As further part of the plea, Waters agreed to forfeit cash in the amount of $2,481 and to have a money judgment entered in the amount of $5,000, the total of which represents the proceeds of his illegal drug trafficking. Waters also agreed to forfeit a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado truck which was used to facilitate the distribution of controlled substances.
Waters faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on July 2, 2021.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, which is comprised of officers from the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the Beckley Police Department and the West Virginia State Police, conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk 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. 5:20-cr-00191.
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Beckley Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Beckley man pleaded guilty today to attempted production of child pornography. Douglas Patrick Humphrey, 32, was charged by a single-count Information in February 2021.
According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, Humphrey admitted that on August 25 and 26, 2020, he communicated with a 15-year-old female via Snapchat. During that conversation he asked her to meet him to engage in sexual activity and also asked her to produce and send a video of herself engaged in sexual intercourse with another man. Humphrey admitted that in July 2020 he had made a similar request of the minor female and had received a video depicting her engaged in sexual activity. Humphrey was arrested on August 26, 2020, when he arrived at the location where he had arranged to meet the minor.
Humphrey faces at least 15 years and up 30 years in prison when he is sentenced on July 2, 2021.
The Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force handled the investigation. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is handling the prosecution.
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. 5:21-cr-00005.
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Kanawha County Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Kanawha County woman pleaded guilty today to possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine. Raechel Cooper, 30, was charged by a single count Information on March 8, 2021.
According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, Cooper admitted that on April 9, 2018, Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) officers executed a search warrant at her East Bank residence. Officers found Cooper in her vehicle along with eight bags of methamphetamine hidden in a hollowed-out teddy bear. An additional amount of methamphetamine was found inside her residence. In total, Cooper was found to be in possession of over 350 grams of methamphetamine.
Cooper faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison when she is sentenced on June 15, 2021.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. 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-00036.
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to distribution of heroin. Donta Hamilton, 30, was charged by a single-count Information in February 2021.
According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, Hamilton admitted that on August 5, 2020, he met a confidential informant working with Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) in Charleston at a Renaissance Circle apartment and sold the confidential informant approximately 3.5 grams of heroin.
Hamilton faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 16, 2021.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Blackwell 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-00022.
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Fayette County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Fayette County man pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of firearms. Jonathan Fields, 38, was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2020, and charged with two counts of being a felon in possession of ammunition and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms.
According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, Fields admitted that during the early morning hours of November 6 and 7, 2019, he was illegally hunting deer in Nicholas County, and shot two deer without a license and out of season. While doing so, he possessed two rifles, a Bushmaster Firearms 5.56 caliber rifle, with a 30-round capacity magazine, and a Remington .243 caliber rifle. On November 12, 2019, Fields left the two firearms at the home of a friend in Summersville where they were later recovered by law enforcement officers with the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Fields further admitted that at the time he possessed the two rifles he had previously been convicted of voluntary manslaughter in the Circuit Court of Nicholas County in 2013.
Fields faces up to 87 months in prison when sentenced on June 14, 2021.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources conducted the investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Nowles Heinrich 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-00128.
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Detroit Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced that Honorable United States District Judge Frank W. Volk sentenced Cornelius Pope, 24, of Detroit, Michigan to 12 months and one day in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl and three years of supervised release.
Pope previously pled guilty on October 2, 2020. According to court documents, Pope admitted to distributing fentanyl and heroin on four separate occasions between November 7, 2018 and May 26, 2020, to confidential informants throughout the Beckley area.
Johnston commended the law enforcement officers and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex Hamner for their excellent work.
“The proliferation of fentanyl in the Southern District of West Virginia and throughout the United States is threatening the lives of countless individuals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa G. Johnston.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Beckley-Raleigh Drug and Violent Crime Unit.
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-00085.
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Detroit Heroin Dealer Sentenced to More Than 24 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced today that Curtis Watson, 52, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to a total of 295 months in prison and five years of supervised release. He was previously convicted by a federal jury of conspiracy to distribute heroin, using and carrying a firearm during the heroin conspiracy, and tampering with a witness. Watson, also known as “LOW,” conspired with other drug traffickers from Detroit, Michigan and Charleston, West Virginia, to distribute in excess of 700 grams of heroin in the Southern District of West Virginia.
“This case is a testament to the hard work our law enforcement partners do every day to combat these deadly drugs from making it into our communities,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “I applaud the tremendous work of everyone in this case, including Assistant U.S. Attorney Nowles Heinrich, who tried this case with former Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Saunders, and handled the sentencing hearing today.”
Watson supplied a residence in the Hernshaw area with a substantial amount of heroin, which would then be sold to drug addicts and dealers. Shortly after the conspiracy began, Watson was losing money and he enlisted other Detroit drug traffickers to travel to West Virginia and sell more heroin. Watson would provide these Detroit drug dealers with firearms to protect the heroin. Upwards of $40,000 was being made in a given day at this residence. One witness described the house similar to a fast-food restaurant. Another witness described selling drugs out of the house from sun up to sunset.
Watson’s conspiracy ended on November 17, 2017, when the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department responded to the Hernshaw residence because a person fatally overdosed from drugs purchased at the location. Prior to law enforcement arriving, Watson dropped off more heroin and a Hi-Point firearm, and left the area.
After a federal grand jury indicted Watson on November 27, 2018, his first jury trial was scheduled on August 12, 2019. On the day the trial was set to begin, a cooperating witness was threatened by Watson because the witness was cooperating with the government. When Watson saw the witness at the federal courthouse, he yelled at the witness, “I got you! I got you!” After the encounter with Watson, the witness became concerned for their safety and was afraid to testify. Subsequently, the federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment against Watson on September 18, 2019, adding a charge for tampering with a witness.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the United States Marshals Service (USMS), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. 119 Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, the West Virginia State Police, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department and the Marmet Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger 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. 2:18-cr-00279.
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Michigan Man Pleads Guilty to Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced that Steven McGee, 51, of Michigan, pled guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of heroin. He faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 7, 2021.
“I commend the Huntington Police Department for their tireless efforts to stem the tide of the opioid epidemic,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “Their work continues to make Huntington a safer place to live.”
McGee admitted that on February 24, 2020, he directed the distribution of heroin to a confidential informant in the area of 24th Street and 10th Avenue in Huntington.
The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joe 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. 3:20-cr-00170.
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Fayette County Woman Sentenced to Nearly 6 Years in Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced that Trina Tellez-Mullins, 36, of Oak Hill, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
“The excellent investigative work of DEA prevented approximately 433 grams of meth from being distributed in our communities,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “It is only by working closely with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners that we can ensure defendants like Tellez-Mullins are held accountable.”
Tellez-Mullins previously pled guilty and admitted that on September 28, 2017, she possessed approximately 433.1 grams of methamphetamine at the Greyhound station in Beckley which she intended to distribute. Law enforcement had interdicted the drug package that was en route from California via Greyhound bus to Tellez-Mullins in Beckley. Federal agents arranged a controlled delivery and arrested Tellez-Mullins at the Beckley bus station when she accepted the package of methamphetamine.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Nick Miller 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. 5:20-cr-00119.
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Lisa G. Johnston Named Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of West VirginiaRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Lisa G. Johnston will serve as Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia, according to the United States Attorney's Office.
U.S. Attorney Lisa JohnstonJohnston was selected to serve as the Acting U.S. Attorney by the Executive Office of United States Attorneys in Washington D.C. after former U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart announced his resignation effective February 28.
“I am truly humbled and honored to serve as the Acting U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of West Virginia. The important work of the public servants in the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the district and their dedication to justice will continue,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa Johnston. “We look forward to working with our dedicated law enforcement partners who work hard to ensure the safety of our communities.”
Johnston is a career prosecutor who joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of West Virginia in August 2006. In 2010, she was named the Project Safe Childhood Coordinator for the district. Throughout her lengthy career with the Department of Justice, Johnston prosecuted numerous sexual exploitation cases as well as federal cases involving firearms, arson, drugs and health care fraud.
Johnston assumed the duties of First Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of West Virginia in January 2018, providing guidance to the Civil, Criminal, and Administrative Divisions of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of West Virginia, she was employed as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney and then as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Northern District of West Virginia from 1988 until 2006.
Johnston will serve as the Acting U.S. Attorney until President Biden makes a nomination and confirmation takes place.
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.
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Man Pleads Guilty to Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced that Christopher Moore, 47, from Detroit, Michigan, and currently living in Jackson County, West Virginia, pled guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
Moore was previously convicted of three felony drug offenses related to the distribution of cocaine base, and he spent over 14 years in federal prison. On June 27, 2020, Moore possessed a loaded Taurus 9mm pistol which was used to shoot and kill a visitor at his house in Kenna. Moore faces up to ten years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release when he is sentenced on June 3, 2021.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Steve Loew 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-00002.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug Crime and Violation of Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced that Derrick Pritchett, 37, of Huntington, was sentenced to a total of 36 months in prison for his conviction for a drug offense and a violation of supervised release. Pritchett previously pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and marijuana.
Pritchett admitted that on December 5, 2019, Troopers with the West Virginia State Police searched his vehicle located on Artisan Avenue in Huntington. Troopers located approximately 17 grams of heroin and 56 grams of marijuana. Pritchett was on supervised release when he committed the drug offense. Pritchett was sentenced to 21 months in prison for the drug offense. In a separate proceeding, Pritchett was sentenced to 15 months in prison for violating his supervised release. The sentences were ordered to run consecutive to one another for a total of 36 months in prison.
The West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. 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. 3:20-cr-00034.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to Prison for Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced that Trent S. Davis, 30, of Huntington, was sentenced to 87 months in prison and 20 years of supervised release for possession of child pornography involving prepubescent minors. Davis will also be required to register as a sex offender after his release from prison.
Davis previously admitted that on April 27, 2020, he arranged with a person he believed to be the parent to two minor females, ages 12 and 14, to travel from his job in Eleanor, Putnam County, West Virginia, to Ashland, Kentucky, in order to engage in sexual activity with both minor girls. On the way to the meeting location, Davis stopped to purchase condoms to use during the sexual activity. Davis was arrested when he arrived at the meeting location in Ashland, Kentucky. A subsequent search of his cell phone revealed numerous images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, including videos depicting the sexual abuse of toddlers and images and videos depicting sadistic conduct. A search of Davis’s residence located additional computer equipment that also contained child sexual abuse materials.
The Ashland (Kentucky) Police Department and the FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald 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-00072.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced today that Gregory Scott Broce, 50, of Huntington, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine.
Broce previously pled guilty and admitted that on July 6, 2019, he was driving a vehicle near 11th Avenue and 22nd Street in Huntington when a West Virginia State Police trooper pulled him over due to a report of the vehicle being stolen. Upon a search of the vehicle, the trooper found multiple baggies containing approximately 10.7 grams of crack cocaine and 3.4 grams of heroin. Digital scales and multiple empty baggies were located on Broce’s person.
The West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe is 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-00020.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to 21 Months in Prison for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced that Kelly Ray Ingels, Sr., 46, of Huntington, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Ingels also was sentenced to 12 months in prison for the sale of a firearm to a juvenile, which is to run concurrently with his 21 month sentence.
Ingels previously pled guilty and admitted that on May 20, 2020, he sold a firearm to a juvenile for cash and marijuana over Facebook Messenger. Due to a subsequent investigation involving the firearm, officers obtained a search warrant for Ingels’ residence at 920 ½ 23rd Street in Huntington. In the residence officers located approximately 11 grams of methamphetamine as well as digital scales. In a Mirandized interview, Ingels admitted to possessing the methamphetamine to sell it, admitted he was addicted to methamphetamine at the time he possessed the gun, and admitted to selling the gun to the juvenile.
The Huntington Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. 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-00140.
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Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced that Seneca Smith, 36, of Huntington, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine.
Smith admitted that on January 12, 2021, members of the Huntington Police Department executed a search warrant at his residence at 406 Bridge Street, Apartment 32, in Huntington. Officers seized approximately 206 grams of heroin, 62 grams of cocaine, four sets of digital scales, and a drug press. Smith admitted he intended to sell the heroin and cocaine.
Smith faces up to twenty years in prison when sentenced on June 1, 2021.
The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor 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. 3:21-cr-00004.
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Clendenin Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Terry L. Spradlin, 34, of Clendenin, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Spradlin admitted that on August 31, 2019, officers with the Dunbar Police Department encountered him before opening hours in Shawnee Park in Dunbar. Spradlin admitted he possessed a firearm which had travelled in interstate commerce and which he had strapped in a holster. Spradlin further admitted he had a prior felony conviction for first degree robbery in the Circuit Court of Roane County and was prohibited from possessing the firearm.
Spradlin faces up to 10 years in prison when sentenced on May 20, 2021.
The Dunbar Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Negar M. 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. 2:20-cr-00161.
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Michigan Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Devon Lamar Lockridge, 34, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for possessing with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Lockridge was previously charged as a result of a traffic stop in the city of Beckley.
“After being caught in Beckley with approximately 800 grams of meth and 46 grams of heroin, this Detroit drug dealer will spend five years in federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Our law enforcement partners working in the Beckley, Raleigh County area do an excellent job of protecting their communities from drug dealers like Lockridge.”
Lockridge previously admitted that on August 12, 2020, he was a passenger in a taxi in Beckley that was pulled over by police for speeding. During the traffic stop, officers smelled marijuana. Lockridge admitted to smoking marijuana. A drug detecting canine also indicated to the presence of controlled substances in the taxi. Based on this information, officers searched the car. During the search, officers found a bag belonging to Lockridge. In the bag, officers found almost 800 grams of methamphetamine packaged in fourteen separate bags, and approximately 46 grams of heroin. Lockridge admitted that he knew the drugs were in that bag and that he intended to distribute the drugs to others.
Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, (ATF), the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the Beckley Police Department, and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit. Each agency provided additional and essential support throughout this investigation.
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. 5:20-cr-00155.
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Federal Inmates Plead Guilty to Weapon ChargesRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. -- United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that two federal inmates pled guilty to possessing weapons. Jerry Stewart, 31, and Elijio Perez, 30, inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) at Beckley, both admitted to possessing a handcrafted weapon, commonly known as a “shank.”
Stewart admitted that on February 13, 2020, he possessed a handcrafted weapon known as a shank while he was an inmate at the FCI Beckley. A staff member at the prison saw Stewart place the shank on the ground in the compound at the prison after an incident with another inmate. A staff member then recovered the weapon. The weapon was a piece of metal about six inches long, sharpened to a point on one end with a cloth handle on the other end.
Perez admitted that on March 31, 2020, he also possessed a handcrafted weapon while he was an inmate at the FCI Beckley. Perez admitted that 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.
Both defendants admitted that the shanks were designed and intended to be used as weapons.
Both Stewart and Perez face up to five years in prison, to be served consecutively to the sentences they are now serving. Sentencing for both defendants is set for June 11, 2021.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is handling the prosecutions. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the plea hearings.
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. 5:20-cr-000204(Stewart) and 5:21-cr-00001(Perez).
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Ten for Their Roles in Methamphetamine Trafficking Organization Operating in CharlestonRead the Press Release
Five Others Charged in Federal Criminal Complaints
Approximately 15 Pounds of Meth, 45 Firearms including a Fully Automatic Weapon, and More Than $375,000 Seized
CHARLESTON, W.Va. - United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that a federal grand jury has returned two indictments charging 10 individuals for their roles in a drug trafficking organization (DTO), with ties to the Bloods and Gangster Disciples criminal gangs, responsible for distributing large quantities of meth in the Charleston area. Joining Stuart for the announcement were Drug Enforcement Administration Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) Jack Sparks, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) ASAC Lissa Jordan, Charleston Police Chief Tyke Hunt, MDENT Commander Ryan Higginbotham, U.S. Marshal Michael Baylous, and Appalachia HIDTA West Virginia State Coordinator Chad Napier.
Charged in a 15 count indictment are Jermaine Williams, 20; Tyjaha Watson, 26; Memphis Ross, 20; Dante Williams, 24; Joshua Lawson, 30; and Darius Coles, 23, all of Charleston; as well as Myreo Dixon, 34, of Michigan: Elijah Figg, 21, of Huntington; and Kassie McNeeley, 21, of Lesage. The indictment charges the nine defendants with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in and around Charleston from July 2020 to February 2021. The indictment further charges various drug and gun crimes carried out in connection with the DTO. In a separate indictment, Erica Ratliff, 36, of Charleston, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. During the course of the investigation, which spanned nearly a year, law enforcement seized approximately 15 pounds of methamphetamine, 45 firearms, including a fully automatic weapon, and more than $375,000 in cash.
In addition, Maylik Watson, 27, Devonte Lavauhn Andrews, 28, Sydni Watson, 29, and William Edward Byers II, 44, all of Charleston, and Jaquan Jeremiah Wright, 22, of New York, have been charged by federal criminal complaints in connection with this investigation.
“From Day 1, my priority has been keeping the good people of West Virginia safe. The West Side has been a source of violence and calamity for too long. No more,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Throughout my tenure as U.S. Attorney, I have been laser focused on improving public safety on Charleston’s West Side. My team has been committed to working with our federal, state and local partners to rid the community of violence and poison peddling. The dismantling of this network of violent meth traffickers is a big win for law enforcement and the West Side community.”
“For too long, this gang has been a blight on Charleston,” said Special Agent in Charge Todd Scott, head of DEA’s Louisville Division. “Between the violent acts they’ve committed and the drugs they’ve distributed throughout the community, Maylik Watson and his associates have shown little to no regard for human life. Thanks to the dedicated men and women of DEA and our law enforcement partners, the people of Charleston can sleep more soundly, knowing these people are off the streets.”
“All too often, drug dealers use firearms to further their criminal activities,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow, of the Louisville Field Division. “This drug trafficking organization threatened the safety of the Charleston community with both meth and firearms. Working with our law enforcement partners, ATF provides significant resources to prosecute these offenders and remove them from our West Virginia communities.”
The long-term investigation, dubbed the “Woo Boyz,” was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Charleston Police Department, and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police. The Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) provided critical support to the investigative agencies.
Assistant United States Attorney Monica 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.
Please note: An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and 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 Nos. 2:21-cr-00032(Williams, et al.), 2:21-cr-00033(Ratliff), 2:21-MJ-00021(M. Watson), 2:21-MJ-00026(D. Andrews), 2:21-MJ-00025(J. Wright), 2:21-MJ-00045(S. Watson) and 2:21-MJ-00046(Byers).
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Project Parkersburg Update: Parkersburg Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Michael Rhodes, 41, of Parkersburg, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Rhodes was prosecuted as part of Project Parkersburg – a major takedown and dismantling of a poly-drug, multi-state drug trafficking organization (DTO).
“Project Parkersburg was a huge success,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “As a result of this lengthy investigation, a major DTO responsible for distributing significant amounts of methamphetamine in and around Parkersburg was shut down. At least 29 individuals were charged in federal and state court and 121 pounds of ICE methamphetamine, six kilograms of cocaine, 217 grams of heroin and 478 grams of fentanyl were seized.”
Rhodes previously pled guilty and admitted to distributing methamphetamine in and around Parkersburg. At the sentencing hearing, United States District Judge Irene C. Berger noted that Rhodes had traveled from Parkersburg to Arizona and California in 2018 and that records showed calls and money transfers from Parkersburg to Sinaloa, Mexico. The Court also found that Rhodes received methamphetamine in one and two pound quantities at a time from co-defendant Terrance McGuirk. The Court further noted that Rhodes’ intercepted communications revealed that he owed $80,000 to his supplier and that he was distributing user and low-level dealer quantities of methamphetamine to people in Parkersburg.
Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Parkersburg Police Department, the Dayton (Ohio) Police Department, and the Parkersburg Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force. Of the defendants charged in federal court, Terrence McGuirk, Todd Land, Jeffrey Hoyler, Nicholas Easton, T.J. Gibson, Edward Marks, Amy Rake, Marshall Polan, Troy Pastorino, Michael Holley, Colleen Moyle, Amanda Atkinson, and Michael Rhodes have been sentenced. Aurelius Edmonds awaits sentencing later this year. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Joshua Hanks and Jeremy Wolfe 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. 2:18-cr-00225.
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Charleston Man Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Federal Firearm CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Jymere Alan Pratt, 23, of Charleston, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. He will begin serving this sentence after he has completed serving sentences on unrelated felony cases from Monongalia and Kanawha counties. Following his release from prison on this case, he will be subject to three years of supervised release.
Pratt previously pled guilty and admitted that he possessed a Smith and Wesson M&P Shield 9mm pistol in the early morning hours of May 24th, 2019, near the intersection of Tennessee Avenue and Randolph Street on Charleston’s west side. Law enforcement responded to the location after learning that the vehicle was parked across the sidewalk and into the bushes of a nearby business with all the occupants unconscious. Once officers arrived, they were able to observe Pratt, the driver, wearing a bag with a shoulder strap which he placed in the back seat prior to exiting the vehicle. Officers later searched the vehicle, finding a pistol and several rounds of ammunition inside the bag. Pratt was prohibited by law from possessing firearms due to a previous conviction for robbery in the second degree in Monongalia County Circuit Court on August 14, 2017. Pratt was still on probation from that conviction when this incident occurred.
The Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). United States District Judge Irene 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. 2:20-cr-00049.
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St. Albans Man Sentenced to Prison for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Karzell Rose, 29, of St. Albans, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for distribution of heroin.
“I commend MDENT’s relentless efforts to shut down poison peddlers throughout Kanawha County,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Our communities are safer as a result of their work.”
Rose previously pled guilty and admitted that on January 23, 2020, he sold approximately 3 grams of heroin to a confidential informant at his residence in St. Albans. On January 28, 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant at that residence and located an additional amount of heroin, digital scales and two guns. Rose admitted that he intended to distribute the heroin.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Monica 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. 2:20-cr-00082.
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Operation X-Nation: New York Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Keith Blakely, also known as “Bumpy,” 42, of New York, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute oxycodone, oxymorphone, and hydromorphone. Blakely was charged as a result of a long-term, multi-state investigation known as Operation X-Nation.
“Blakely had oxycodone, oxymorphone, hydromorphone, guns and cash,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “He’s the latest of a number of prescription pill dealers held accountable as a result of Operation X-Nation.”
Blakely admitted that between August 2017 and August 31, 2019, he participated in a drug trafficking organization that was operating in and around Princeton. He admitted that he had telephone conversations intercepted by law enforcement officers. During many of these conversations, he 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 admitted to making several drug distributions to informants that he now knows were cooperating with law enforcement officers. Lastly, he admitted that officers conducted a search on August 30, 2019 of the apartment he was living in near Bluefield. During the search officers found large quantities of oxymorphone, oxycodone, and hydromorphone pills that Blakely intended to distribute, along with three firearms, and approximately $69,962 in cash. As part of his plea agreement, he admitted that the cash was proceeds from his drug trafficking activity and further agreed to forfeit the cash and the firearms to the United States.
Blakely faces up to twenty years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million when he is sentenced on June 1, 2021. After serving a term of imprisonment, Blakely will serve at least three years of supervised release.
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 conducted the investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
This case was brought under 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. 1:19-cr-00307.
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West Virginia Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug Crime and Violation of Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Jay James Fields, 38, was sentenced to a total of 57 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin and violating his supervised release.
“Fields was still on supervised release from a previous conviction when he was found with 37 grams of meth and 3.5 grams of heroin in his car,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “He will now be headed back to prison for nearly five more years.”
Fields previously pled guilty and admitted that on June 12, 2020, officers searched his vehicle and found approximately 37 grams of methamphetamine and 3.5 grams of heroin. He admitted he intended to sell these substances. Fields was on supervised release when he committed the drug offense. Fields was sentenced to 33 months for the drug offense, and in a separate proceeding, he was sentenced to 24 months in prison for violating his supervised release. The sentences were ordered to run consecutively to one another for a total of 57 months in prison.
The Logan County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentences. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie 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. 2:20-cr-00149.
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Two Huntington Men Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that two Huntington men were sentenced to federal prison by United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
“Great work by the Huntington Police Department,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Two more drug dealers are off of city streets.”
Desean Briscoe, 30, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for possession with the intent to distribute heroin and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Briscoe previously pled guilty and admitted that on January 23, 2020, officers executed a search warrant at his residence at 850 Bronson Court in Huntington. Officers found two firearms. After he was arrested and taken to the Huntington Police Department, Briscoe told officers he had heroin hidden on his person. Officers retrieved approximately 16 grams of heroin from Briscoe. Briscoe was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a 2015 felony conviction out of Wayne County for attempt to deliver a controlled substance.
In a separate case, Matthew Thomas, also known as “Rico Dolla,” and “PJ,” 29, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for distributing heroin and possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine base. Thomas previously pled guilty and admitted that in May and June 2019 he sold heroin on three occasions to a confidential informant in Huntington. Thomas also admitted that on June 19, 2019, officers with the Huntington Police Department searched his residence and found approximately 30 grams of heroin and 8 grams of cocaine base. Officers also found a drug press. Thomas admitted he intended to sell the heroin and cocaine base.
The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecutions.
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. 3:20-cr-00040 (Briscoe) and 3:20-cr-00137 (Thomas).
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Ohio Man Sentenced for Role in Akron to Huntington Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Robert Von Wilson, 24, of Ohio, was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Wilson participated in a conspiracy that saw large quantities of methamphetamine shipped from Akron, Ohio, and sold in Huntington.
“Wilson had 1.7 kilos of 100% pure meth,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I commend the FBI and their law enforcement partners for shutting down this meth pipeline coming into Huntington from Akron.”
Wilson previously pled guilty and admitted that he and others involved in the conspiracy utilized a residence at 1235 25th Street in Huntington to store methamphetamine after it was shipped from Akron. Wilson also admitted that he was present at 1235 25th Street on June 6, 2019, when investigators executed a search warrant at the residence. During the search, investigators seized over 1.7 kilograms of methamphetamine. Wilson admitted that he possessed the methamphetamine and intended to distribute it in the Huntington area. The methamphetamine was later examined by a chemist and determined to be 100% pure.
This joint investigation was spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Other agencies which participated and assisted in the investigation include 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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Cross Lanes Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Derrick Clark, 30, of Cross Lanes, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Clark faces up to ten years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 21, 2021.
On April 13, 2017, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on Clark’s apartment in Cross Lanes. Inside, officers located three handguns: a black, semi-automatic 9mm Taurus; a black, .32 caliber semi-automatic Savage; and a black, 9mm semi-automatic C9 Highpoint. Officers also located assorted ammunition. Clark was prohibited from possessing the firearms due to a previous felony conviction in Kanawha County Circuit Court for fleeing in a vehicle with reckless indifference to the safety of others.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
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-00103.
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Georgia Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Brandon Quane Hudson, 36, of Macon, Georgia, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
“Hudson had four previous felony convictions when he was caught with meth, crack, and a gun in Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I commend law enforcement for their work to hold this repeat offender accountable.”
Hudson admitted that on August 20, 2019, members of the Huntington Violent Crime Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at his residence in Huntington. Officers located approximately 17.41 grams of crack cocaine and 4 grams of methamphetamine. Hudson admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine and crack cocaine for money. Officers also located a Ruger EC9s, 9mm pistol and 8 rounds of 9mm ammunition, which Hudson admitted were in his possession. Hudson also admitted that he knew he was a convicted felon and that he was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Hudson has three previous felony convictions in Georgia as well as a prior felony conviction in Cabell County Circuit Court.
Hudson faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on May 24, 2021.
The Huntington Police Department, the Huntington Violent Crime Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Courtney L. Cremeans is handling the prosecution.
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Detroit Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Quandale Turk, also known as “Q”, 43, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 16 months in prison for his conviction on federal drug charges. Turk previously pled guilty to an indictment charging him with two counts of aiding and abetting the distribution of heroin.
“Throughout my tenure as U.S. Attorney, my team has worked in close partnership with law enforcement to get poison peddlers off the streets of Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Without question, we have made a difference.”
Turk admitted that on February 16, 2017 and May 1, 2017, he directed Dahran Montgomery to distribute heroin to a confidential informant in Huntington.
The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. 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-00213.
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Detroit Man Pleads Guilty to Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Lamont Thomas, 42, of Detroit, Michigan, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine and a quantity of heroin.
“This Detroit drug dealer brought eight pounds of meth and some heroin into Charleston for distribution,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Great work by the Charleston Police Department and DEA to catch Thomas soon after he got off of the bus.”
Thomas admitted that on May 14, 2020, he traveled from Detroit to Charleston by Greyhound bus. He further admitted that he was a passenger in a vehicle stopped by officers of the Charleston Police Department after leaving the Greyhound Bus Station. When a drug K-9 alerted on Thomas’s backpack, officers searched it and found approximately eight pounds of methamphetamine and approximately 61 grams of suspected heroin. Thomas admitted that the drugs were his and that he intended to distribute the controlled substances.
Thomas faces a minimum of five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when sentenced on May 17, 2021.
The Charleston Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Monica 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. 2:20-cr-00198.
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New York Felon Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Darrell Lowers, 39, of New York, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of ammunition.
Lowers previously pled guilty and admitted that on January 21, 2020, when officers with the Charleston Police Department were dispatched to a residence in response to a report of shots fired, he was detained inside the residence and .45 caliber Winchester ammunition was recovered from his truck. Lowers was on parole out of New York at the time he committed this offense. He has prior felony convictions for second degree burglary in 2013, third degree arson in 2011, and attempted second degree assault in 2007. These convictions all occurred in New York.
The case was investigated by the Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. 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. 2:20-cr-00118.
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United States Attorney Mike Stuart Announces His ResignationRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced he will resign as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia effective February 28, 2021. Stuart’s resignation letter to President Joseph Biden is attached.
2021.0212_-_mbs_to_joe_biden_re_resignation_0.pdf
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