Southern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Inmate Sentenced for Having Weapon at FCI BeckleyRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. - United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Troy Covington, 20, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Beckley, was sentenced to 12 months in prison, to run consecutively to the sentence he currently is serving, for possessing a weapon at the facility. He also was sentenced to three years of supervised release following his imprisonment.
“For possessing a makeshift weapon in the prison, Covington added another year to his prison stay,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I commend the staff of the Federal Bureau of Prisons for their vigilant efforts to maintain a secure environment within correctional facilities.”
Covington admitted that on February 8, 2020, he possessed a handcrafted weapon, commonly referred to as a “shank,” while he was an inmate at the FCI Beckley. The “shank” was a four inch piece of plexiglass sharpened to a point on one end, with a handle made of tape on the other end. A staff member with the FCI Beckley found the shank concealed in a pair of shorts Covington was wearing. Covington admitted that the shank was designed and intended to be used as a weapon.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk 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. 5:20-cr-00178.
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Operation Second Wave Update: Three Men Appear in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that three defendants charged in Operation Second Wave made appearances in federal court. Gregory Eugene Woods, 43, of Dunbar, was sentenced to a total of 184 months in federal prison. He was sentenced as a career offender to 160 months for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, followed by a consecutive term of 24 months based upon his supervised release violation. Jason Michael Terrell, 37, of Mt. Carbon, and Jimmy Lee Coleman, 35, of Falls View, pled guilty conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Woods, Terrell, and Coleman are three of the 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.
“Operation Second Wave shut down a significant poly-drug network. Kanawha and Fayette counties are no doubt safer as a result,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I commend all of the federal, state and local law enforcement agencies that worked on this case. It is through their relentless, collaborative efforts that we can hold drug dealers accountable for their crimes.”
Woods previously pled guilty and admitted that on April 21, 2020, the Charleston Police Department stopped him when he was on his way to deliver cocaine to Terrell. A search of Woods’ vehicle resulted in the seizure of over two ounces of cocaine. He was on federal supervised release at the time of the stop based upon being convicted in 2015 in the Southern District of West Virginia of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and use of a telephone to facilitate drug trafficking. Woods had additional previous felony convictions including three convictions for possession with intent to deliver marijuana, one conviction for possession with intent to deliver Ecstasy, and another conviction for unlawful wounding.
Terrell admitted distributing multiple pounds of methamphetamine along with quantities of heroin and cocaine in and around Montgomery between July 2019 and August 26, 2020. He further admitted traveling with two co-defendants to Columbus, Ohio where they purchased approximately two pounds of methamphetamine and brought it back to West Virginia to sell. Coleman admitted to selling more than a pound of methamphetamine between January and August 2020.
Coleman faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on April 26, 2021. Terrell faces at least ten years and up to life in prison when he is sentenced on May 17, 2021.
Other defendants, including Larry Terrence Martin, Sammy Joe Fragale, Sr., and Sammy Joe Fragale II, have also pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Carol Lynn Belton, 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 Hanks is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:20-cr-00153 (Woods) and 2:20-cr-00154 (Terrell et al).
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Beckley Woman Pleads Guilty to Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. –United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Breyanna Wilkerson, of Beckley, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin. Wilkerson faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on May 10, 2021.
“Wilkerson was caught in Huntington with 91 grams of heroin and fentanyl,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “There is no doubt that by seizing these dangerous controlled substances, the excellent work of law enforcement prevented a number of overdoses.”
Wilkerson admitted that on May 2, 2019, officers searched her hotel room at the Days Inn on Route 60 in Huntington. Wilkerson told the officers everything in the room belonged to her. Officers found 91 grams of heroin and fentanyl in the nightstand.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West 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. 3:19-cr-00205.
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Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Luis Eduardo Martinez-Torres, 23, of Mexico, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for aiding and abetting possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine.
“Deadly - meth and black tar heroin,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Great work by law enforcement to intercept these drugs and remove poison peddlers from the streets of Huntington.”
Officers executed a search warrant on June 5, 2019 in Huntington. Martinez-Torres and other individuals were in the home at the time of the search warrant. Officers found methamphetamine and heroin in the home. Martinez-Torres previously pled guilty and admitted that he aided and abetted other individuals in possessing with the intent to distribute 340 grams of methamphetamine and 453 grams of black tar heroin in Huntington.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department conducted the joint 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. 3:19-cr-00281.
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Florida Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Thomas Drew Bess, 39, of Florida, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
“It’s 30 years in prison for Bess who mailed more than 18 pounds of meth from Los Angeles to Charleston,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “It was the great teamwork between the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the DEA, the U.S. Postal Service-OIG, the West Virginia National Guard and my office that kept this shipment of 96% pure meth from being sold throughout our communities.”
Bess previously pled guilty and admitted that on September 1, 2019, he flew from Florida to Los Angeles, California. While there, Bess mailed a package that contained approximately 18.25 pounds of methamphetamine to Charleston. The package was picked up by a John Harvey Bush, Jr., and the methamphetamine was intended to be sold in the Charleston area. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) intercepted the package on September 4, 2019. Upon obtaining a search warrant for the package, they discovered over 18 pounds of methamphetamine inside. The majority of the methamphetamine was removed, except for 11.2 grams, which remained inside the package in order to conduct a controlled delivery. As law enforcement was delivering the package, the National Guard provided helicopter surveillance of the area. Bush was recorded driving to the residence and taking the package from the front porch. He then drove the package to his girlfriend’s residence, where he unloaded and opened the package, and discovered only 11.2 grams of methamphetamine. He attempted to flush the shipping label to the package. Shortly afterwards, law enforcement knocked on the front door of the girlfriend’s residence. Bush saw them through the window and was arrested as he tried to flee out the back door. Bush’s cell phone was seized and searched pursuant to a federal search warrant, where it became apparent that Bess had told Bush of the contents of the package, its tracking number, and when it would be arriving. The methamphetamine was sent to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) laboratory, where it tested 96% pure. Bess was subsequently arrested in Florida and brought to the Southern District of West Virginia on an indictment. Bess’ phone was searched pursuant to a federal warrant, wherein evidence of drug trafficking and distribution were discovered. Bush pled guilty and was sentenced to 51 months in prison.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the United States Postal Service - Office of Inspector General, and the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) conducted the investigation. The West Virginia National Guard assisted law enforcement with the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00024.
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Fayette County Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Eddie McKinney, 33, of Mt. Hope, pled guilty to distribution and attempted distribution of prepubescent child pornography.
“Child pornographers like McKinney pose grave danger to our most vulnerable,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The work of the FBI and their federal, state and local law enforcement partners is critical to removing these offenders from our communities and keeping West Virginia’s children safe.”
McKinney admitted that on December 3, 2015, he distributed child pornography using peer-to-peer file sharing software. He admitted that he knowingly possessed and distributed to others images depicting a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Law enforcement recovered over 600 images of child pornography from his home, including images involving sadistic and masochist conduct.
McKinney faces a minimum of five years in prison and up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on May 6, 2021.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00142.
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U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart: Office Collects a Total of More Than $32 Million for Taxpayers in FYs 2019 & 2020Read the Press Release
Office Collections over Budget
Exceed $18.4 Million over Two Year Period
Collections Exceed Budget Over Period by more than 135%
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that his office collected $9,244,423.94 in FY 2020 and $22,761,541.52 in FY 2019, an amount more than $18.4 million over his office’s entire annual appropriated budgets for the same period. Of this amount, $29,082,086.10 was collected in civil actions and $2,923,879.33 was collected in criminal actions. The operating budget for the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia during the time period was approximately $13.6 million. Total collections exceeded the office’s budget by more than 135%.
“I am very proud of the incredible efforts of my team. During the last two fiscal years, our efforts brought in more than $18.4 million over the cost of all operations. In private sector terms, that’s called ‘remarkably profitable.’ A return for taxpayers in excess of 135% over two years is a return for which even the best companies would be proud, but we don’t do this to make a profit. We don’t do this to make money. We do this to deliver justice to victims, the taxpayers and our citizens,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The $18.4 million and 135% return represents a remarkable victory for victims and taxpayers. The $32 million collected by my office over the last two fiscal years demonstrates the significant return on investment that our work delivers. The substantial amount only includes the actual amounts collected and not the full amount of monies due as a result of our great work. Restitution often takes many years to realize. The taxpayers are the beneficiaries of great teamwork by my entire team and our federal, state and local law enforcement partners. We all share a commitment to ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used prudently and properly and that wrongdoers are held accountable for financial losses resulting from their crimes.”
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the Department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the Department’s Crime Victims’ Fund, which distributes the funds to state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
The largest civil collections were from affirmative civil enforcement cases, in which the United States recovered government money lost to fraud or other misconduct or collected fines imposed on individuals and/or corporations for violations of federal healthcare, safety, civil rights or environmental laws. In addition, civil debts were collected on behalf of several federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on behalf of Medicare and Medicaid, the Internal Revenue Service, the Small Business Administration and the Department of Education.
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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Two Felons Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that two felons were sentenced to federal prison for gun crimes.
John Brady Studenic, 33, of Parkersburg, a member of the Pagans Motorcycle Club, was sentenced to 42 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Upon release, he will be under supervised release for an additional three years. The United States requested, and the Court imposed, a sentence above the range recommended by the United States Sentencing Guidelines for this case due to Studenic’s history of violence. Studenic previously admitted that he was riding a motorcycle on 7th Street in Parkersburg when an officer with the Parkersburg Police Department attempted to perform a traffic stop on him for running a red light at the intersection of 7th Street and Park Avenue. Once the officer activated his overhead lights and siren, Studenic fled eastbound on 7th Street toward Core Road. In the process, he was travelling approximately 90 miles per hour in a 35 mile per hour zone. Studenic passed multiple vehicles using either a turning lane or the oncoming lane, and ran an additional red light at the intersection of 7th Street and Fairview Avenue during the pursuit. Eventually, he wrecked the motorcycle on Core Road and was taken into custody following a brief physical struggle which he initiated by charging the arresting officer. Upon being apprehended, his person was searched and a loaded Taurus 9mm semi-automatic pistol was located in his waistband. Additional ammunition as well as approximately 20 grams of methamphetamine and a small amount of marijuana were also found in Studenic’s possession. Studenic was not legally permitted to possess a firearm due to a previous conviction for the felony offense of malicious assault on September 22, 2010, in Wood County Circuit Court. That prior conviction is the result of Studenic shooting another individual. The Parkersburg Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe is handling the prosecution.
Ronald Sayles, 43, of Charleston, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. He also was sentenced to a concurrent term of eight months in prison for violating terms of his supervised release related to an underlying federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Sayles admitted that on September 18, 2020, he was a passenger in a vehicle that crashed on Washington Street, East, in Charleston. When responding officers conducted a pat down of Sayles, they located a Ruger LC9, 9mm pistol in his jacket pocket. Sayles admitted to police officers that he knew he was prohibited from possessing the gun because of two prior felony convictions. In 2016, Sayles was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia and, in 2002, he was convicted in Kanawha County Circuit Court of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance. Sayles was still serving a term of federal supervised release in connection with the 2016 conviction. The Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Negar Kordestani handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:20-cr-00165 and 2:20-cr-00181.
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Georgia Man Sentenced to over 22 Years in Prison for Role in Conspiracy to Commit Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Darrell Gillespie, of Smyrna, Georgia, was sentenced to 265 months in federal prison for his role in a conspiracy to commit armed home invasions of drug dealers. Gillespie was convicted after a nearly three week jury trial in January 2015. The federal jury found Gillespie and his co-defendant, Jamaa Johnson, 36, of Wytheville, Virginia, guilty of conspiracy to commit armed robbery and using firearms in crimes of violence, as well as obstruction of justice charges. Johnson previously was sentenced to over 19 years in prison for his role in the conspiracy.
“Gillespie and his co-conspirators committed a string of armed home invasions, wreaking havoc in multiple states for months,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I commend the work of the investigative agencies and my team that got this violent crew off our streets.”
The conspiracy involved armed robberies dating back to the fall of 2011 in Pittsburgh. Gillespie, joined by others involved in the conspiracy, traveled to Pittsburgh to rob a drug dealer. After the robbery, the men came back to Charleston to split up marijuana stolen in the robbery. Over the next four months, Gillespie, Johnson, or their co-conspirators, participated in six more robberies in West Virginia and Virginia. All involved firearms, and during a January 18, 2012, robbery in Charleston, the victim was shot in the leg and stabbed.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the South Charleston Police Department, and the Charleston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Monica D. Coleman 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. 2:13-cr-00091.
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Former Detroit Man Sentenced to over 15 Years in Prison for Drug Dealing OffensesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Ralph Weathington, Jr., 28, of Charleston, formerly of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 188 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine, distribution of fentanyl, and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl, and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Weathington was previously found guilty of each crime by a jury of his peers. Following his release from prison, he will serve 10 years of supervised release.
“Weathington was dealing meth, fentanyl and cocaine in Charleston,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “As a result of the excellent work of DEA, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Charleston Police Department, MDENT and my prosecutors, he won’t be peddling poisons in our community any longer.”
Evidence presented during the jury trial established that on January 22, 2018, the defendant met with a confidential informant working with the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Charleston and sold the informant approximately two ounces of methamphetamine. Later, on January 30, 2018, the defendant again met with a confidential informant on the West Side of Charleston and sold the informant approximately 3.5 grams of fentanyl. Finally, on May 22, 2019, the defendant was present at an apartment in Charleston when officers with the United States Marshals Service and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office discovered him holding a gray article of clothing that appeared to be wrapped around another object. The defendant was standing next to an open window as he held this object, and he threw it out the window when ordered by an officer to show his hands. An officer with the Charleston Police Department observed several objects falling from the window to the ground, and moved to secure the evidence which was found to be approximately 111 grams of methamphetamine, 18 grams of fentanyl, 27 grams of cocaine, United States currency, a silver weight used to calibrate a digital scale, a small shoebox and a gray sweatshirt. An officer with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) arrived on scene and collected the drug-related evidence. Then, with the assistance of other officers, the apartment was searched and 18 additional grams of fentanyl were located along with a semi-automatic pistol, two digital scales and additional United States currency.
The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Charleston Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy B. Wolfe and Monica D. Coleman handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:19-cr-00174.
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Raleigh County Woman Sentenced to a Total of 54 Months in Prison for Conspiracy to Obstruct Justice and Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
Defendant’s husband also pled guilty in January for his role in the conspiracy to fake her death at the New River Gorge
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Julie M. Wheeler received a sentence of 12 months and one day for her role in a federal conspiracy to obstruct justice. Wheeler’s sentence was ordered to be served consecutively to her 42 month sentence previously imposed for her federal health care fraud conviction. The consecutive sentence increases Julie Wheeler’s total sentence of incarceration to 54 months of federal incarceration. In a separate criminal hearing last month, Rodney Wheeler pled guilty to the federal felony offense of conspiracy to obstruct justice. Rodney Wheeler faces up to five years of incarceration, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release when he is sentenced on April 5, 2021.
“Julie Wheeler faked a traumatic death to avoid her judgment day with the courts. While she was found hiding in a closet she was also hiding from justice. The scheme put many lives at risk and wasted valuable resources,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “By conspiring to avoid her federal sentence for health care fraud, she, with the aid of her husband, only made matters worse. Julie added another year to her sentence and Rodney now has a federal felony conviction for which he will soon be sentenced.”
In a case that garnered national media attention, Rodney and Julie Wheeler conspired to fake her death at the New River Gorge to avoid her federal court sentencing for health care fraud. To fake her death, Rodney Wheeler and another family member placed a 911 call on May 31, 2020, claiming 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, rescue dogs, and repelling experts also scoured the area looking for her. Additional false statements were given to state and federal investigators by Rodney Wheeler as part of the conspiracy, including statements to National Park Service officers and the United States Probation Office. The purpose of these statements was to continue the Wheelers’ ruse that she had fallen and was missing. In reality, she was hiding in her own home and planning to go into permanent hiding with her husband.
After two days of searching, the West Virginia State Police located Julie Wheeler hiding in a closet inside her home. Once removed from her closet, Rodney and Julie Wheeler were both taken into custody. In statements to state and federal investigators, Rodney Wheeler and Julie Wheeler admitted they conspired to fake her disappearance to avoid Julie Wheeler’s pending federal sentencing in a health care fraud case.
Instead of avoiding her federal sentencing hearing for health care fraud, Julie Wheeler was incarcerated and subsequently sentenced on June 30, 2020, to 42 months in prison and three years of supervised release for health care fraud relating 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. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG), the Office of Veterans Affairs (VA), and the United States Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) conducted the investigation of the underlying health care fraud.
The National Park Service and the West Virginia State Police conducted the criminal investigation concerning the conspiracy to obstruct justice. The United States Probation Office in the Southern District of West Virginia also conducted an independent investigation of Julie Wheeler’s disappearance and conduct related to the obstruction. The Raleigh County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office also assisted with the investigation and the Wheelers are both presently charged with numerous felony and misdemeanor offenses in Raleigh County Circuit and Magistrate Courts relating to the false reporting of an emergency.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the plea and sentencing hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is handling the prosecutions.
The investigation was also conducted by members of the United States Attorney’s Healthcare Fraud Abuse, Recovery and Response Team (ARREST), an innovative approach linking civil and criminal enforcement efforts together in a comprehensive attack on healthcare fraud. United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced the formation of ARREST in February 2019. All health care related cases in the Southern District of West Virginia, whether they are the subject of criminal or civil investigation or enforcement, are directed through ARREST. Included within the purview of the team are the Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit, Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Force, Medicare and Medicaid Fraud, and Asset Forfeiture efforts related to all healthcare matters.
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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Ohio Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Meth DistributionRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Marvin Keaton, 39, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine.
“Meth is a scourge on our communities,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “But each and every day, in partnership with law enforcement, we take meth dealers off the streets and hold them accountable.”
Keaton admitted that on February 25, 2020, he met a person on the 1900 block of 12th Avenue in Huntington and sold them 10.159 grams of methamphetamine in exchange for $200. On March 3, 2020, Keaton sold the same person 20.837 grams of methamphetamine in exchange for $400.
The Huntington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00112.
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Tennessee Man Who Shot Charleston Police Officer Sentenced to 210 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Bryan Lee Ogle II, 33, of Sevierville, Tennessee, was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Ogle has an extensive criminal history. This case represents his 13th felony conviction. He also has been convicted of a total of 25 misdemeanors.
“For his 13th felony conviction, Ogle received a sentence of 210 months – more than 17 years – in federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Felons with guns pose a serious risk to public safety, especially when they have significant criminal histories. Law enforcement officers put themselves in harm’s way every single day to protect their communities from dangerous offenders like Ogle. Fortunately, when Ogle shot the Charleston police officer, the bullet was deflected by the officer’s body worn camera.”
Ogle previously admitted that he was driving a vehicle near Montgomery on February 8, 2018, when officers with the Montgomery Police Department attempted to perform a traffic stop on it. In response, Ogle pulled over momentarily but then began to flee at a high rate of speed. The pursuit reached speeds of approximately 110 mph in a residential and business area with a 35 mph speed limit. Eventually, the defendant lost control of the vehicle and struck a hillside on the side of the roadway. As officers attempted to open the driver’s side door and remove the defendant, he put the vehicle in reverse and attempted to back away. The vehicle then struck a utility pole and was immobilized. An officer then stood in front of the vehicle and gave the defendant commands to stop the vehicle. Ogle then attempted to rev the engine and move forward to strike the officer. After realizing that the vehicle would not move, the defendant exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. He was caught by officers and a physical struggle ensued, with the defendant striking and biting the involved officers. The defendant also attempted to grab and remove one of the officer’s firearms during the struggle. During the struggle, the defendant indicated that he possessed a firearm and attempted to draw it. Once the defendant was secured in handcuffs, a loaded Smith and Wesson 9mm semi-automatic pistol was located. Ogle admitted that he possessed the firearm knowing that he previously had been convicted of several felony offenses in Tennessee.
After Ogle’s arrest in Montgomery, he was taken to Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) General Division for medical treatment. While in custody at CAMC, Ogle attempted to escape from police, with the pursuit ending in a stairwell. When police officers attempted to place Ogle in custody, he knocked a Montgomery Police officer off of the stairs causing injuries to the officer. While the officer was down, Ogle gained control of his firearm and shot a Charleston Police officer. The bullet was deflected by the officer’s body worn camera. Ogle pled guilty in Kanawha County Circuit Court to attempted murder, escape, assault in the commission of a felony and battery and was sentenced to the maximum sentence of six to 30 years in state prison.
The Montgomery Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe handled the prosecution.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:18-cr-00057.
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Inmate Sentenced for Having Weapon at FCI BeckleyRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Tyrice Perkins, 24, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Beckley, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for possessing a weapon at the correctional facility. This sentence is to run consecutively to the sentence he currently is serving. He also was sentenced to three years of supervised release following his imprisonment.
“Inmates that possess shanks or weapons in federal correctional facilities in this district will be prosecuted,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “It’s 12 more months in prison for Perkins.”
Perkins admitted that on February 9, 2020, he possessed a handcrafted weapon known as a shank. The shank was a 6 ½ inch piece of metal sharpened to a point on one end with a handle on the other end. A staff member at the prison saw Perkins drop the shank in the chow hall. The staff member then recovered the weapon. Perkins admitted that the shank was designed and intended to be used as a weapon.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk 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. 5:20-cr-00179.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Emmanuel Lee Whitfield, 25, of Huntington, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for distribution of heroin.
“Another Huntington heroin dealer convicted and sentenced to federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I am proud of the relentless efforts of Huntington law enforcement to rid their streets of poison peddlers.”
Whitfield previously pled guilty and admitted that on March 7, 2019, he distributed approximately 5 grams of heroin to a confidential informant. This distribution of heroin occurred in controlled buy near 5 Washington Court in Huntington.
The Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force and the Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00107.
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Charleston Man Sentenced on Escape ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Douglas Wesley, 32, of Charleston, was sentenced to six months in federal prison for walking away from a halfway house earlier this year. The six month term of imprisonment is to run consecutively to any discharged portion of the sentence in Wesley’s underlying 2012 federal gun conviction.
“If our U.S. Marshals are looking for you, they will find you,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Anyone in federal custody that attempts to escape can expect the result to be more prison time.”
Wesley previously pled guilty and admitted that in late June 2020, he left Dismas Charities, Inc., a Bureau of Prisons residential reentry facility, without permission and did not return. He had been confined at Dismas because of a previous federal gun crime conviction.
The U.S. Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Negar Kordestani 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-00131.
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Akron Man Sentenced to 52 Months in Federal Prison for Role in Multi-State Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Jordan Dewayne Jeffrey, 24, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced to 52 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
“Jeffrey is the latest defendant sentenced for his participation in this meth trafficking network that brought significant amounts of meth into our area from Akron,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “As a result of the excellent work of many law enforcement agencies, as well as members of my staff, we have made Huntington and Charleston safer by removing dangerous drug dealers from our communities.”
Jeffrey previously pled guilty and admitted that between the fall of 2018, and May of 2019, he participated in a conspiracy with multiple individuals to distribute methamphetamine in the Southern District of West Virginia. During the conspiracy, large quantities of methamphetamine were transported from Akron to the Huntington area for distribution. Jeffrey stayed at a residence located at 1235 25th Street in Huntington where the methamphetamine would be stored upon arrival in Huntington. Jeffrey admitted that when customers contacted members of the conspiracy, he would meet the customers at various locations in Huntington and Charleston to deliver the methamphetamine. For example, Jeffrey admitted that on May 20, 2019, he delivered approximately one pound of methamphetamine to a customer in Charleston after the customer contacted another member of the conspiracy and arranged the transaction.
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 Ona 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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Logan County Pharmacy to Pay Civil Monetary Penalties to Resolve Alleged Violations of the Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Family Discount Pharmacy, Inc. (“FDP”), which operated a pharmacy in Mount Gay, Logan County, has agreed to pay civil monetary penalties to resolve allegations that the pharmacy violated the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) by filling illegitimate prescriptions. FDP ceased operating in 2019 during the course of the federal investigation. Pursuant to the terms of the settlement agreement, FDP agreed to pay $310,000 to resolve allegations that it had filled prescriptions for controlled substances that were not valid at its Mount Gay location between January 2013 and December 2018. During this time, the United States contends that FDP filled prescriptions for opioids and other controlled substances “that were not written for a legitimate medical purpose by practitioners acting in the usual course of their professional medical practices and FDP’s Pharmacist in Charge, Earl Claycomb, filled said prescriptions knowing or having reason to know that the prescriptions were not written for a legitimate purpose, in violation of 21 C.F.R. § 1306.04(a) and 21 U.S.C. § 842(a)(1),” according to the settlement agreement.
The CSA prohibits the distribution or dispensing of a controlled substance without a valid prescription. A valid prescription for a controlled substance must be issued for a legitimate medical purpose by an individual practitioner acting in the usual course of his or her practice. The investigation indicated that the pharmacist-in-charge at the pharmacy knew or had reason to know that patients had presented illegitimate prescriptions that should not have been filled.
“When pharmacies fail to follow the requirements of the CSA it significantly contributes to the opioid epidemic, causing great harm to our citizens and communities,” stated United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “This settlement agreement demonstrates that my Office, the DEA and other federal, state and local law enforcement partners, are using all tools available to address the opioid crisis.”
“The Drug Enforcement Administration will not allow unscrupulous pharmacies to prioritize financial gain over the well-being of patients entrusted to their care,” said Todd Scott, special agent in charge of DEA’s Louisville Division, which serves West Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee. “A pharmacist who fills illegitimate prescriptions is no different from a drug dealer on the street.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Alan G. McGonigal and Gregory P. Neil.
The settlement is a result of the United States Attorney’s Healthcare Fraud Abuse, Recovery and Response Team (ARREST), an innovative approach linking civil and criminal enforcement efforts together in a comprehensive attack on the opioid epidemic and healthcare fraud.
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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Huntington Woman Sentenced to Six Years in Federal Prison for Role in Akron to Huntington Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Niki Renee Maynard, 50, of Huntington, was sentenced to 72 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
“Maynard will spend the next six years in prison for conspiring with Akron sources to distribute large amounts of meth in Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I commend the many federal, state and local law enforcement agencies that conducted the joint investigation that dismantled this drug network.”
Maynard previously pled guilty and admitted that between the fall of 2018 and September of 2019, she participated in a conspiracy with multiple individuals to distribute methamphetamine in the Huntington area. During the conspiracy, Maynard repeatedly obtained quantities of methamphetamine which were transported from Akron to Huntington. Maynard relied on multiple individuals from Akron to deliver the methamphetamine to her and Maynard would in turn distribute the methamphetamine to various customers in Huntington. Maynard also admitted that she permitted others to sell methamphetamine from her residence located at 1223 26th Street in Huntington and that she was responsible for distributing up to 500 grams of methamphetamine during the conspiracy.
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 Ona 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 Man Enters Guilty Plea to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Harold Arthur Thompson, 30, of Huntington, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin.
“Great job by the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department and the West Virginia State Police in conducing this traffic stop and interdicting the heroin and meth Thompson had in his possession,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “These dangerous drugs would have been distributed in our communities if not intercepted by law enforcement.”
Thompson admitted that on September 14, 2019, he was in a vehicle that was pulled over by law enforcement. Thompson admitted that during that traffic stop, he exited the vehicle and attempted to conceal a plastic bag containing 2.9 grams of methamphetamine and 2.5 grams of heroin by removing it from his pants pocket and kicking it underneath the vehicle. Thompson admitted to possessing the heroin and methamphetamine and that both substances were packaged in individual plastic bags for sale. He also admitted that, in addition to the drugs, he possessed digital scales and packaging materials.
Thompson faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on May 3, 2021.
The Putnam County Sheriff’s Department and West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Cremeans 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-00151.
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Michigan Man Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Terry Alan Blackmon, Jr., 34, of Michigan, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for distribution of heroin.
“Another out of state heroin dealer has been sentenced to prison for peddling poisons in Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We have maintained our focus on ridding our communities of drug dealers like Blackmon.”
Blackmon previously pled guilty and admitted that on September 24, 2019, he distributed approximately 2 grams of heroin to a confidential informant. This distribution of heroin occurred in controlled buy at a residence at 523 6th Street in Huntington.
Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the FBI’s Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) Task Force, the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the West Virginia State Police.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00290.
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Kanawha County Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for FraudRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Holly Urlahs, also known as Holly Anderson, 32, of Elkview, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for bank fraud and forging a judge’s signature. Urlahs will also serve a three year term of supervised release upon completion of her prison sentence.
“Urlahs committed very serious crimes,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “She spun a tangled web of deceit for which she will now spend the next two years in federal prison.”
Urlahs previously pled guilty and admitted that she falsely claimed to have sued Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) and was expecting a large financial settlement from her lawsuit. Under these false pretenses, she set out to defraud financial institutions and an insurance company. As part of her fraudulent scheme, Urlahs altered a $100 cashier’s check to reflect an amount over $8.4 million. She also provided fake documents with forged signatures and a personal check for $1 million, although she knew she did not have sufficient funds in her account, to an insurance company to obtain an annuity contract. Urlahs’ check was returned for insufficient funds.
The investigation was conducted by the West Virginia State Police-Bureau of Criminal Investigations and the West Virginia Insurance Commissioner’s Special Investigations Division. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen Robeson 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-00125.
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Charleston Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Bank Fraud and Possession of Stolen MailRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Samantha Miller, 36, of Charleston, was sentenced to one year in federal prison for the felony offenses of bank fraud and possession of stolen mail matter. After Miller completes her sentence of federal incarceration, she will be placed on supervised release for a term of five years. Miller is also required to pay restitution back to the victim banks in the amount of $1,965.51.
“Miller stole a number of checks from the mail and attempted to alter and cash them for herself,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “In addition to her one year prison sentence, she will also pay restitution to the victims for the almost $2,000 she fraudulently received through her scheme.”
Samantha Miller previously pled guilty and admitted that in 2018 she traveled to various banks in Kanawha County and she presented stolen checks that had been altered in an attempt to cash them. On January 28, 2018, she successfully cashed an $800 check to obtain money that did not belong to her and that was not under her lawful control. On February 9, 2018, she was caught in possession of a number of stolen checks that had been taken from the United States mail. Samantha Miller knew that she possessed stolen mail matter and was in the process of further altering these checks to attempt to cash them. In total, she received nearly $2,000 that did not belong to her through manipulating checks that had been stolen from the U.S. mail.
The United States Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Dunbar Police Department, and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:19-cr-00114.
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Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Ricky V. McLaughlin, 63, of Belpre, Ohio, pled guilty to wire fraud. McLaughlin faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on March 17, 2021.
“What a fraudster,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “For more than four years, McLaughlin defrauded multiple customers of a significant amount of money. If not for the efforts of the Parkersburg Police Department, McLaughlin probably still would be ripping off classic car lovers.”
McLaughlin operated the McLaughlin Motor Car Museum located in Parkersburg. McLaughlin sold collector cars, including various Pontiac Trans Am classic cars to individuals, and customers would send their collector cars to McLaughlin for restoration. Sometimes customers would buy collector cars from McLaughlin and the Motor Car Museum and then ask him to resell these collector cars at a later date on consignment. McLaughlin admitted that for more than four years, he stole money and defrauded multiple customers through a wire fraud scheme. As part of his fraud activities, McLaughlin admitted he would sometimes sell individuals various Pontiac Trans Am classic cars, but refused to provide the customers with either the titles to the vehicles or the vehicles themselves. At other times, McLaughlin would sell the same Pontiac Trans Am to multiple customers or sell Pontiac Trans Am cars on consignment, but refused to remit the sale proceeds of the collector cars to the car owners.
Throughout his scheme, McLaughlin defrauded multiple individuals of hundreds of thousands of dollars. As part of his plea agreement, he agreed to pay at least $150,000 in restitution.
The Parkersburg Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Court Irene Berger presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen Robeson 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-00182.
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Federal Inmates Plead Guilty to Weapon ChargesRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. -- United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that two federal inmates pled guilty to possessing weapons. Corey Fair, 27, and Rashun Evans, 23, inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) at McDowell, both admitted to possessing a handcrafted weapon, commonly known as a “shank.”
“Bureau of Prisons staff members do an excellent job of finding and confiscating shanks, ultimately thwarting potential violence among inmates,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “These cases will be prosecuted and offenders will find themselves with longer prison sentences.”
Fair admitted that on January 26, 2020, he possessed a handcrafted weapon known as a shank. A staff member at the prison found the weapon, which was a five and one-half inch piece of metal sharpened on one end, in Fair’s pocket during a random search. The staff member then recovered the weapon.
Evans admitted that on February 5, 2020, he also possessed a handcrafted weapon while he was an inmate at the FCI McDowell. A staff member at the prison found the shank hidden underneath a telephone in a common area after Evans had placed it there. The weapon was a seven inch long piece of metal sharpened on one end with a cloth handle on the other end.
Both defendants admitted that the shanks were designed and intended to be used as a weapon.
Both Fair and Evans 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 April 29, 2021.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is handling the prosecutions. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber 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. 1:20-cr-00202 and 1:20-cr-00203.
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Wheeling Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Produce Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Randall Lee Peggs, also known as “Randy Peggs,” 57, of Wheeling, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for conspiracy to produce child pornography. Upon completion of his prison sentence, the defendant will serve a 20 year term of supervised release. Peggs also was ordered to pay $42,900 in restitution to the child victim, which will be joint and several with his codefendant, Elizabeth Haway. Last month, Haway was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
“Egregious,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The heinous acts of Peggs and co-conspirator, Elizabeth Haway, have caused lifelong trauma to the young victim in this case. They will now be behind bars, away from West Virginia children, for the next 15 and 20 years, respectively.”
Peggs previously admitted that he began talking with codefendant Elizabeth Haway, of Princeton, on Facebook in November 2018. Over the course of several months, Peggs and Haway conspired to produce child pornography of a female minor child. The majority of their communications occurred on Facebook Messenger. Peggs encouraged Haway to record and send him nude videos of the female minor child. Ultimately, Haway recorded a video of the female minor child that showed the child nude and sent the video to Peggs via Facebook in February 2019.
This case was investigated by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the FBI’s Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Kristin F. Scott handled the prosecution.
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. 1:19-cr-00304.
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Two Huntington Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that two Huntington men were sentenced to federal prison for gun crimes.
Jeffrey L. Hodgens, 42, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for theft of a firearm. He previously pled guilty and admitted that on March 24, 2019, he entered a vehicle that was parked in the 1100 block of 4th Avenue in Huntington where he located a Colt, 5.56 mm rifle. Hodgens stole the rifle and admitted that he subsequently traded it to another person in Huntington in exchange for methamphetamine. When the rifle was later recovered, it was determined that the rifle was capable of firing as a fully automatic machinegun. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Huntington Police Department. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
Craig Eatmon, also known as “Fresh,” 41, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm on two separate occasions. Eatmon admitted that on May 19 and June 17 of 2019, he sold a firearm at Tri-State Pawn and Jewelry on 4th Avenue in Huntington. At the time he sold the firearms, he had been convicted of a drug related felony and malicious destruction of property in Wayne County, Michigan. As a result of those convictions, Eatmon was prohibited from possessing the firearms. The ATF conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey handled the prosecution.
These cases were prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 3:19-cr-00297 (Hodgens) and 3:20-cr-00104 (Eatmon).
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Cabell County Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. -- United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today Steven McCallister, 47, of Barboursville, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. McCallister received an enhanced penalty because he had a previous federal drug trafficking conviction.
“This dangerous drug dealer received a sentencing enhancement and will serve 20 years in federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “McCallister was still on supervised release from a previous federal drug conviction when he was caught peddling poisons in 2019. He won’t be causing any more trouble in Cabell County.”
McCallister was convicted of the charges in August 2020 after a jury trial. The evidence at trial revealed that on June 12, 2019, agents with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) arranged a controlled buy of 50 grams of heroin from McCallister through a confidential informant (CI). The controlled buy was conducted at McCallister’s residence at 224 Carper Lane in Barboursville. Following the controlled buy, MDENT agents, along with members of the Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, executed a search warrant at the residence and discovered over a kilogram of fentanyl/heroin mix. They also discovered a loaded .357 handgun in McCallister’s bedroom where part of the fentanyl was located along with a large amount of cash. McCallister was on supervised release at the time from his previous federal drug trafficking conviction.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. In addition to MDENT and the Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the West Virginia State Police also assisted in the investigation. Assistant U. S. Attorneys Greg McVey and Joseph 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-00153.
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Greenbrier County Man Sentenced to Prison for Breaking into United States Post OfficeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Matthew Riffle, age 30, of Rupert, was sentenced to 14 months in federal prison for the felony offense of breaking into a United States Post Office. Riffle pled guilty on September 25, 2020 and has been in federal custody since June 30, 2020. He was also ordered to pay restitution to the United States Post Office in the amount of $3,690.42 for the items he took that were not recovered and any damage done to both of the post offices. After he discharges his prison sentence, he will be placed on supervised release for three years.
“Breaking into federal government buildings is a serious offense,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And as Riffle can attest, it’s an offense that can result in stiff sentences.”
On two successive days, Riffle broke into two different United States Post Offices. On March 31, 2019, Riffle used a pry bar to break into the Springdale, Fayette County, United States Post Office. Once inside, he took a postage meter, mail, stamps and some cash. On the previous day, Riffle broke into the Smoot, Greenbrier County, United States Post Office and took some cash. Finally, on April 1, 2019, Riffle again attempted to break into the Smoot Post Office, but was not successful due to the installation of a new door lock and security mechanism. Riffle was arrested on April 2, 2019 by the Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Department. Riffle was advised of his Miranda rights and agreed to give a statement. He admitted to breaking into both of the post offices, and attempting to break into the Smoot Post Office a second time. Riffle stated that his goal was to take the postal machine that prints money orders, but he took the postage stamp meter by mistake. Law enforcement recovered a number of the stolen items from Riffle’s home, including the postage meter from the Springdale Post Office.
United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the sentencing. The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Sheriff’s Departments of Greenbrier and Fayette counties investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes 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-00064.
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Beckley Man Enters Guilty Plea to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Isaiah Lamont Shaw, 21, of Beckley, pled guilty to distributing more than 5 grams of methamphetamine. Shaw was charged as a result of a joint investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit.
“Shaw was peddling meth that was between 92% and 98% pure,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Meth is taking a serious toll on West Virginia communities. I commend the collaborative work of law enforcement in this case that put another meth dealer out of business.”
Shaw admitted that on October 30, 2019, he sold more than five grams of methamphetamine to a person that was working with law enforcement as a confidential informant. Shaw admitted to meeting the informant near a shopping center near Mount Hope in Raleigh County to sell the drugs. As part of the plea agreement, Shaw also admitted to selling methamphetamine to the same confidential informant on four other occasions. Each transaction occurred within the Southern District of West Virginia. The drugs sold by defendant were tested by the DEA Drug Lab which established the methamphetamine was between 92% and 98% pure.
Shaw faces not less than five years and up to forty years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 26, 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. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Frank W. Volk.
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-00124.
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U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart Issues Statement Regarding Violence at Nation's Capitol BuildingRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart issued the following statement:
“The Rule of Law is paramount to the maintenance of freedom. The right to peaceful assembly and demonstration is a fundamental right, but that right does not extend to committing violence in the name of any cause or purpose. The violence at the Nation’s Capitol Building was reprehensible and counter to every value we share as Americans. My team is working with our counterparts in law enforcement and, as the facts dictate, are prepared to enforce the Rule of Law and the laws of these United States. I fully support and endorse the statement of Acting United States Attorney General Rosen regarding yesterday’s intolerable events. I want to commend the brave men and women of law enforcement for their selfless service yesterday and always. These men and women are incredible public servants in defense of our citizens, our communities and the Rule 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.
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The United States Department of JusticeFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021
WWW.JUSTICE.GOV/NEWS
ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL JEFFREY A. ROSEN REGARDING THE OVERRUNNING OF THE U.S. CAPITOL BUILDINGWASHINGTON - Acting Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen issued the following statement:
"The violence at our Nation’s Capitol Building is an intolerable attack on a fundamental institution of our democracy. From the outset, the Department of Justice has been working in close coordination with the Capitol Police and federal partners from the Interior Department, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Guard, as well as the Metropolitan Police and other local authorities. Earlier this afternoon, the Department of Justice sent hundreds of federal law enforcement officers and agents from the FBI, ATF, and the U.S. Marshals Service to assist the Capitol Police in addressing this unacceptable situation, and we intend to enforce the laws of our land."
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Montgomery Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Sammy Joe Fragale, II, 39, of Montgomery, was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
“The Fragales made meth trafficking their family business,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Now, father and son, both convicted of their crimes, will be calling a federal prison their home.”
Fragale pled guilty in September admitting to being involved in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in and around Montgomery. On August 18, 2020, Fragale distributed an ounce of methamphetamine to an informant. Two days later he sent the informant to his father, Sammy Joe Fragale, Sr. to obtain more methamphetamine. Fragale, Sr. pled guilty in December and is scheduled to be sentenced on March 29, 2021.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation of the Fragales. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks is handling the prosecution.
This case was part of operation “Second Wave,” a long-term investigation of a drug trafficking ring involved in the distribution of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and THC products. More than a dozen individuals have been charged in federal court as part of the investigation. In addition to the Fragales, Larry Terrence Martin and Greg Woods have pled guilty. Jimmie Lee Coleman is scheduled to plead guilty on January 19, 2021. Trial for the remaining defendants is scheduled in March. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO), the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), and the Charleston Police Department conducted the “Second Wave” investigation.
The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) is an independent component of the U.S. Department of Justice. Established in 1982, OCDETF is the keystone of the Attorney General’s strategy to reduce the availability of illicit narcotics throughout the United States using a prosecutor-led, multi-agency approach to combat transnational organized crime. OCDETF agents and prosecutors nationwide handle complex investigations and prosecutions of the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, and other priority transnational criminal organizations that threaten the citizens of the United States. OCDETF facilitates joint operations by focusing its partner agencies on priority targets, by managing and coordinating multi-agency efforts, and by leveraging intelligence across multiple investigative platforms.
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-00176 (Fragale, II), 2:20-cr-00184 (Fragale, Sr.), 2:20-cr-00154 (Martin et al), and 2:20-cr-00153 (Woods).
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Lincoln County Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Lenville Jason Porter, 36, of Lincoln County, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Stuart commended the investigative work of the West Hamlin Police Department, notably Lt. J.J. Napier, the Lincoln County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), who assisted the West Hamlin Police Department with the trace and testing of the firearm.
Porter admitted that on October 15, 2018, he was removing engine parts from a car when he was seen by Lt. Napier of the West Hamlin Police Department. Suspicious that he was observing Porter commit theft, Lt. Napier investigated and asked if he could pat Porter down for officer safety. Porter admitted he had a gun prior to the pat down search. Lt. Napier physically recovered a Phoenix Arms .22 pistol from the defendant’s pocket. The gun was loaded and capable of shooting. A records check revealed that Porter was convicted in 2013 of two prior felony offenses in Lincoln County: third degree arson and destruction of a public utility. Porter had neither been pardoned nor had his civil right to possess a firearm restored. Additional records checks of the firearm by the ATF confirmed the gun had traveled in interstate commerce. The ATF also confirmed the functionality of the firearm.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes handled the prosecution.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
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-00120.
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Fayette County Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Eugene Enrique Torres, 41, a Panamanian man residing in Fayetteville, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for attempted enticement of a minor. Torres was also sentenced to a term of supervised release of 20 years and will be required to register as a sex offender.
“Offenders that exploit, or seek to exploit our children, will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I commend the relentless efforts of my team and those our law enforcement partners to protect West Virginia’s most vulnerable.”
Torres previously admitted that in June 2020 he contacted a woman on Craigslist who identified herself as a mother who would allow him to have sex with her children in exchange for money. During the conversation, Torres arranged to have the woman travel from Beckley to a hotel in Fayetteville with an 11-year-old girl the woman stated was her daughter. Torres would then pay approximately $250 in order to engage in oral sex and sexual intercourse with the child. After he met with the purported mother at the hotel, Torres was arrested while walking with the mother to meet the child.
The FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald handled 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. 2:20-cr-00177.
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Charleston Woman Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Lois Brotherton, 65, of Charleston, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. She faces up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release when she is sentenced on April 7, 2021. Brotherton has also agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $48,509.
“Brotherton is a fraudster that carried out this scheme for personal enrichment,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. We take these cases very seriously and do all that we can to bring justice to the victims. I commend our law enforcement partners for their excellent work in this case.”
Brotherton once provided bookkeeping and accounting services to a Kanawha County non-profit organization that formally dissolved in 2014. In 2019, Lois Brotherton asked a co-conspirator to write her checks from the non-profit’s bank account. Brotherton knew she was not entitled to those funds and that there were no funds available for her use. The co-conspirator agreed to do so. Brotherton would receive checks as though the non-profit organization had paid her money and would then electronically deposit the money into her personal account. To cover the wire fraud, the co-conspirator would electronically transfer money from three different companies for which the co-defendant provided accounting services, and without the companies knowledge, consent, or permission. As a result of this fraud scheme, Lois Brotherton defrauded the companies of at least $48,509.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the West Virginia State Tax Department-Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the guilty plea hearing. United States Attorney Mike Stuart and Assistant United States Attorneys Erik Goes and Katie Robeson are handling the prosecution.
Please note: In a related matter, Misty Brotherton-Tanner, 40, was charged in an 18-count indictment with wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, unlawful monetary transactions and making false statements. An indictment is merely an allegation and Misty Brotherton Tanner is 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 No. 2:20-cr-00147.
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Dealing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Jawhar Baruti Jones, 41, of Charleston, pled guilty to distribution of methamphetamine.
“Jones distributed 161 grams of 98% pure meth in Charleston,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Great job by DEA and the West Virginia State Police in getting him off of our streets. Charleston families are no doubt safer.”
Jones admitted that he sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant on three separate occasions in May of 2017. All the transactions occurred in Charleston. In total, Jones distributed approximately 161 grams of 98% pure methamphetamine during the investigation. A search warrant was executed at Jones’ residence shortly after the third transaction, where several bills of United States currency were found which matched the serial numbers of those utilized by the confidential informant to purchase methamphetamine from the defendant.
Jones faces up to life in prison when sentenced on April 6, 2021.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation with the assistance of the West Virginia State Police. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe 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. 2:19-cr-00070.
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Mexican National Sentenced to More than 11 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine and Immigration OffensesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Joel Gonzalez-Gomez, 31, of Chipas, Mexico, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and illegal reentry of a removed alien.
“Five prior removals. More than a kilo of meth. 12 grams of fentanyl. 28 grams of cocaine. 3 guns,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Gonzalez-Gomez had come into our country illegally and continued to break our laws by peddling poison. He will now have more than 11 years in federal prison to think about the error of his ways.”
In July 2019, drug task force investigators began purchasing methamphetamine from individuals associated with Gonzalez-Gomez at various locations in Kanawha County. The investigation culminated in the execution of a search warrant at the residence of Gonzalez-Gomez on Church Drive in Charleston on November 20, 2019. Investigators seized more than a kilogram of methamphetamine, 12 grams of fentanyl, 28 grams of cocaine, and three firearms. Gonzalez-Gomez was arrested the same day at a residence in Cottageville, Jackson County. He had previously been deported on November 6, 2013, October 28, 2015, December 15, 2015, December 7, 2016, and March 27, 2018.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (DHS/ICE), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00157.
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Woman Pleads Guilty to Role in Akron to Huntington Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Mary Beth Cummings, 35, of Huntington, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
“Cummings was part of a significant meth trafficking network,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I commend our law enforcement partners for shutting it down.”
Cummings admitted that during the month of May in 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.
Cummings faces 5 to 40 years in federal prison in federal prison when she is sentenced on March 22, 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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Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Robert William Moats, 35, of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm with a removed serial number.
Moats previously admitted that on March 21, 2018, officers with the Charleston Police Department were looking for a female fugitive. Officers learned she was at a residence in Charleston. Officers were given consent by the homeowner to search for the fugitive. Officers found Moats inside the home sleeping on a chair with the fugitive. Officers awoke Moats and asked him to stand up. As he stood up, officers observed a silver pistol in his right front pants pocket. The officers secured the firearm, a Phoenix Arms, Raven, .25 caliber semi-automatic pistol. The serial number had been removed from the pistol. Moats also admitted that he knew he was a convicted felon and that he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of a 2003 felony conviction for second degree murder.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Cremeans handled the prosecution.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
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-00008.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distributing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Maurice D. Grigsby, also known as “Ty”, 35, of Huntington, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for two counts of distribution of crack cocaine.
“We still come across crack dealers,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And we’re still prosecuting them and sending them to federal prison.”
Grigsby admitted that on March 28, 2019, at The Lighthouse Bar in Guyandotte, he distributed approximately 1.1 grams of crack cocaine to a confidential informant in a controlled buy. Grigsby also admitted that on April 24, 2019, he distributed approximately 1.08 grams of crack cocaine to a confidential informant in a controlled buy near 2575 5th Avenue in Huntington.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the FBI’s Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) West Task Force, the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office, and 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 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-00257.
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Detroit Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Darelle Devon Boynton, 35, of Detroit, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for distribution of heroin and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
“This dangerous Detroit drug dealer will be spending nearly six years in federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Boynton, who has multiple felony convictions in Michigan, won’t be jeopardizing public safety in Huntington or Detroit any time soon.”
Boynton previously pled guilty and admitted that on January 30, 2020, he sold 8.47 grams of heroin to a person working as a confidential informant. The sale took place in a car outside 2005 10th Avenue in Huntington, West Virginia. Boynton also admitted that on February 13, 2020, he possessed a Glock Model 19, 9mm pistol while inside a bar called “Tamika’s,” formerly known as the “Copa,” located at 2005 10th Avenue in Huntington. Boynton has prior felony convictions in Michigan including armed robbery, possession of a firearm by a felon, and fleeing from a police officer. Because of those convictions, he was prohibited from possessing the firearm. Police searched Boynton’s house located at 199 Davis Street in Huntington and found approximately 35.13 grams of heroin in his bedroom which he intended to sell. Boynton also sold approximately 1.75 grams of heroin for $100 to the same confidential informant on January 23, 2020.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey handled the prosecution.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00038.
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South Charleston Man Sentenced for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
Charleston, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Eric Wiseman, 40, of South Charleston, was sentenced to 10 months in federal prison for attempting to possess with intent to distribute marijuana.
“This was a lot of marijuana,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Marijuana remains illegal under federal law.”
Wiseman admitted that on November 7, 2019, he attempted to possess approximately 6.1 kg of marijuana and had arranged for the deliveries of this marijuana from an out-of-state supplier to West Virginia in order to distribute it for sale. Officers with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) intercepted several marijuana deliveries which were meant for Wiseman and then conducted a controlled delivery of these packages to his residence in South Charleston as part of their investigation.
MDENT conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Negar M. Kordestani and former Assistant United States Attorney Stefan Hasselblad 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-00122.
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Princeton Woman Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Elizabeth Kaye Haway, 43, of Princeton, was sentenced to the maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Upon completion of her prison sentence, the defendant will serve a 25 year term of supervised release. Haway also was ordered to pay $42,900 in restitution to the child victim.
“Twenty years in prison for an abhorrent crime that inflicted lifelong trauma on a young child,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We will do everything within our power to keep offenders like Haway away from West Virginia’s children. After Haway completes the state prison sentence she is currently serving, she then will spend the next two decades in federal prison.”
Haway previously admitted that she began talking with codefendant Randall Peggs, of Wheeling, on Facebook in November 2018. Over the course of several months, Haway and Peggs conspired to distribute child pornography of Victim 1, a 5-year-old female minor child. The majority of their communications occurred on Facebook Messenger and conversations focused on Haway’s desires to touch and sexually violate Victim 1 while recording it to send to Peggs. Peggs encouraged Haway to record and send him nude videos of Victim 1 and told her that he would watch anything she sent him. Ultimately, Haway recorded a video of child pornography depicting a nude Victim 1 and sent the video to Peggs twice via Facebook in February 2019.
Haway currently is serving a lengthy state prison sentence for first degree sexual assault, sexual abuse and incest involving the same minor female child. Peggs previously pled guilty on August 3, 2020 to a federal child pornography charge arising out of this incident. His sentencing is scheduled for January 11, 2021.
This case was investigated by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the FBI’s Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Kristin F. Scott handled handling the prosecution.
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. 1:19-cr-00304.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Martel DaAngelo Brown, 33, of Huntington, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for two counts of distribution of fentanyl and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
“We continue our work to reduce the supply of fentanyl and remove fentanyl dealers from our communities,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Fentanyl is a deadly drug that has taken the lives of many throughout our state.”
Brown previously pled guilty and admitted that on February 5 and 7, 2020, he distributed fentanyl in Huntington during controlled buys conducted by the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI’s Southern West Virginia Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) West Task Force. On February 10, 2020, a search warrant of his Huntington residence yielded approximately 1.7 grams of fentanyl, digital scales, and a ledger.
The investigation was conducted by the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI’s Southern West Virginia Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) West Task Force. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe handled the prosecution.
The case was prosecuted as part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.), an enforcement surge that seeks to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas.
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-00039.
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Detroit Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Kwaine Brengettcy, 34, of Detroit, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“100% pure meth,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Meth is wreaking havoc on our communities. With each prosecution of a meth dealer like Brengettcy, we are taking back our streets and fighting for families who have lost loved ones to overdose.”
Brengettcy previously pled guilty and admitted that on February 28, 2020, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on a residence in Beckley. As the officers entered, they observed Brengettcy jump up and flee to the back room. They later located 21 grams of methamphetamine inside his jacket pocket. Brengettcy also had rented a hotel room nearby, which was searched by law enforcement. Inside, they discovered $10,576 in U.S. currency. Some of the bills in that sum of cash were marked as being used in previous controlled drug buys by law enforcement.
Brengettcy was interviewed and admitted to bringing methamphetamine from Detroit to Beckley, and that he had been selling methamphetamine in the area for at least four months prior to his arrest. The methamphetamine that was recovered was sent to a Department of Homeland Security laboratory, where it was tested and proved to be 100% pure methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Beckley Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-cr-00067.
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Two Plead Guilty to Federal Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Larry Terrence Martin, 31, of St. Albans, and Sammy Joe Fragale, Sr., 72, of Montgomery, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Martin and Fragale are two of the 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.
“The Second Wave investigation put more than a dozen drug dealers out of business,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I commend the valiant efforts of the many law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation. It’s a good day for West Virginia families when we get poison peddlers like Martin and Fragale off of our streets.”
Martin admitted selling methamphetamine, marijuana, and “vape” cartridges containing THC in and around Kanawha County since at least January 2018. The investigation revealed that Martin obtained drugs from out-of-state sources who shipped the drugs to West Virginia by U.S. Mail and private parcel carriers. Martin admitted that on January 26, 2018, he intended to take possession of a package containing 6.75 pounds of methamphetamine that had been delivered to his sister, Brandi Martin’s residence in Dunbar. Police intercepted the package shortly after it was delivered. Brandi Martin eventually pled guilty to her role in that offense and was sentenced in August 2020 to 188 months in federal prison. Martin further admitted that he had recruited a local U.S. Postal Service mail carrier, identified in the indictment as Steven Matthew Bumpus, to deliver certain drug packages to him that had been addressed to locations along Bumpus’ mail route. On June 22, 2020, Bumpus delivered a package containing approximately 13 pounds of marijuana to Martin near Belle. In his plea agreement, Martin acknowledged having distributed more than 10 pounds of methamphetamine and between 40 and 60 pounds of marijuana. Martin faces 10 years and up to life in prison when he is sentenced on March 29, 2021.
Fragale admitted conspiring with his son, Sammy Joe Fragale, II to distribute methamphetamine in Montgomery and in St. Albans. On August 18 and 21, 2020, Fragale distributed methamphetamine to an informant working for the Drug Enforcement Administration. He faces up to 20 years when sentenced on March 29, 2021.
The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks is handling the prosecution.
The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) is an independent component of the U.S. Department of Justice. Established in 1982, OCDETF is the keystone of the Attorney General’s strategy to reduce the availability of illicit narcotics throughout the United States using a prosecutor-led, multi-agency approach to combat transnational organized crime. OCDETF agents and prosecutors nationwide handle complex investigations and prosecutions of the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, and other priority transnational criminal organizations that threaten the citizens of the United States. OCDETF facilitates joint operations by focusing its partner agencies on priority targets, by managing and coordinating multi-agency efforts, and by leveraging intelligence across multiple investigative platforms.
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-00154 (Martin) and 2:20-cr-00184 (Fragale).
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Three Appear in Federal Court for Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that three defendants appeared in federal court this week for firearm offenses.
Adam Michael Miller, 28, of Parkersburg, was sentenced to 63 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Miller previously admitted that he was driving a white Honda Pilot on October 28, 2019, when the vehicle was stopped by an officer with the Parkersburg Police Department in the 900 block of Williams Street in Parkersburg. Officers searched the vehicle and found a loaded Smith and Wesson .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol along with a digital scale, small empty plastic bags consistent with drug distribution, and quantities of marijuana and psilocybin mushrooms. Several .40 caliber bullets were also found on Miller’s person. The firearm had previously been reported stolen through the Parkersburg Police Department. Miller was not legally permitted to possess a firearm due to his previous conviction for the felony offense of burglary on December 6, 2017, in the Circuit Court of Calhoun County, West Virginia. Miller’s prior burglary conviction was related to his role in the kidnapping and torture of Joshua Darwin Shrader of Parkersburg in July 2016. He was sentenced to imprisonment in that case for an indeterminate sentence of not less than one nor more than fifteen years. He was later released upon parole supervision and was still on parole when this offense occurred. In addition to the burglary conviction, Miller has a history of violent and concerning behavior including 11 battery convictions, four convictions for violation of a protective order, as well as convictions for reporting a false emergency, obstructing an officer, destruction of property, and intimidation of a witness. The victims of his battery convictions include his mother, his fiancé, a mall security guard, the mother of one of his children, a corrections officer, and his younger brother. The Parkersburg Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe handled the prosecution.
Jeremy Vance, of Logan, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for being a felon in possession of firearms. Vance previously pled guilty and admitted that on August 15, 2019, he was carrying four long guns while riding a bicycle in West Logan. When stopped by the West Virginia State Police, Vance admitted that he knew he should not have had the guns. Vance was previously convicted of breaking and entering in Logan County Circuit Court in 2011. Vance has a lengthy criminal history and committed this offense while on state probation for other crimes. Vance also admitted to State Police that he had planned to take the four long guns to a local flea market to sell them for money to buy drugs. The guns included two Mossberg 12 gauge shotguns, one Marlin .22 caliber rifle, and one Marlin 12 gauge shotgun. The West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Scott handled the prosecution.
Anthony Tevan Tyner, 23, of Huntington, pled guilty to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. On August 29, 2019, ATF was conducting an investigation into the purchases of multiple firearms that led to a Huntington address where Tyner lived. While speaking with law enforcement, Tyner admitted to being a daily user of marijuana. Tyner also admitted that in a nearby vehicle he had in his possession a loaded I.O. Inc. model 10-15, multi-caliber rifle. Tyner faces up to 10 years in prison when sentenced on March 8, 2021. The ATF and the Barboursville Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe is handling the prosecution.
These cases are part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
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-00022(Miller), 2:20-cr-00094(Vance) and 3:19-cr-00259(Tyner).
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Parkersburg Man Sentenced to Four Years in Federal Prison for Dealing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Andrew Martin Hopkins, 58, of Parkersburg, was sentenced to 48 months in prison pursuant to his previous guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“Hopkins had over 100 grams of meth that was 96% pure,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Another significant prison sentence for a dealer of this deadly drug.”
Hopkins previously admitted that he was driving a pickup truck in Vienna on May 19, 2019, when he was pulled over by an officer with the Vienna Police Department near the intersection of Grand Central Avenue and 21st Street for displaying a license plate that belonged on a vehicle of a different make and model. After the officer determined that Hopkins could not produce proper registration or proof of insurance for the vehicle, a K-9 was requested to respond to the scene of the traffic stop. After the K-9 arrived, it was deployed on the vehicle and provided a positive indication for the presence of controlled substances. Officers then searched and located methamphetamine inside the truck as well as on Hopkins’ person. A total of 102.85 grams of methamphetamine was located during the search, along with $3,631 in United States currency. This methamphetamine was sent to a laboratory and was confirmed to have a purity of 96%. Hopkins admitted to possessing the entire amount of methamphetamine and having the intention to distribute it to other people. Hopkins also admitted to selling methamphetamine to a confidential informant working with law enforcement officers on four different occasions.
The Vienna Police Department, the Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber 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-00003.
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Ohio Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Devante Terrell Hatch, 28, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“This Akron drug dealer was caught with more than four pounds of meth in his vehicle,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And now he’ll be spending the next five years in federal prison.”
On February 25, 2019, the Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force (PNTF) received a tip that a large load of drugs was being delivered to a specific apartment on Staunton Avenue between 9:00p.m. and 11:00p.m. and that it would be coming from Akron, Ohio in a vehicle with Ohio license plates. Uniformed Parkersburg Police Officers began surveilling the area. At 10:05 p.m., they observed a GMC Terrain with Ohio license plates pull into the alley behind Staunton Avenue and park directly behind the apartment. Officers approached Hatch, who was driving the vehicle. Hatch claimed to be there to visit his girlfriend, but he could not tell them where she lived. The officers smelled marijuana and asked Hatch whether he had any in the vehicle. Hatch admitted that he did, and officers searched the vehicle. The officers located and seized two backpacks containing marijuana and more than four pounds of methamphetamine. At the plea hearing, Hatch admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine in Parkersburg.
The Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force and the Parkersburg Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00061.
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Christopher Ryan Christian Counts, 28, of Charleston, pled guilty to possession of child pornography.
“Egregious crime,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Counts is a repeat offender with two prior sex offense convictions in state court. We will continue to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law those who prey on our children.”
Counts admitted that on December 31, 2019, he possessed 259 images and 14 videos of child pornography, many of which depicted prepubescent minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Some of the images and videos contained scenes depicting minors and infants engaged in sadistic or masochistic conduct. Counts has two prior sex offense convictions in Kanawha County Circuit Court.
Counts faces up to twenty years in prison when sentenced on March 29, 2021.
The West Virginia State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White 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. 2:20-cr-00130.
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