Southern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Two Detroit Men Plead Guilty to Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two Detroit, Michigan men pled guilty to drug crimes today before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
“Two more Detroit drug dealers stand convicted,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Dealers that come into this District to peddle their poisons will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Rudy Valentino Jackson, 21, pled guilty to aiding and abetting the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin. Jackson admitted that on August 22, 2019, officers with the Huntington Police Department executed a search warrant at 702 Washington Avenue, Apartment 7, in Huntington. Officers found distribution quantities of methamphetamine and heroin inside the apartment. Jackson admitted he intended to aid other individuals in selling the methamphetamine and heroin. Jackson faces up to twenty years in prison when sentenced on April 27, 2020.
In a separate case, Paul Cunningham, 44, pled guilty to selling heroin. Cunningham admitted that in 2016 he sold heroin to a confidential informant three times in Huntington. Cunningham faces up to twenty years in prison when sentenced on May 4, 2020.
The Huntington Police Department conducted both investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor is handling the prosecutions.
These cases are being 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.
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St. Albans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A St. Albans man pled guilty to a drug crime today, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. John Harvey Bush, Jr., 27, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine.
“18 pounds of meth through the U.S. Mail,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The motto, “If it fits, it ships,” does not apply to illegal drugs. I can’t say enough about the tremendous work of our U.S. Postal Inspectors who intercept packages like this on a daily basis and prevent illicit drugs from making it out on the streets. We are also fortunate to have the West Virginia National Guard as a partner in our counterdrug efforts.”
On September 4, 2019, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service intercepted a package shipped from Los Angeles, California to a Charleston residence. 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 was then followed as he drove the package to his girlfriend’s residence, where he unloaded and opened the package.
Upon opening the package, he discovered there to be only 11.2 grams of methamphetamine and 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 Bush was aware of the content of the package, its tracking number, and when it would be arriving.
Bush faces up to forty years in prison when sentenced on June 8, 2020.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the United States Postal Service - Office of Inspector General, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation. The West Virginia National Guard assisted law enforcement with their investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner is handling the prosecution.
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Huntington Man Sentenced for Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON W.Va. – A Huntington man caught selling heroin last year in Huntington was sentenced today to 15 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Quentin J. Parker, 32, previously pled guilty to distribution of heroin. Parker also was sentenced for violating his supervised release and was sentenced to an additional 21 months in federal prison for a total sentence of 36 months.
“Parker had previous convictions on drug and gun charges,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “He went back to peddling drugs while still under supervision. Parker just got himself a longer stay in federal prison.”
Parker admitted that, on February 6, 2019, he directed a confidential informant to come to a parking lot in the 200 block of 4th Avenue in Huntington to purchase heroin. Once the informant arrived, Parker entered the informant’s vehicle and sold the informant 3 grams of heroin. At the time of the offense, Parker was serving a term of supervised release based on convictions he received in 2011 for distributing crack cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
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HOPE Clinic Physician Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A North Carolina physician pled guilty to a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Roswell Tempest Lowry, M.D., 85, pled guilty to interstate travel in aid of a racketeering enterprise.
“Like I’ve said before, medical professionals prescribing controlled substances outside the bounds of medical practice and without legitimate medical purpose, will be held accountable just like any other drug dealer. A drug dealer with a lab coat and a stethoscope is still just a drug dealer,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Furthering the opioid crisis and taking advantage of West Virginians suffering with substance use disorder for the sake of personal greed cannot and will not be tolerated.”
Lowry admitted that in May 2014, he was contacted by a “head-hunter,” about working at the Charleston HOPE Clinic. He was told that HOPE Clinic specialized in the treatment of chronic pain through opioids but Lowry had no experience in pain management. Despite having no experience in pain management, Lowry agreed to work at the Charleston HOPE Clinic location. Lowry travelled from North Carolina to West Virginia the day before he was scheduled to work and stayed at a hotel for the week. When Lowry started working at the HOPE Clinic, it became apparent to him that customers were not being properly evaluated prior to receiving prescriptions for opioids. Lowry also realized that customer’s files were poorly kept with little relevant medical information in them. Most customers paid in cash and many travelled from out of state to the HOPE Clinic. Lowry often received a bonus on top of his hourly pay that was clearly based on the number of paying customers at the HOPE Clinic. Despite all of these red flags, Lowry continued to travel from North Carolina to work at the HOPE Clinic in Charleston, West Virginia, and he continued to write customers prescriptions for Schedule II narcotics. Lowry specifically admitted that he travelled to from North Carolina to Charleston, West Virginia on June 15, 2014, to work at the Charleston HOPE Clinic from June 16-18, 2014. During this trip, Lowry admitted to prescribing customer D.J.B. 120 Percocet 10/325 mg pills and 60 Oxycodone 10 mg pills without a legitimate medical purpose in the usual course of professional medical practice and beyond the bounds of medical practice.
Lowry faces up to 5 years in prison when sentenced on May 4, 2020.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG), the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, the Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police, the Kentucky State Police, the Beckley Police Department, the Virginia State Police, the Charleston Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
United States District Judge Volk presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys Monica D. Coleman and Steven Loew are handling the prosecution.
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(Note: this guilty plea was withdrawn on August 24, 2022. On September 8, 2022, Lowry pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting obtaining a controlled substance by fraud. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:22-cr-169.)
Detroit-Area Man Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Detroit-area man was sentenced to federal prison for aiding and abetting the distribution of oxymorphone, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. D’Andre Lee Mathis, 29, of Mount Clemons, Michigan was sentenced to 63 months in prison and a three year term of supervised release.
“A Detroit-area pill dealer operating in Greenbrier County,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “If you think we only find Detroit drug dealers in Charleston and Huntington, guess again. We are finding out-of-state drug dealers in every county in the District. The work of our task forces is critical to identifying and investigating these poison peddlers so we can send them packing.”
Mathis previously admitted that on June 9, 2017, he distributed three oxymorphone pills to a confidential informant in Alderson after his co-defendant, Cody Reed Godfrey, helped set up the deal. Mathis admitted that he was responsible for distributing, or possessing with intent to distribute, dozens of oxymorphone pills in Greenbrier County. Godfrey was sentenced to 18 months in prison for his role in the scheme.
The Greenbrier Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney John File handled the prosecution.
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Operation Shutdown Corner Update: Two Defendants Enter Guilty Pleas to Federal Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Two men pled guilty today for their participation in a drug trafficking operation in Raleigh County, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. David Dove, 49, of Scarbro, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of a substance containing methamphetamine, while Christopher Redden, 40, of Beckley, entered guilty pleas to conspiracy to distribute a quantity of a substance containing methamphetamine and being an unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm. Dove and Redden were charged as a result of a long-term investigation known as Operation Shutdown Corner.
“Operation Shutdown Corner did just that – it shut down a significant meth trafficking organization,” announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Meth is now the most pressing drug problem in my District. We’re fighting back through successful joint law enforcement efforts like this that dismantle significant drug trafficking organizations bringing large amounts of meth into our region.”
Dove admitted that between June 2018, and September 17, 2019, he worked with other members of a drug trafficking organization (DTO) operating in Raleigh County, West Virginia to distribute methamphetamine. Dove admitted that during this time period he supplied other members of the drug trafficking organization with distribution quantities of methamphetamine knowing that it the other members would resell the methamphetamine illegally. Dove admitted he was participating in recorded conversations regarding drug activity and to meeting with other members of the DTO to distribute and exchange controlled substances. Dove also admitted that when he was arrested, law enforcement officers found two “eight-balls” of methamphetamine that he intended to distribute. Dove admitted that he was responsible for distributing between 1.5 kilograms and 5 kilograms of methamphetamine during this time period.
Christopher Redden admitted that between January 2019 and September 17, 2019, he participated in the drug trafficking organization by working with Stephanie McClung and others to distribute methamphetamine and heroin within the Southern District of West Virginia. During this time period, Redden admitted to obtaining approximately 50 grams of methamphetamine a month and a quantity of heroin that he intended to re-distribute. Redden admitted that at times he was “fronted” the drugs, or given drugs without paying for them, and then selling the drugs for profit to pay back the supplier. Other times he admitted to paying for the drugs up front. Additionally, Redden admitted that on September 18, 2019 when he was arrested, he was in possession of a Taurus, model G2C, 9mm semi-automatic pistol that he had received as payment for methamphetamine. He also admitted that at the time he possessed the firearm he knew he was an unlawful user of controlled substances and therefore prohibited from possessing any firearms.
Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office, the Beckley Police Department, and the West Virginia State Police.
Both Dove and Redden are scheduled to be sentenced on May 4, 2020. Dove faces a mandatory minimum period of five years and up to forty years in prison and a $5 million fine. Redden faces up to thirty years for the drug and gun charge and a fine of up to $1,250,000.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecutions. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the hearings.
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Project Guardian: Three Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Defendants in three separate cases appeared in federal court and have been sentenced to prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
“Violence won’t be tolerated. Each one of these defendants posed a threat of violence to our communities,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “While we have significantly increased the number of prosecutions of gun law violators and violent drug dealers, we continue our work with a sense of urgency to protect the public from gun violence.”
Dachaun Marcies Thaxton, of Charleston, was sentenced to 106 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. Thaxton was also ordered to serve a five year term of supervised release. Thaxton previously admitted that on March 14 and 19, 2019 and April 1, 2019, he distributed methamphetamine to a confidential informant working with law enforcement in Dunbar, Kanawha County, West Virginia. On April 5, 2019, officers executed a search warrant at his residence located in Solon Court in Dunbar and located one Bushmaster AR-15 rifle with a loaded magazine in the fire position and one Anderson Manufacturing AR-15 rifle loaded with a 90 round drum also in the fire position in the front bathroom. In that same bathroom, officers also found a Cai-Georgiavt AK-47 with a chambered round and loaded magazine. In the rear bedroom, officers found approximately 360 grams of methamphetamine that Thaxton admitted he intended to distribute. Thaxton admitted to possessing the firearms to protect his drugs, drugs proceeds, and himself. Thaxton also admitted that at the time he possessed the firearms, he was a felon. The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman handled the prosecution.
Tyerice Martell Irvin, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. He will also serve five years on supervised release after completing his prison sentence. Irvin previously admitted that on April 5, 2019, he was a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped by law enforcement for a traffic violation. Based on the smell of marijuana in the vehicle, officers decided to conduct a search of the vehicle and Irvin was asked to step out of the vehicle, which he did. An officer then began to pat Irvin down for weapons. During the pat down, the officer felt a firearm on Irvin. Irvin pushed the officer and fled the area. Officers began to chase Irvin and he ran toward the area of the stores at Patrick Street Plaza. During the chase, Irvin admitted to throwing a loaded semi-automatic Beretta 948 .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol into a dumpster near the Rent-A-Center store while fleeing. He also ran through the Rent-A-Center store where he threw a bag of marijuana in his possession. Officers eventually apprehended him in front of the Rent-A-Center store. Officers found a bag of what they believed at the time was heroin on Irvin but laboratory testing later confirmed the substance to be 3.167 grams of fentanyl. Officers recovered both the marijuana, the fentanyl, and the Beretta 948 .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol. Officers also recovered a SCCY CPX-2 9 millimeter semi-automatic pistol in another dumpster along the route Irvin ran. Irvin admitted that he knew the substance that he possessed was a controlled substance and that he intended to distribute it and that he was carrying the Berretta 948 .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol to protect his drugs, his drug proceeds, and himself. He further admitted that he knew he was prohibited from possessing the firearm because he is a convicted felon. The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman handled the prosecution.
Mark Matthew Smith, 30, of Parkersburg, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony. Upon release from prison, Smith will serve three years of federal supervised release. On December 6, 2017, Smith was a passenger in a vehicle stopped by Parkersburg Police at 3:00 a.m. at the intersection of East Street and 7th Street. Smith admitted that there was a firearm in the vehicle but refused to tell the officer where it was. When Smith began moving his arm toward the vehicle’s center console, the officer directed Smith to get out of the vehicle. An officer retrieved a KAHR .45 caliber pistol from the passenger seat floorboard. Smith was wearing a concealed carry holster wrapped around his chest. An officer ran Smith’s criminal history and learned that he had been convicted of several felonies including forgery, grand larceny, and drug possession. Upon searching him incident to the arrest, police found methamphetamine, cocaine base, several buprenorphine tablets, five counterfeit $100 bills, and six Social Security cards belonging to other people in Smith’s pockets. On October 31, 2019, Smith pled guilty in federal court to being a felon in possession of a firearm. The Parkersburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks handled 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. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from the Project Guardian partners referenced above. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
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Ohio Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Sex Offense Involving a MinorRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Chesapeake, Ohio man was sentenced to federal prison for a sex offense involving a minor, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Johnathan Matthew Taylor, 24, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for traveling in interstate commerce in order to engage in illicit sexual activity with a minor. Following his release from prison, Taylor will serve a seven year term of supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender.
“My office is receiving so many referrals of cases like this one – it’s tragic. I am passionate about protecting our kids,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We’ll prosecute every single one of these cases- EVERY ONE- to protect West Virginia’s children.”
Taylor previously admitted that on June 1, 2019, he communicated via a social messaging application with a minor he believed to be a 15-year-old girl located in Bluefield, West Virginia. Despite knowing her age, Taylor discussed traveling to Bluefield from Ohio to meet the minor to engage in sexual intercourse, but the plans were canceled by the purported minor due to the late hour at which he would arrive. Two days later, on June 3, 2019, Taylor arranged to meet the minor female in Saint Albans, Kanawha County, West Virginia, in order to engage in sexual intercourse. On that same date he traveled from Chesapeake, Ohio to West Virginia, where he purchased condoms before arriving at the location to meet the purported 15-year-old female.
The FBI West Virginia Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in conjunction with the West Virginia States Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. 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.
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Federal Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pled guilty today in federal court for his role in a conspiracy that involved large quantities of methamphetamine which were transported from Akron and sold in West Virginia, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Brad Acy Holley, 39, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
“Holley was responsible for distributing up to 5 kilos of meth in our communities,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “He and his co-conspirators were bringing in tremendous amounts of meth from Akron and peddling it throughout the District. We owe a debt of gratitude to our law enforcement partners that shuttered this drug trafficking organization.”
Holley admitted that between the Fall of 2018, and September of 2019, he participated in a conspiracy with multiple individuals to distribute methamphetamine in the Southern District of West Virginia. During the conspiracy, Holley pooled money with another individual to obtain large quantities of methamphetamine which he and the other individual would then distribute. Holley also began obtaining methamphetamine himself which was transported from Akron and sold in multiple cities in West Virginia including Huntington and Charleston. Holley admitted that he was supplied methamphetamine on a regular basis and that he was aware some of the customers to whom he distributed methamphetamine intended to further distribute the drug across the district. As part of his plea, Holley admitted that he was responsible for distributing up to 5 kilograms of methamphetamine during the conspiracy.
Holley faces 10 years to life in prison when sentenced on April 27, 2020.
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 presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution.
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Three Appear in Federal Court on Meth ChargesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Defendants in three separate cases appeared in federal court on meth charges, said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
“We are prosecuting scores of meth traffickers throughout the District,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Over the past several years, we have made remarkable progress in the battle to end the chaos and destruction brought upon us by drug dealers and drug thugs. We are driven by a sense of urgency and, trust me, I not only have the backs of law enforcement but of the people of West Virginia in this righteous battle for our families and our communities.”
Walter Ray Cavender, age 50, of Leon, Mason County, was sentenced to 108 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Cavender previously admitted that on May 16, 2018, officers served a search warrant at his home on Evans Road in Leon. At the time they served the search warrant, Cavender had approximately 300 grams of methamphetamine in his home which he intended to sell. He also had digital scales and approximately $1300 in cash. The Mason County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey handled the prosecution.
Johnny Belcher, Jr., 35, of Huntington, was sentenced to 42 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Belcher previously admitted that on July 17, 2019, an officer found approximately 24 grams of methamphetamine in his pockets. Belcher told the officers the substance was “ice.” The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor handled the prosecution.
Charles Vincent Hively, Jr., 46, of Charleston pled guilty for his role in a conspiracy that involved large quantities of methamphetamine that were transported from Akron and sold in West Virginia. Hively pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Hively admitted that, on June 7, 2019, officers came to his residence at 1195 Livingston Avenue in Charleston to execute a warrant that had been issued for his arrest. When officers knocked on the door, they saw Hively look out the window and run to the rear of the residence. Hively then threw a cigarette box from a rear window. When officers recovered the box, they discovered that it contained approximately 24 grams of methamphetamine. Officers also recovered additional methamphetamine from inside the residence and Hively admitted that he intended to distribute the drugs. As part of his plea, Hively admitted that he was responsible for distributing up to 200 grams of methamphetamine in the Southern District of West Virginia. Hively faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on April 27, 2020. 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. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearings.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man was sentenced to prison for his role in a federal drug conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Tremayne Swanson, 28, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl.
“Another peddler of deadly heroin and fentanyl is headed to federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “It was the fine work of law enforcement that put Swanson and his co-conspirators out of business. Our partnerships among federal, state and local law enforcement have never been stronger. Our intentional collaboration has resulted in tremendous success in our offensive against drug dealers and drug thugs.”
Swanson previously admitted that between December 2018 and May 2019 he sold heroin for George Lockhart in Huntington, West Virginia.
Operation Free Market was a long-term drug investigation in the Huntington area. The investigation was the result of a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
This case is being 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.
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Huntington Man Sentenced for Illegally Accessing Veterans' RecordsRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man was sentenced to six months in prison for illegally accessing the medical records of six veterans, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jeffrey Miller, 40, a former Veterans Benefits Administration employee, was also sentenced to one year of supervised release.
“We must protect our veterans. Miller used his position with the Veterans Benefits Administration to illegally access the medical records of veterans,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Medical records are protected information and veterans have an expectation and right of privacy. We will prosecute anyone who violates our veterans.”
Miller previously admitted that he illegally accessed the medical records of six veterans between January and May of 2018. Miller further admitted that he took a picture of the medical records of former West Virginia State Senator Richard Ojeda, and then sent the picture to an acquaintance.
The Department of Veterans Affairs – Officer of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Stefan Hasselblad handled the prosecution.
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Three Defendants Appear in Federal Court for Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Three defendants appeared in federal court for gun crimes this week, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
Jason Wattie Buzzard, 35, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for being a felon in possession of firearms. That term of imprisonment will be followed by three years of supervised release. On October 12, 2018, Buzzard, a convicted felon, arranged to pick up Paul William Martin, also a convicted felon, at the Sheetz gas station in order to sell him firearms. Buzzard was prohibited from possessing firearms due to his Kanawha County felony conviction of breaking and entering and a domestic battery conviction. Martin was going to buy the guns from Buzzard with a combination of cash and illegal drugs. Shortly after Martin got into Buzzard’s car, they were stopped by officers with the South Charleston Police Department. Officers were able to locate and recover a .25 semi-automatic handgun and a .22 caliber revolver. Ultimately, Buzzard pled guilty on September 23, 2019. Martin was recently found guilty after a two-day jury trial. Martin faces up to ten years in prison when sentenced on March 11, 2020. The South Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner is handling the prosecution.
David Walker, Jr., 45, of Huntington, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Walker admitted that while on parole, he possessed two firearms. Walker is prohibited from possessing firearms because he was convicted in 2018 of the felony offense of possession with intent to deliver controlled substances in Cabell County, West Virginia. Walker faces up to 10 years in prison when sentenced on April 13, 2020. The West Virginia State Police and the West Virginia Division of Corrections Probation and Parole Office conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor is handling the prosecution.
Ronald Lucas, 36, of Craigsville, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Lucas admitted that on May 10, 2019, law enforcement officers with the Nicholas County Sheriff’s Department were serving an arrest warrant at his home in Craigsville for failure to pay child support. Lucas answered the door wearing an empty nylon holster. When the officers asked where the gun was located, he indicated that it was inside the residence close to where officers could see another individual laying on a bed. When an officer went inside the residence to secure it, a loaded 9 millimeter pistol was located and seized. Lucas faces up to 10 years in prison when sentenced on May 4, 2020. The Nicholas County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Tessman is handling the prosecution.
The Walker 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.
These cases are also 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. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from Project Guardian partners as mentioned above. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
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Wood County Parolee Pleads Guilty to Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Wood County man pled guilty to a drug offense, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Joshua Michael Conger, 41, of Parkersburg, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“388 grams of meth and two guns,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Conger has two prior drug convictions in state court and was on parole at the time of his arrest. He won’t get parole in the federal system.”
On June 19, 2018, members of the Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force executed a search warrant on Conger’s Chevrolet pickup truck at his residence on Gihon Road. Police seized approximately 388 grams of methamphetamine and two handguns from the vehicle. Conger admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine. Conger had previously been convicted in Wood County Circuit Court of operating a methamphetamine laboratory in 2012 and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance in 2016. He was on parole at the time of his arrest in June 2018.
Conger faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 16, 2020.
The Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks handled the prosecution.
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Project Safe Childhood: Two Defendants Sentenced to Federal Prison for Traveling to Have Sex with MinorsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that two different defendants were sentenced to federal prison this week for traveling in interstate commerce for the purpose of having sex with a minor.
“Our law enforcement partnerships are strong - VERY STRONG,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The excellent work of our partners enables us to bring to justice those who prey on children. We will always place the highest priority on protecting our children.”
On January 14, 2020, Ryan Scott Kibble, 33, of Parkersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to serve 57 months in federal prison for traveling in interstate commerce in order to engage in illicit sexual activity with a minor. Upon release from prison, Kibble will be required to serve a term of 15 years of supervised release and register as sex offender. Kibble previously admitted that on March 1, 2019, he began communicating via a social messaging application and text messages with a minor he believed to be a 14-year-old girl located in Parkersburg, West Virginia. Despite knowing her age, Kibble discussed meeting the minor to engage in sexual intercourse. On the evening of March 1, 2019, Kibble also spoke with the purported minor on the phone, further discussing plans to meet the next day in Parkersburg in order to engage in oral sex and sexual intercourse with the minor in his vehicle. On March 2, 2019, Kibble traveled from his work in Belpre, Ohio to an arranged meeting location in Parkersburg in order to engage in sexual intercourse with the purported 14-year-old girl. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the sentencing hearing.
On January 15, 2020, Thomas Wilson Parks, Jr., 33, of Coolville, Ohio, was sentenced to serve 30 months in federal prison for traveling in interstate commerce in order to engage in illicit sexual activity with a minor. Upon release from prison, Kibble will be required to serve a term of 10 years of supervised release and register as sex offender. Parks previously admitted that on March 2, 2019, he began communicating via a social messaging application with a minor he believed to be a 14-year-old girl located in Parkersburg, West Virginia. Despite knowing her age, Parks traveled from Ohio to Parkersburg shortly after beginning to chat with the purported minor in order to engage in sexual intercourse with her. While on the way to the meeting location, Parks stopped to buy condoms. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., presided over the sentencing hearing.
The investigations were both conducted by the FBI West Virginia Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in conjunction with the West Virginia States Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Parkersburg Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is in charge of the prosecutions.
These cases were 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.
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Two Michigan Men Plead Guilty to Federal Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two Michigan men pled guilty to federal drug crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
“Rarely a week goes by that my office doesn’t convict drug dealers from Michigan,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “As long as they keep coming into this District to sell their drugs, we’ll keep prosecuting them.”
Tevin Robinson, 26, of Detroit, entered a guilty plea to an indictment charging him with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone and Xanax. Robinson admitted that in April 2017 he came to Huntington, West Virginia with the intent to distribute oxycodone and Xanax. Officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle Robinson was a passenger in on Interstate 64. Officers located over 200 oxycodone pills and 53 Xanax pills. Robinson faces up to twenty years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 13, 2020. The investigation was conducted by the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
Milik Robinson, 23, of Pontiac, pled guilty to selling methamphetamine. Robinson admitted that on August 19, 2019 he sold an ounce of methamphetamine to a confidential informant behind a residence located at 915 Washington Avenue in Huntington, West Virginia. Robinson faces up to twenty years in prison when sentenced on April 13, 2020. The Cabell County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation.
The plea hearings were held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor is in charge of the prosecutions.
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Former Prison Guard and Mother of Inmate Sentenced to Federal Prison for Scheme to Smuggle Drugs into PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A former Huttonsville Correctional Center guard and the mother of a Huttonsville inmate were sentenced to federal prison for drug crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Mark Steven Taylor, 40, of Richwood, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin. Pamela Gail Adkins, 44, of Oak Hill, was sentenced to 14 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine and heroin.
“Sad and so tragic,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Since becoming United States Attorney, I’ve had many parents tell me they feel a sense of relief when their son or daughter is arrested because at least while incarcerated they won’t have access to drugs. Not Adkins. She wanted deadly meth and heroin delivered to her incarcerated son. And Taylor, a correctional officer who is supposed to uphold the law, totally betrayed public trust to make a little money on the side by smuggling drugs into the prison. Their drug smuggling scheme has them both headed to federal prison.”
Taylor previously admitted that on February 26, 2019, while employed as a Corrections Officer at the Huttonsville Correctional Center, Adkins gave him quantities of methamphetamine and heroin to smuggle into the prison. He further admitted that she paid him $500, and that he had smuggled drugs into Huttonsville on one prior occasion. Adkins admitted giving Taylor the drugs and paying him to smuggle them into the prison where her son was incarcerated.
After being alerted to the scheme by Huttonsville Correctional Center Investigators, members of the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force set up surveillance in Craigsville where they observed Adkins give Taylor the package containing methamphetamine and heroin. Task force officers arrested Taylor after finding him in possession of the drugs at the scene of the transaction. They arrested Adkins in a traffic stop a short distance away.
The Huttonsville Correctional Center and the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks handled the prosecution.
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Wood County Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Benjamin Lee Parsons, 31, of Mineral Wells, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for possessing firearms after being involuntarily committed to a mental hospital. Upon release from prison, Parsons will serve three years of federal supervised release, during which he will receive mental health treatment. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, the Parkersburg Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
“We are simply not going to tolerate the possession of firearms by anyone that has been prohibited as a result of mental health considerations. We are not going to wonder why we didn’t do more after the fact,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Project Guardian is an important, innovative initiative of Attorney General Barr aimed at reducing gun violence. My office is working with ATF and other federal, state and local partners to identify, investigate and prosecute cases like this one where the threat of gun violence is real. Excellent work by the entire team on this important case.”
Beginning in 2016, Parsons was under investigation arising from making threats against police and others and claiming to have interest in terrorist organizations. In December 2015, he wore a mask to a church service in Mineral Wells. In January 2017, he told several witnesses at a church in Parkersburg that he was armed, that he had recently thought about shooting police, that he had been watching violent terrorist videos, and that he had communicated with foreign terrorists and discussed several “soft targets” in Wood County. The Wood County Sheriff’s Department responded and seized numerous firearms from his residence. Parsons was later involuntarily committed to a mental hospital by Wood County Circuit Judge Jason Wharton in February 2017. That adjudication prohibited him from possessing firearms under both state and federal law.
In October 2018, investigators learned that Parsons had acquired additional firearms including a high-capacity semiautomatic FNH model M249S 5.56 caliber assault rifle. The rifle is the semiautomatic civilian version of the Squad Assault Weapon (SAW) used by the United States military. Federal and local police learned that Parsons had obtained the weapon from another individual who told investigators that he had purchased it for Parsons from a licensed firearms dealer in Marietta, Ohio. Police arrested Parsons on October 31, 2018 on a federal charge of conspiracy to provide false information to a federally licensed firearms dealer during the acquisition of a firearm. On November 2, 2018, investigators executed a search warrant at a wooded area in Mineral Wells where Parsons had been living. When investigators executed the search warrant, they recovered the FNH assault rifle and a Molot 5.45x39mm rifle from a locked case Parsons kept at his campsite on the property. The FNH was loaded with approximately 190 rounds of belted ammunition in a drum magazine. Investigators also located and seized 12 magazines for the Molot loaded with 164 rounds of ammunition, 32 additional unloaded magazines, and approximately 640 rounds of 9mm and other rifle ammunition.
On May 20, 2019, Parsons pled guilty in federal court to possessing the SAW and Molot 5.45x39 rifle after being committed to a mental institution.
Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks handled the prosecution. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the plea hearing.
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. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from the following Project Guardian partners: the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, the Parkersburg Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
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Three Sentenced for Federal Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Three defendants were sentenced for federal drug crimes today by United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
“Three more drug dealers are on their way to federal prison for peddling their poisons in and around Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We continue our work with federal, state and local law enforcement to bust up drug dealers and to put drug thugs on notice -- if we find you, we will prosecute you to the maximum extent of the law.”
Quashane Varner, 22, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Varner previously admitted that on March 9, 2018, officers with the Huntington Police Department searched his rental vehicle. Officers found two bags of methamphetamine in the center console. In total, officers found 47 grams of methamphetamine and a digital scale. The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation.
Krystal Ewing, 31, of Huntington, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl. Ewing previously admitted that between December 2018 and May 2019 she conspired with other individuals to distribute heroin and fentanyl in Huntington, West Virginia. Ewing admitted that she would travel to Detroit, Michigan to obtain heroin for George Lockhart for him to sell in Huntington. Ewing is the first defendant sentenced that was prosecuted as part of Operation Free Market, a long-term drug investigation in the Huntington area. The investigation was the result of a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
Kenneth Alexander, 33, of Huntington, was sentenced to 13 months in prison for aiding and abetting the distribution of heroin. Alexander previously admitted that on August 1, 2018, he and another individual sold heroin to a confidential informant in the 1100 block of 9th Avenue in Huntington, West Virginia. The Cabell County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecutions.
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Operation Mountaineer Highway Update: Final Defendant Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Fayette County man pled guilty today for his participation in a drug trafficking operation in Fayette County, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Bobby Mack, Jr., 39, from Scarbro, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin. Mack is the twelfth and final defendant to enter a guilty plea as a result of Operation Mountaineer Highway, an extensive investigation into drug trafficking in the Fayette County area. Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force, with the support of the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department, the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug Task Force, the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, the Fayetteville Police Department, and the Oak Hill Police Department.
“182 grams of heroin. Firearms. $343,097 in drug proceeds,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Mack was part of a significant drug trafficking organization responsible for distributing massive amounts of deadly drugs in southern West Virginia. All of the defendants charged as part of Operation Mountaineer Highway now stand convicted of their crimes. Responding to the opiate crisis with tough law enforcement has been, and will remain, a priority for me and my office. We are achieving remarkable results.”
Mack admitted that he participated in the drug trafficking organization by supplying heroin to a co-conspirator. More specifically Mack admitted that on July 16, 2018, he distributed 182 grams of heroin to co-conspirator. After Mack distributed the heroin, the co-conspirator was stopped by law enforcement officers and admitted that he had obtained the heroin from Mack at Mack’s residence in Scarbro. Based on this information, officers obtained a search warrant for Mack’s residence. While conducting the search warrant, officers located items commonly used in drug distribution, three firearms, and approximately $343,097 dollars in cash. As part of the plea agreement, Mack agreed to forfeit to the United States the firearms which he was prohibited from possessing due to a prior felony conviction, as well as the $343,097.
Mack faces at least 5 years in federal prison and a $5,000,000.00 fine when he is sentenced on April 9, 2020.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy D. Boggess and Andrew J. Tessman are in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
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Ohio Woman Pleads Guilty to Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – An Ohio woman pled guilty today to possessing a quantity of methamphetamine in relation to drug trafficking, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Danielle Seagraves pled guilty to possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“Collaborative and proactive law enforcement efforts are keeping significant amounts of dangerous drugs off our streets,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And it is only by prosecuting cases like this that we can hold the poison peddlers accountable.”
Seagraves admitted that on April 18, 2017, she had in her possession approximately 33 grams of methamphetamine that she intended to sell to individuals in and around Ripley, West Virginia. Before she could complete any drug transaction, officers with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) arrested Seagraves and seized the methamphetamine. Seagraves’ arrest was part of a successful far-reaching April 2017 inter-agency investigation and sweep that ultimately resulted in the arrest of thirteen individuals, eight of whom were charged with meth-related offenses. The investigation into these individuals focused on methamphetamine that was being brought from Ohio into Jackson County, West Virginia. That investigation removed an estimated $320,000 worth of methamphetamine from the community.
Seagraves faces up twenty years in prison when sentenced on April 6, 2020. Seagraves is currently serving a multi-year state prison term in Ohio for drug-related activity.
The Jackson County Bureau of Investigation, comprised of deputies from the Jackson County Sheriff's Department and officers with the Ravenswood and Ripley Police Departments, worked closely with the West Virginia State Police, the Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force, and the DEA, to conduct the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys Kristin F. Scott and Erik S. Goes are handling the prosecution.
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Huntington Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va.—A Huntington woman was sentenced to federal prison for embezzlement, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Frances McComas, 57, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison and five years of supervised release for embezzling money from a federal credit union. She also was ordered to pay $1,000 a month in restitution.
“McComas was a credit union employee that stole from her employer for almost five years,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “As a result of the FBI’s investigation and the subsequent prosecution of McComas by my office, she is headed to federal prison, and just as importantly, she will be paying restitution to the credit union.”
McComas previously admitted that starting in 2015 and continuing until April 2019 she stole $165,500 from the federal credit union’s vault and falsified the financial records to hide the embezzlement. McComas started in 2015 by stealing a few thousand dollars, but she became even greedier as she started taking larger amounts every month, until being caught for the embezzlement almost five years later.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation handled the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Chris Arthur handled the prosecution.
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pled guilty to a gun crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Harry Lee Nguyen, 23, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
“My office is committed to rooting out violence on Charleston’s west side,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “An important part of our strategy is enforcing federal firearms laws and keeping guns out of the wrong hands. Nguyen is prohibited from possessing guns because of his two prior felony convictions.”
Nguyen admitted that in the early morning of August 3, 2019 he was walking on the west side of Charleston with another individual. When police attempted to stop Nguyen, he threw a .40 caliber Smith & Wesson handgun into the yard of a nearby house. The police immediately detained Nguyen and found the firearm.
Nguyen was convicted on February 1, 2016, in the Circuit Court of Kanawha County, West Virginia of Wanton Endangerment Involving a Firearm. He was also convicted on May 1, 2017, in the Circuit Court of Kanawha County, West Virginia of Unlawful Wounding.
Nguyen faces up to ten years in prison when sentenced on April 29, 2020.
The Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Stefan Hasselblad is handling 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.
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Federal Jury Finds Virginia Man Guilty of Sex Offense Involving a MinorRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – A federal jury convicted a Virginia man yesterday after a two-day trial, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. The jury found Jeffrey William Sexton, Jr., 27, of Virginia Beach, guilty of traveling across state lines to engage in illicit sexual activity with a minor on June 1, 2019.
“As a dad, I cannot adequately describe how much matters like this trouble me. Cases like this are disturbing and difficult to work. Sexton thought he was traveling to engage in sex with a 13 year old and, to the nightmare of every parent, even encouraged her to sneak out of her house,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We are blessed that Sexton was communicating with an undercover officer and not a real 13-year-old. We are doing everything within our power to keep West Virginia’s children safe from predators like Sexton. I want to thank the FBI Task Force and my prosecution team for bringing this case to a successful conclusion.”
Sexton had previously been charged in a single-count indictment with travel to engage in illicit sexual activity with a minor. At trial, evidence revealed that Sexton began communicating with an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a 13-year-old girl on a social messaging and dating application on approximately May 28, 2019. During the conversations, Sexton brought up the topic of oral sex with the purported minor. At approximately 1 a.m. on June 1, 2019, Sexton traveled from Bluefield, Virginia, to Bluefield, West Virginia, to meet the alleged 13-year-old after telling her to sneak out of her house. On May 31, 2019, Sexton had also reached out to chat with two other law enforcement officers posing as minors on the same messaging application, discussing oral sex with one officer who stated she was only 14 years old.
Sexton faces up to thirty years in prison when sentenced on May 19, 2020.
The investigation was the result of an undercover operation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s West Virginia Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, which included task force officers from the Raleigh and Mercer County Sheriffs’ Departments.
Senior United States Senior Judge David A. Faber presided over the trial. Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Rada Herrald and Kathleen Robeson handled the prosecution.
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Two Plead Guilty for Roles in Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two defendants pled guilty for their roles in a conspiracy that involved large quantities of methamphetamine which were transported from Akron and sold in West Virginia, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
“This collaborative investigation dismantled a drug trafficking organization that was transporting significant amounts of meth from Akron into West Virginia,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Although our work is never done, it is through investigations like this that we are able to disrupt the supply of dangerous drugs coming into our state and hold drug dealers accountable.”
Bruce David Angeli, 57, of Charleston, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Angeli admitted that between May and June of 2019, he participated with multiple individuals to distribute methamphetamine in the Southern District of West Virginia. During the conspiracy, Angeli frequently obtained quantities of methamphetamine which were transported by other co-conspirators from Akron to be sold in multiple cities in West Virginia including Huntington and Charleston. Once Angeli was supplied with the methamphetamine, he would distribute it to other individuals in various amounts. As part of his plea agreement, Angeli admitted that he was responsible for distributing up to 200 grams of methamphetamine. Angeli faces 5 to 40 years in prison when sentenced on April 6, 2020.
Darla Renae Lattea, 40, of Scott Depot, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and prohibited possession of firearms by an unlawful drug user. Lattea admitted that, on June 11, 2019, agents executed a search warrant at her residence in Scott Depot. During the search, agents seized approximately 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine and four firearms. Lattea was present in the residence during the search and admitted that she possessed the methamphetamine and intended to sell it. Lattea also admitted that she possessed the firearms and that she was a regular user of methamphetamine. As part of her plea, Lattea further admitted that between April and September of 2019, she participated with multiple individuals to distribute methamphetamine in the Southern District of West Virginia. During the conspiracy, Lattea obtained large quantities of methamphetamine which were transported from Akron and sold in multiple cities in West Virginia including Hurricane, Scott Depot, and Charleston. Lattea admitted that she was supplied methamphetamine on credit, that she would distribute the methamphetamine, and that she would return proceeds from the sales to drug dealers from the Akron area. Lattea also admitted that she was responsible for distributing up to 5 kilograms of methamphetamine during the conspiracy. Lattea faces 10 years to life in prison when sentenced on April 13, 2020.
The 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 Task Force, 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 hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecutions.
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Two Jackson County Women Plead Guilty to Stealing FirearmsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two Jackson County women pled guilty to a firearm offense, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Destiny Moore, 19, and Rebecca Sellers, 18, of Ravenswood, pled guilty to stealing firearms from a licensed firearms dealer.
“Tragic. Stealing firearms from a licensed dealer is a serious federal offense,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “These young people who should be thinking about going to school or work, or what movie they would like to see, instead find themselves waiting to learn how much time they will be spending in federal prison as a result of their crimes.”
Moore and Sellers admitted that in the middle of the night on April 7, 2019, along with James Evans and a juvenile, they stole approximately 24 firearms from the Old and New Sports store located in Ravenswood and stole approximately 24 firearms. Moore drove Sellers’ vehicle during the robbery while Evans and the juvenile broke into the store. Police have recovered most of the stolen firearms. Evans pled guilty on December 11, 2019, and the juvenile was prosecuted in Jackson County Circuit Court.
Moore and Sellers face up to 10 years in prison when sentenced on April 22, 2020. Evans is scheduled to be sentenced on April 15, 2020.
The Ravenswood Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks 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.
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Operation Free Market Update: Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man pled guilty to selling fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Bryant Holloway, 41, pled guilty to distributing 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
Holloway admitted that on April 24, 2019, he sold 95 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant for $10,000.
“95 grams of fentanyl -- enough to kill almost 50,000 people,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Fentanyl is powerful and deadly. Many West Virginians have died as a result of fentanyl overdoses. We owe a debt of gratitude to the investigators that kept this from hitting the streets of Huntington.”
Holloway faces between five and forty years in prison when sentenced on April 6, 2020.
Operation Free Market was a long-term drug investigation in the Huntington area. The investigation was the result of a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
This case is being 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.
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Detroit Heroin Dealer Sentenced to Six Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Detroit, Michigan man was sentenced to federal prison for a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Ted Anthony Graham, 32, was sentenced to six years in prison for possession with intent to distribute heroin.
“A Detroit heroin dealer is headed to federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “With the beginning of the new year, you can rest assured that our focus and sense of urgency remain on ridding West Virginia communities of out-of-state drug dealers.”
Graham previously admitted that on July 1, 2014, he was traveling to Charleston, West Virginia on Interstate 64. The vehicle he was traveling in was stopped near the Dunbar exit for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, law enforcement discovered that Graham was in possession of 40.212 grams of heroin. Graham further admitted that on June 3, 2015, his motel room in Kanawha City was searched pursuant to a search warrant. Detectives located 56.093 grams of heroin, a digital scale, a drug ledger, and a black and silver 9mm pistol. Graham admitted that he intended to sell the heroin to other individuals in the Charleston area.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders is handling the prosecution.
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Akron Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – An Akron man pled guilty to a heroin charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Deangelo “O” Reeves, 34, pled guilty to possessing heroin with the intent to distribute it.
“An all too familiar occurrence,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Regardless of whether they are from Detroit or Akron, or right here at home, drug dealers caught peddling poisons in my District will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Reeves admitted that on March 5, 2018 he threw a bag of heroin out of his car while being followed by police on McKee Avenue in Charleston. The heroin had a street value of over $1,000 and Reeves admitted he had intended to distribute it.
Reeves faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on April 22, 2020.
The Metro Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) investigated the case. United States District Judge C. Irene presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Stefan Hasselblad is handling the prosecution.
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Operation Shutdown Corner Update: Two Defendants Enter Guilty Pleas to Federal Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Beckley woman and a Columbus, Ohio man pled guilty today for their participation in a drug trafficking operation in Raleigh County, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Stephanie McClung, 48, and Jason Johnson, 31, both entered guilty pleas to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of a substance containing methamphetamine. McClung and Johnson were charged as a result of a long-term investigation known as Operation Shutdown Corner.
“Operation Shutdown Corner dismantled a multi-state meth pipeline from California to West Virginia,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “McClung and Johnson were two of the 17 individuals charged as a result of the investigation.”
McClung admitted that between June 2018, and September 17, 2019, she worked with other members of a drug trafficking organization (DTO) operating in Raleigh County, West Virginia to distribute methamphetamine. McClung admitted that during this time period she was supplied with distribution amounts of controlled substances from various members of the DTO. She also admitted to selling the controlled substances, which included methamphetamine and heroin, to individuals that she now understands were working with law enforcement as confidential informants. She further admitted to allowing another member of the DTO to have controlled substances delivered to her address. She admitted to allowing this on at least two separate occasions. On one occasion approximately one pound of methamphetamine was delivered and on a second occasion a quantity of heroin was delivered to her address.
Jason Johnson admitted that between June 2018, and September 17, 2019, he participated in the drug trafficking organization by supplying Stephanie McClung and others with distribution amounts of methamphetamine and heroin. During this time period, Johnson admitted to selling more than 50 grams of a substance containing methamphetamine to McClung knowing it was her plan and purpose to re-distribute those drugs in and around Raleigh County and the Southern District of West Virginia. Johnson admitted to meeting with McClung several times a week to supply her with drugs.
Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office, the Beckley Police Department, and the West Virginia State Police.
Both McClung and Johnson face a mandatory minimum period of five years and up to forty years in prison and a $5,000,000 fine when they are sentenced on April 20, 2020.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy D. Boggess and Andrew J. Tessman are in charge of the prosecutions. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Frank W. Volk.
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Operation Free Market Update: Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Conspiracy and Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man pled guilty to a federal drug conspiracy and a gun crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. George Lockhart, 44, pled guilty to an indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
“Lockhart was a felon conspiring with others to distribute deadly heroin and fentanyl in Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “This is yet another successful law enforcement operation that dismantled a drug trafficking network.”
Lockhart admitted that between December 2018 and May 2019 he conspired with other individuals to distribute heroin and fentanyl in Huntington, West Virginia. Lockhart admitted other individuals sold drugs for him at his direction. He also admitted to possessing a firearm during a search warrant in May 2019. He was prohibited by federal law to possess a firearm because he had been convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter in January 2011.
Lockhart faces up to thirty years in prison when he is sentenced on April 6, 2020.
Operation Free Market was a long-term drug investigation in the Huntington area. The investigation was the result of a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
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Huntington Felon Sentenced to 114 Months in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing GunsRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington felon caught with multiple firearms last year was sentenced today to 114 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Randall Allen Eplion, Jr., 30, previously pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
“Prosecutions like this are vital to public safety,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Eplion, a felon, was in possession of 21 firearms, including a machine gun. He traded meth for several of them. We continue to work closely with ATF and other law enforcement partners to enforce guns laws aimed at keeping guns out of the hands of felons and other prohibited persons.”
“ATF is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to protect communities from the illegal use of firearms and the often resulting violent crime,” stated ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge Tommy Estevan of the Louisville Field Division. “Taking stolen guns, including a machine gun, out of the hands of a convicted felon will go a long way toward making our neighborhoods safer for everyone.”
Eplion admitted that, on April 5, 2019, officers with the Huntington Police Department executed a search warrant at his residence located at 427 Rear 6th Avenue, Apartment E, in Huntington. During the search, officers found Eplion in possession of a number of firearms including a .45 caliber pistol, a 5.56 mm rifle, and a 12 gauge shotgun. Eplion was prohibited from possessing firearms based on a prior conviction for first degree robbery in Cabell County.
Eplion admitted as part of his plea that he possessed a total of 21 firearms that officers located during the search. Some of the firearms were stolen, including a weapon stolen from a police cruiser. Eplion admitted that he traded methamphetamine for a number of the firearms. Eplion also admitted that the 5.56 mm rifle qualified as a machinegun, the 12 gauge shotgun qualified as a short-barrel shotgun, and that neither of the firearms were registered as required by federal law.
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 Joseph F. Adams 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.
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Greenbrier County Man Pleads Guilty to Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Greenbrier County man pled guilty to a gun crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jonathan Felts, 30, of Smoot, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Felts admitted that on August 16, 2018, he was a passenger in a motor vehicle driving on Route 20 in Summers County, West Virginia. The vehicle was stopped because the registration plates were not visible. The deputy sheriff could smell burnt marijuana emanating from the vehicle. The deputy had each occupant exit the vehicle. In Felts’ backpack, deputies located a Springfield Armory XDS, .40 caliber six round magazine, numerous empty baggies used in the distribution of controlled substances, a blue digital scale, and approximately three grams of a white crystal substance.
Upon further search of the vehicle, deputies located a Glock, model 27, .40 caliber pistol under the passenger seat and a Springfield Armory XDS, .40 caliber pistol stuffed underneath the cushion of the back seat.
The Springfield Armory XDS, .40 caliber six round magazine that was located in a lock box contained in Felts’ red back pack fit the Springfield Armory XDS, .40 caliber pistol.
Felts was convicted on September 4, 2014, in the Circuit Court of Greenbrier County of Delivery of a Controlled Substance - Oxymorphone. He was convicted on December 22, 2015, in the Circuit Court of Greenbrier County of Burglary.
Felts faces up to ten years in prison when sentenced on April 20, 2020.
The Summers County Sheriff’s Department, the Summers County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders is handling 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.
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Charleston Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Fifteen Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man was sentenced to federal prison for a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Robert Thomas, also known as “Zombie,” was sentenced to 15 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He was also ordered to serve a term of five years on supervised release.
“Thomas had a significant amount of meth and an arsenal of firearms,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And now he’ll be serving many years – 15 years – in federal prison. I am forever appreciative of the work our law enforcement partners do to remove dangerous drug dealers like Thomas from our streets. As a result of their work, we can sleep more soundly at night.”
“Drug dealers with guns are violent criminals who pose an increased threat to the safety of our communities,” stated ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge Tommy Estevan of the Louisville Field Division. “Our ongoing partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement not only are a wise use of resources, but are getting measurable results for the citizens of West Virginia.”
Thomas previously admitted that on January 17, 2017, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at his residence on Joseph Street in Charleston. Detectives located 989 grams of methamphetamine and the following firearms: Masterpiece Arms, 9mm caliber pistol; Kimber, model micro carry, .380 caliber pistol; Russian, model SKS, 7.62 caliber rifle; and, Springfield Armory, model SOCOM 16, .308 caliber rifle. Thomas admitted to possessing the firearms to protect himself and the drugs. He further admitted to possessing the methamphetamine with the intention of distributing it.
The Charleston Police Department, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders 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.
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Arizona Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – An Apache Junction, Arizona man was sentenced to federal prison for a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Clint Gentile, 39, was sentenced to 90 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin.
“The work of the West Virginia State Police and other law enforcement agencies that patrol our highways is critical to our drug enforcement efforts,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “These law enforcement officers are often the first to identify and apprehend drug dealers like Gentile and seize the poisons they intend to peddle.”
Gentile previously admitted that he was traveling on I-64 in Cabell County when the vehicle he was in was pulled over by the West Virginia State Police. Troopers searched the vehicle and found 552 grams of methamphetamine and 11 grams of black tar heroin. Gentile admitted that he intended to sell the drugs.
The West Virginia State Police Task Force West conducted the investigation. They were assisted by the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force in the Northern District of West Virginia. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor handled the prosecution.
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Detroit Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Detroit, Michigan man was sentenced to federal prison for distribution of oxycodone and oxymorphone, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Ricky Walker was sentenced to 30 months in prison followed by a three year term of supervised release for distributing both drugs to an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force Officer on November 2, 2012 on the parking lot of the Comfort Inn in Cross Lanes.
“Another Detroit drug dealer is on his way to federal prison for peddling opiates in West Virginia,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We continue to work with a sense of urgency to hold poison peddlers like Walker accountable.”
Walker previously pled guilty in October 2019, admitting that he knowingly distributed the drugs, which he had transported from Detroit to the Comfort Inn parking lot in Cross Lanes, to someone who he later learned was an undercover law enforcement officer.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John J. Frail handled the prosecution.
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Meds2Go Express Pharmacy, Inc. Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering in Connection with Drug Diversion SchemeRead the Press Release
Related Charleston Pharmacy Previously Shut Down
Pharmacy Agrees to Pay A Total of $250,000 in Community Restitution and Forfeiture
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A pharmacy located in Alum Creek in Lincoln County pled guilty to money laundering, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. The money laundering charge arose out of a conspiracy between the pharmacy and a pain clinic operating as a pill mill to dispense compound opioids for no legitimate medical purpose and outside the bounds of professional medical practice.
“Meds2Go Express Pharmacy is being held accountable for its role in contributing to West Virginia’s opioid crisis,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “This pharmacy put profits before all else and caused great harm to the communities it served. Prosecuting poison peddlers, whether they be a street dealer, drug kingpin, a medical professional or a corporation, has been and will continue to be, a priority for my office.”
In a plea agreement reached with the United States, Meds2Go Express Pharmacy, Inc. will shut down and pay community restitution for the costs associated with drug abuse treatment in West Virginia to redress the harm caused by illicit opioid usage stemming from the sale of prescription opioids.
Meds2Go Express Pharmacy, Inc. admitted that in 2014 and 2015, it filled prescriptions written by physicians employed by a pill mill despite its knowledge that there was no legitimate medical purpose for the prescriptions and that they were prescribed outside the usual course of medical practice. In order to maximize corporate profits, the pharmacy ignored numerous red flags that should have prevented them from dispensing the prescription medications written by the pill mill, such as: (1) an abnormally high amount of prescriptions for widely-abused, highly-addictive controlled substances such as oxycodone; (2) prescribed controlled substances to patients for long periods of time; (3) permitted refills before prior prescriptions should have run out; (4) ignored obvious signs that patients were drug addicts; (5) patients travelled long distances and from out of state; (6) multiple pill mill physicians issued prescriptions to the same patient; (7) numerous family members who were all patients of the pill mill, came to the pharmacy at the same time; (8) insurance companies refused to pay for prescriptions from the pill mill; and (9) cash-only transactions.
Meds2Go Express Pharmacy, Inc. admitted that it engaged in illegal manufacturing of its own supply of oxycodone and methadone due to supply and demand by “compounding” pills in mass quantities at its locations Alum Creek and Charleston. Due to the excessive amount of prescriptions for controlled substances written by the pill mill, the pharmacy could not obtain enough of a supply of oxycodone and methadone from its distributors. In order to keep up with the demand, the pharmacy bypassed purchase restrictions from the distributor by setting up and purchasing compounding equipment, training its employees to compound pills on a mass scale, purchasing powders and other raw materials, and manufacturing pills containing oxycodone and methadone. The compounded pills were then sold to cash-paying customers who had prescriptions written by the pill mill. The pharmacy used the proceeds from the illegal manufacturing and dispensing to carry on the operations of business.
As part of the plea agreement with the United States, Meds2Go Express Pharmacy, Inc. agreed that it will shut down and pay $250,000 toward community restitution and a forfeiture money judgment. The community restitution will be paid for the costs associated with drug abuse treatment in West Virginia to redress the harm caused by illicit opioid usage stemming from the sale of prescription opioids. The West Virginia Crime Victim's Compensation Fund will receive 65% of the community restitution amount, and 35% will be paid to West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Bureau of Behavioral Health and Health Facilities.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration – Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General (OIG). Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew Tessman and Steven I. Loew are handling the prosecution.
The plea agreement in this case can be found
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Huntington Man Sentenced to Prison for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man was sentenced to federal prison for a gun crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jeremy Adam Bartram, 27, was sentenced to 51 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Bartram previously admitted that on July 6, 2019 he was pulled over by the West Virginia State Police in the area of 16th Street Road in Huntington. He admitted that there was a handgun in the bag at his feet in the vehicle. Bartram was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his felony conviction for Arson in the Third Degree in Wayne County, West Virginia.
The West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor handled the prosecution.
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Federal Jury Finds South Charleston Man Guilty of Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A federal jury convicted Paul William Martin, 34, of South Charleston, yesterday after a two-day trial, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. The jury found Martin guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm on October 12, 2018.
“Martin had a laundry list of previous state and federal felony convictions,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Achieving convictions in felon in possession cases is critical to public safety by keeping guns out of the wrong hands. I want to thank the investigators and my prosecutors for their exemplary work in this case.”
Martin was previously indicted on being a felon in possession of a firearm due to previous convictions for possession of a stolen vehicle, forgery, daytime burglary, and fraudulent use of an access device in Kanawha County, West Virginia. Martin also had a previous federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm in the Southern District of West Virginia. At trial, evidence revealed Jason Buzzard had picked up Martin at the Sheetz gas station in order to sell him firearms. Martin and Buzzard were stopped by officers with the South Charleston Police Department, who were able to locate and recover a .25 semi-automatic handgun and a .22 caliber revolver.
Buzzard pled guilty on September 23, 2019, and faces up to ten years in prison when sentenced on January 6, 2020. Martin faces up to ten years in prison when sentenced on March 11, 2020.
The investigation was conducted by the South Charleston Police Department with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the trial. Assistant United States Attorneys L. Alexander Hamner and Andrew Tessman handled the prosecution.
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Charleston Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man was sentenced to federal prison for a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jalen Scruggs, 24, was sentenced to 46 months in prison and three years of supervised release for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“MDENT’s investigation kept 187 grams of meth from making it out on the streets of Charleston,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And now this meth dealer will be spending almost four years in federal prison.”
Scruggs previously admitted that he possessed 187 grams of methamphetamine, packaged in eight separate bags, that he intended to sell. During the course of an investigation, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on Scruggs’ home, where they found the methamphetamine already packaged for sale.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Chris Arthur handled the prosecution.
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United States Attorney Mike Stuart's Statement on Attorney General Barr's Launch of Operation Relentless PursuitRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart issued the following statement:
“Every citizen deserves to live without fear of violence. Under Attorney General Barr’s leadership, the Department of Justice has implemented an “all hands on deck” approach to making communities safer. The men and women in blue, who willingly put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect each of us, can be just as confident in this administration’s backing of law enforcement. The launch of Operation Relentless Pursuit demonstrates the Department’s boundless commitment to combatting violent crime in cities throughout the country that continue to be plagued by it. The Operation further demonstrates our commitment to federal, state and local law enforcement by supporting them with additional manpower and financial resources to fight violent crime. While we are fortunate that West Virginia cities have not experienced increases in violent crime as have other areas in the country, West Virginians must also know that this United States Attorney is proud to stand beside Attorney General Barr and our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to continue the fight against violent crime in our communities and support those working so valiantly to protect and serve.”
For more information on Operation Relentless Pursuit, please see the Department of Justice press release below.
The United States Department of JusticeFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WWW.JUSTICE.GOV/NEWS
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2019
ATTORNEY GENERAL WILLIAM P. BARR ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF OPERATION RELENTLESS PURSUITThe Operation Will Surge Federal Law Enforcement Resources into Seven of America’s Most Violent Cities
WASHINGTON – Today, Attorney General William P. Barr announced the launch of Operation Relentless Pursuit, an initiative aimed at combating violent crime in seven of America’s most violent cities through a surge in federal resources.
Joined at a press conference in Detroit, Michigan, by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Acting Director Regina Lombardo, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Acting Administrator Uttam Dhillon, FBI Director Christopher A. Wray, and U.S. Marshals Service Director Donald W. Washington, Attorney General Barr pledged to intensify federal law enforcement resources into Albuquerque, Baltimore, Cleveland, Detroit, Kansas City, Memphis, and Milwaukee – seven American cities with violent crime levels several times the national average.
“Americans deserve to live in safety,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “And while nationwide violent crime rates are down, many cities continue to see levels of extraordinary violence. Operation Relentless Pursuit seeks to ensure that no American city is excluded from the peace and security felt by the majority of Americans, while also supporting those who serve and protect in these communities with the resources, training, and equipment they need to stay safe.”
“The men and women of ATF are deeply committed to and focused on reducing crime gun violence in our communities,” said ATF Acting Director Regina Lombardo. “We are proud that our efforts have significantly contributed to the historic reductions in violence that our nation has realized in recent years. Operation Relentless Pursuit combines the resources of ATF, DEA, FBI, and U.S. Marshals to support our state and local law enforcement partners in those cities that – regrettably – continue to be plagued by rates of violent crime that are simply too high. Through Relentless Pursuit, we pledge to hold accountable the trigger-pullers, firearm traffickers, violent criminals and those who supply them the guns to terrorize our communities. ATF will aggressively utilize every available tool, including our crime gun enforcement teams, National Integrated Ballistic Information Network and firearms tracing to identify, investigate and support the prosecution of the most violent firearm offenders.”
“Drug traffickers – including cartels and street gangs – will stop at nothing to turn a profit, often using violence and intimidation to expand their reach,” said DEA Acting Administrator Uttam Dhillon. “This targeted surge of resources will further strengthen our ability to work with our federal, state, and local partners to pursue the worst offenders and make our communities safer.”
“The FBI remains committed to providing our specialized expertise and resources to assist our federal, state and local partners fighting violent crime,” said FBI Director Christopher A. Wray. “We are here today to reaffirm our dedication to reducing violent crime in the cities selected for Operation Relentless Pursuit to combat the threats that arise from gangs and criminal enterprises that drive violence in the communities we are sworn to protect.”
“The U.S. Marshals Service is proud of the integral role we play in supporting Attorney General Barr’s strong leadership and commitment to combating violent crime and enhancing public safety throughout our nation,” said U.S. Marshals Service Director Donald W. Washington. “We will continue to work with our local, state, and federal partners to make communities safer by addressing violent crime at its core and taking the worst of the worst fugitives and other felons off the streets.”
The operation will involve increasing the number of federal law enforcement officers to the selected cities, as well as bulking up federal task forces through collaborative efforts with state and local law enforcement partners. The surge in federal agents will be complemented by a financial commitment of up to $71 million in federal grant funding that can be used to hire new officers, pay overtime and benefits, finance federally deputized task force officers, and provide mission-critical equipment and technology.
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AG
19-1421
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Four Men Appear in Federal Court for Immigration CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that four men appeared in federal court before Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. to enter guilty pleas and then receive sentences.
“These four defendants have 11 prior removals between them,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “That is 11 times they’ve skipped line. No one likes a line skipper- not at Disney World and not at our border. They need to follow the necessary process to legally enter the United States.”
Felix Hernandez, Jose Avila-Salmeron, Jorge Lanche-Bustos, and Pastor Lara-Parez, each entered a plea of guilty to the felony offense of illegally reentering the United States. After entering guilty pleas, the Court proceeded directly to the sentencing phase of the proceedings. Felix Hernandez received a sentence of six months incarceration, Jose Avila-Salmaron and Lanche-Bustos received sentences of “credit for time served” and Pastor Lara-Perez received eight months federal incarceration. At the conclusion of their sentence of federal incarceration, they will be immediately remanded to the custody of the Department of Homeland Security for removal proceedings. They have all been in federal custody since September 5, 2019. The investigations were conducted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and assisted by the Montgomery Police Department.
On September 5, 2019, all four men were found in Montgomery, Kanawaha County, West Virginia. Federal agents with ICE had received information from the Montgomery Police Department that the men were working on a railroad project and were not United States citizens. ICE agents investigated the information, corroborated the details, and subsequently located the four men at the described location. ICE agents approached the four men and requested identification from them. All four men produced foreign identification documents and immediately admitted that they were not in the United States legally. They also had no identification documents permitting them legal status. ICE agents took the four men into federal custody. Fingerprinting matched all four men to prior removals from the United States and all four had prior removals from the United States to Mexico. None of the men had obtained permission to legally enter the United States and had not sought legal status or citizenship. All four further admitted to ICE agents that they were Mexican citizens.
Felix Hernandez, 39, had a prior New Jersey felony drug conviction from 2007 and was removed from the United States to Mexico after this felony conviction. Jose Avila-Salmaron, 44, had two prior removals from the United States to Mexico in 2010 and 2017. Jorge Lanche-Bustos had two prior removals from the United States to Mexico in 2015 and 2016. Pastor Lara-Perez, 38, had six prior removals from the United States to Mexico including three removals in 2010, and one in each of the years 2013, 2015, and 2016.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., presided over all of the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is responsible for the prosecutions.
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West Virginia Medical Doctor Sentenced to Prison for Unlawfully Distributing OpioidsRead the Press Release
A medical doctor who practiced in West Virginia was sentenced to prison today for his role in unlawfully distributing opioids.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart of the Southern District of West Virginia and Acting Special Agent in Charge Daniel D. Dodds of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Louisville Division made the announcement.
U.S. District Judge John T. Copenhaver Jr. of the Southern District of West Virginia sentenced Jeffery Addison, M.D., 65, of Charleston, West Virginia, to 18 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. Addison pleaded guilty in September 2019 to one count of distribution of oxycodone.
Pursuant to his guilty plea, Addison admitted that in December 2018 he surrendered his DEA license due to his failure to comply with the federal requirements pertaining to his controlled substance prescriptions. After surrendering his license, between January 2018 and March 2019, Addison continued to distribute oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, to patients without a valid DEA license.
The DEA investigated the case. Assistant Chief Kilby Macfadden and Trial Attorney Andrew B. Barras of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 15 strike forces operating in 24 districts, has charged more than 4,200 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for nearly $19 billion. In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
The Fraud Section leads the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Force. Since its inception in October 2018, the ARPO Strike Force, which operates in 10 districts, has charged more than 70 defendants who are collectively responsible for distributing more than 40 million pills.
Individuals who believe that they may be a victim in this case should visit the Fraud Section’s Victim Witness website for more information.
Columbus Man Sentenced to Almost Nine Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Columbus, Ohio man was sentenced to federal prison for federal drug distribution and firearm offenses, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. D’ Alfonza Mikell, 27, was sentenced to 106 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, and carrying a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. His imprisonment is to be followed by 36 months of supervised release.
“Mikell was a gun-toting, poly-drug dealer from Columbus that made the mistake of peddling his poisons in Charleston,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “As a result of MDENT’s great work, he will now be spending a significant time in federal prison for his crimes.”
Mikell previously admitted that on January 10, 2019, detectives with the Metro Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) stationed themselves around the McDonald’s parking lot of Washington Street East, in Charleston. They had been warned that Mikell had come from Ohio and would be conducting a drug transaction that morning. A white pickup truck, with Mikell and three other individuals inside, pulled in and parked. Detectives watched as the defendant met with a confidential source. After meeting with the confidential source, MDENT detectives approached the truck in which Mikell was seated. Mikell was ordered out of the truck and at that time, detectives observed a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol hidden underneath his leg. The defendant also had over 25 grams of methamphetamine and 2 grams of heroin inside his jacket pocket. Digital scales, 13 more grams of methamphetamine, and 2 more grams of heroin were inside the truck’s console.
The Metro Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys L. Alexander Hamner and Erik Goes handled the prosecution.
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Former West Virginia Correctional Officer Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A former West Virginia correctional officer, John Edward Roach II, was sentenced to federal prison today for a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. John Roach, 47, of St. Albans, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“A disgraceful breach of public trust,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “As a long-time correctional officer, Roach knew firsthand the dangers drugs pose in the prisons and ignored them. Those who violate the public’s trust will be held accountable. If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million times, there’s no such thing as a little bit of public corruption.”
In early April 2019, an inmate at the South Central Regional Jail paid Roach $2,000 to smuggle contraband into the jail. Law enforcement then arranged a sting operation. On April 11, 2019, Roach met with an undercover agent and received a $2,000 payment and four ounces of methamphetamine. Roach was quickly arrested before he could transport the methamphetamine to the jail.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, the St. Albans Police Department and the Boone County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. United States District Court Judge Joseph Goodwin imposed the sentence. Former Assistant United States Attorney Drew Inman and Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen Robeson handled the prosecution.
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Three Defendants Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
Charleston, W.Va. – Three defendants were sentenced to federal prison today for gun crimes, announced in United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
“We are prosecuting record numbers of gun crimes aimed at keeping guns out of the wrong hands,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “If you violate federal gun laws, whether you are a prohibited person, a gun-toting drug dealer, you steal firearms or possess illegal weapons, we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”
Jeffery Turley, 31, of Lincoln County, was sentenced to 84 months in prison for using an unregistered sawed off shotgun when he stole a car. Turley previously admitted that he possessed a sawed off shotgun that was not registered with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Turley had a long history of prior convictions and was prohibited from being in possession of a gun. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, the West Virginia State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Arthur handled the prosecution.
Joseph Keith Abshire, 33, of Dunbar was sentenced to 16 months in prison for being felon in possession of a firearm. Abshire previously admitted that on March 18, 2018, he was pulled over for his reckless driving in St. Albans, while following members of the Last Rebels Motorcycle Club. A St. Albans Police Officer smelled alcohol on his breath. With permission, the officer began to conduct a field sobriety test. Pursuant to the officer’s request, Abshire acknowledged that he had a knife on his belt. When the officer lifted Abshire’s shirt to take possession of the knife, a handgun in his waistband was observed. A loaded Para Ordnance, model p12-45, semi-automatic pistol was recovered. In addition to the knife and gun, the officer removed a sharpened deer antler from Abshire’s boot. Inside of Abshire’s truck, the officer found a magazine and holster to a separate firearm, as well as a denim cut typical of a prospect in the Last Rebels Motorcycle Club. Abshire had previously been convicted of a misdemeanor offense of domestic battery in Kanawha County Circuit Court and was therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the St. Albans Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner handled the prosecution.
Keanna Carter, of Charleston, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Carter previously admitted that she possessed 251 oxycodone pills at her house to be distributed for money. She further admitted that she possessed firearms in the house for the purpose of assisting her with drug trafficking. The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) and the Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Arthur handled the prosecution.
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Jackson County Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Jackson County man pled guilty to a firearm offense, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. James Evans, 19, of Ravenswood, pled guilty to stealing firearms from a licensed firearms dealer.
“Stolen firearms too often end up in the hands of those who commit violent crimes - risking law enforcement and the public,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “24 firearms - the potential for harm was significant. Great work by the Ravenswood Police Department and ATF.”
Evans admitted that on April 7, 2019, he and three other individuals broke into the Old and New Sports store located in Ravenswood and stole approximately 24 firearms. Rebecca Ann Sellers, 18, and Destiny Moore, 19, were also charged in the case. A juvenile was prosecuted in Jackson County Circuit Court. The trial for Sellers and Moore is set for January 27, 2020.
Evans faces up to 10 years in prison when sentenced on April 15, 2020.
The Ravenswood Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks handled the prosecution.
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Federal Jury Finds Akron Man Guilty of Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A federal jury convicted an Akron, Ohio man yesterday after a day-long trial, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. The jury found Devon Alexander, 30, guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm on August 16, 2018.
“An Akron felon with a gun in Charleston,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “This has become an all too common occurrence, particularly in Charleston and Huntington. Federal gun laws are straight-forward – persons convicted of felonies, whether they be federal or state offenses, are prohibited from possessing firearms. I applaud the work of the law enforcement agencies involved and my entire team for their work in securing this conviction.”
Alexander was previously indicted on a single count of being a felon in possession of a firearm due to previous convictions for tampering with evidence and having weapons under disability in Summit County, Ohio. At trial, evidence revealed that during a search of a house in Charleston, police witnessed Alexander toss a Citadel 1911 semi-automatic handgun into the yard while attempting to flee.
Alexander faces up to ten years in prison when sentenced on March 5, 2020.
The investigation was the result of a joint effort by the Metro Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the West Virginia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the trial. Assistant United States Attorneys Stefan Hasselblad and Monica Coleman handled the prosecution.
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Statement of United States Attorney Mike Stuart on Change in Leadership at the Huntington Police DepartmentRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart issued the following statement in response to the change in leadership at the Huntington Police Department:
“I congratulate Hank Dial on his appointment as City Manager for the City of Huntington and thank him for his leadership since becoming the Chief of the Huntington Police Department in 2018. I commend him for his service throughout his lengthy law enforcement career. During Chief Dial’s tenure, my office and the Huntington Police Department forged a strong partnership and took unprecedented actions to secure the safety of the City of Huntington and its citizens.
In turn, I congratulate Ray Cornwell on assuming the role of Interim Chief of the Huntington Police Department. I look forward to our continued partnership under Chief Cornwell’s leadership. Together, we’ll continue our efforts to make Huntington the safest city in America. The City of Huntington remains in good hands.”
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Federal Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pled guilty today in federal court for his role in a conspiracy that involved large quantities of methamphetamine which were transported from Akron and sold in West Virginia, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jared Matthew Whittington, 30, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
“Whittington participated in a significant meth trafficking network operating between Akron, Ohio and West Virginia,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “He was responsible for distributing up to 500 grams of meth. A collaborative investigation by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies shut down this group of meth traffickers. We’re working together to close off the steady pipeline of drugs coming from Akron.”
Whittington admitted that during the months of June and July of 2019, he participated with multiple individuals to distribute methamphetamine in the Southern District of West Virginia. During the conspiracy, Whittington obtained various quantities of methamphetamine which were transported from Akron to be sold in multiple cities in West Virginia including Teays Valley and Charleston. Whittington admitted that he supplied methamphetamine to other West Virginia based meth dealers on a recurring basis and that he was aware the methamphetamine he sold would be re-distributed in West Virginia. As part of his plea agreement, Whittington admitted that he was responsible for distributing up to 500 grams of methamphetamine.
Whittington faces 5 to 40 years in prison when sentenced on March 9, 2020.
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 presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution.
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