Southern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Three Drug Defendants Appear in Federal Court in HuntingtonRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – – Three defendants involved in various drug offenses appeared today in federal court in Huntington. Ellis Simmons, Jr., 49, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and prohibited possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. In separate prosecutions, Brandon Ware entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and Shadeed Muhammad entered a guilty plea to attempting to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The FBI Drug Task Force and the Huntington Police Department conducted the Simmons and Ware investigations. The FBI Drug Task Force, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department conducted the Muhammad investigation.
“I have pledged my commitment to assist the City of Huntington in removing drug dealers from their streets,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “These prosecutions exemplify how hard we are working to do just that.”
In the Simmons prosecution, members of the FBI Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at 2317 Lincoln Avenue in Huntington on September 14, 2015. During the search, officers located Simmons and two additional individuals inside the residence. Officers seized approximately 25 grams of heroin and a .22 caliber pistol from a room where Simmons was located during the search. Simmons was previously convicted of multiple felony offenses and admitted to possessing the gun. Simmons also admitted that during the month of September 2015, he and others used the residence to distribute heroin.
In the Ware prosecution, Ware admitted that, from November 2014 to May of 2016, he conspired with others to distribute over 100 grams of heroin in the Huntington area. Ware frequently received quantities of heroin which had been transported from Detroit on consignment and Ware would distribute the heroin in Huntington. Ware then returned money from the sales to the source of the heroin from Detroit. Ware admitted that he was responsible for the distribution of up to 400 grams of heroin during the conspiracy.
In the Muhammad prosecution, Muhammad admitted that he mailed approximately one pound of methamphetamine from a post office in California to a residence in West Huntington on April 13, 2016. When the package arrived at the Huntington Post Office the next day, Postal Inspectors seized the package and discovered that it contained methamphetamine. Muhammad admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine to an individual who was to receive the package at the West Huntington residence.
Ware faces a mandatory minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years in prison and Muhammad faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison when they are sentenced on October 7, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecutions. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearings.
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Mexican National Man Pleads Guilty and is Sentenced for Immigration CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Mexican national man pled guilty to the felony offense of Reentry of a Removed Alien, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Eduardo Rios-Rios, 26, was immediately sentenced to a “time served” sentence, having served nearly four months in federal custody. He was remanded to ICE custody for removal proceedings from the United States. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Kenova Police Department.
“We prosecute one line-skipper after another,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And we will continue to do so until they enter our country legally.”
On March 30, 2019, Rios-Rios was found in Kenova, Wayne County, West Virginia by local police during a traffic stop. He gave the police an alias and was ultimately arrested and taken to the Western Regional Jail. ICE agents matched his fingerprints to those of Eduardo Rios-Rios, who had been previously removed from the United States. ICE agents spoke to the defendant to confirm his identity. Rio-Rios admitted to being in the United States illegally and that he had used an alias. Rios-Rios had no identification documents permitting him legal status in the United States.
Fingerprinting matched Rios-Rios to a prior removal from the United States in 2011 from El Paso, Texas. Rios-Rios was found by immigration judges to be in the United States illegally and he was deported to Mexico. He had not obtained permission to legally enter the United States and had not sought legal status or citizenship. Rios-Rios further admitted to ICE agents that he was a Mexican citizen.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is responsible for the prosecution.
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Barboursville Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Barboursville man pled guilty today to federal drug charges, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Mathew Byrd, 32, entered a guilty plea to an indictment charging him with distribution of heroin and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
“Black tar heroin and a gun,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We don’t want drug dealers like Byrd in our communities.”
Byrd admitted that on January 31, 2019, he sold seven grams of black tar heroin to a confidential informant. Byrd also admitted to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Byrd faces five to forty years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 7, 2019.
The Violent Crime Drug Task Force West and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. 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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Defendants Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
Bluefield, W.Va. - United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that two defendants were sentenced to prison in federal court in Bluefield. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentences.
Alvin Gardner, 31, of Bluefield, was sentenced to 151 months in prison for distribution of oxymorphone. Gardner pled guilty in February, admitting that he sold a quantity of oxymorphone to an informant on August 15, 2018, in Bluefield. He further admitted that he sold oxymorphone to an informant on three other occasions in August of 2018, and that on August 21, 2018 authorities found 193 oxymorphone pills, 165 oxycodone pills and $4655 in his Bluefield residence. The case was investigated by the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force under the Bluefield Pill Initiative, part of a joint law enforcement effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illegal distribution of prescription pills and other drugs in communities across Southern West Virginia.
Antonio Lancaster, 36, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution at McDowell, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for possession of a weapon by an inmate. Lancaster pled guilty in March, admitting that on December 6, 2018, he possessed a handcrafted weapon known as a “shank” while he was incarcerated at the prison. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
“Two more convicted felons headed to the federal pen,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “On average, 130 people each day die from opioids. 130 people. We have super-charged enforcement efforts and we are making a difference. We have taken a ‘tough on crime’ approach. Those in our community that break federal law, cause violence on our streets, and aid the deterioration of the social fabric of our families and communities will not be treated with kid gloves by this office. And once prosecuted and incarcerated, we fully expect each inmate to follow the rules. There is simply no excuse for breaking the law, being convicted and sentenced, and, while incarcerated, placing our prison guards and workers in harm’s way. No excuse whatsoever.”
The cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John File.
Wood County Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Wood County man pled guilty to illegally possessing ammunition, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Robert Adams, 34, entered his guilty plea before Senior United States District Judge David Faber. Adams was prohibited from possessing ammunition as a result of being convicted of burglary in Wood County.
On July 23, 2017 Adams was stopped by an officer with the Parkersburg Police Department for a traffic violation. Adams hid a shotgun shell in his pocket so the officers would not find it. Officers subsequently recovered the shell from the holding cell where Adams was being held.
The Parkersburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case. The sentencing hearing is set for November 4, 2019, before Judge Faber.
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.
Kanawha County woman sentenced for a federal drug chargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Kanawha County woman was sentenced today for a federal drug charge. Bree Eberbaugh, 28, of Charleston, pled guilty on March 1, 2019, to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
“Fentanyl is a deadly killer,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “My office is working overtime to pursue every lead and root out every purveyor of the poisons killing our communities. You’ll find no sympathy here for anyone assisting the drug trade including fentanyl, In every case, I will seek the maximum sentence permissible.”
Eberbaugh admitted that on August 28, 2017, her apartment was raided pursuant to a search warrant. During the search, over 50 grams of fentanyl was discovered. Eberbaugh stated that she believed she was selling heroin, but forensic analysts determined the substance to be fentanyl.Eberbaugh admitted that she helped arrange sales for the fentanyl and acknowledged that some fentanyl had been sold just prior to the search warrant. Eberbaugh also admitted that she had assisted another individual with selling and distributing fentanyl.
Eberbaugh was sentenced to 54 months in federal prison, followed by three years on supervised release. Judge Faber specifically noted the seriousness of the defendant’s conduct and the danger it poses to the public.
MDENT conducted the investigation. The sentencing hearing was held before United States District Judge David A. Faber. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner is handling the prosecution.
Kanawha County Man Sentenced for Mail FraudRead the Press Release
Sentenced to eighteen months in federal prison for stealing from law firm and real estate company
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Robert Casdorph was sentenced to eighteen months of incarceration, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Casdorph, 58, of Charleston, West Virginia previously entered a guilty plea to the federal felony offense of Mail Fraud on February 6, 2019. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $134,755.44, to the law firm and real estate company where he was previously employed, as well as an insurance company that paid back a portion of defendant’s theft. United States Attorney Mike Stuart praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service.
“Cases like these literally defy explanation. Casdorph was trusted by his employer to the level that he was even promoted to help manage the company’s money. Instead of returning that trust with honest, hard work, Casdorph devised a terrible scheme to steal for one reason – personal greed,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Returning trust by biting the hand that feeds you. Makes no sense. We prosecute cases like these to the fullest extent of the law.”
Casdorph previously worked at a Charleston, West Virginia law firm and land company as a runner. In 2011, he was internally promoted to receive accounts and help manage money. Casdorph devised a scheme to defraud the law firm by including personal bills within the bills that the law firm was required to pay. He would present a check for signature that included both the law firm/land company bill and his personal bills totaled together. These included power, water, cell phone, state and local taxes and credit card bills. Casdorph would then place the check in the mail. This scheme went on for four years, lasting through 2016. Casdorph also used firm monies to renovate his home. Finally, Casdorph forged the name of a law firm member on three checks and gave the checks to local vendors. The total financial loss to the law firm and real estate company was at least $134, 755.44. Casdorph is no longer employed by the law firm/land company.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes handled the prosecution.
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Project Parkersburg Update: Parkersburg Man Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Edward Marks, 33, of Parkersburg, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Marks was prosecuted as part of Project Parkersburg – a major takedown and dismantling of a multi-state drug trafficking organization (DTO) responsible for distributing methamphetamine and heroin. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the FBI, the Parkersburg Police Department, the Dayton Ohio Police Department, and the Parkersburg Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force. The long-term, joint investigation resulted in at least 29 individuals being charged in federal and state court, the seizure of 121 pounds of ICE methamphetamine, six kilograms of cocaine, 217 grams of heroin, and 290 grams of fentanyl.
“Marks is one of the 17 individuals charged in a federal indictment as a result of Project Parkersburg,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The law enforcement operation shut down a significant DTO responsible for trafficking massive amounts of drugs in Wood County and elsewhere.”
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is responsible for the prosecution.
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Fayette County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Fayette County man who sold heroin to an informant and possessed heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine pled guilty to federal drug charges, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jason Dean Treadway, 37, of Fayetteville, entered a guilty plea to distribution of heroin and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and quantities of heroin and fentanyl. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force (CWVDTF).
“Heroin. Fentanyl. Meth. Guns,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Treadway’s residence was a regular drug den. Our drug task forces do phenomenal work in ridding our communities of dangerous drug dealers like Treadway.”
On January 14, 2019, Treadway sold heroin to an informant at his Deepwater Mountain Road residence in Fayetteville. On January 15, 2019, members of the CWVDTF executed a search warrant at the residence and seized 446 grams of methamphetamine, 89.59 grams of heroin, 90.82 grams of fentanyl, and three handguns. Treadway’s girlfriend, Jessica Hall, 29, was also charged with distribution of heroin and fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl. She pled guilty in May 2019 to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and quantities of heroin and fentanyl. Treadway faces 5 years to 60 years when he is sentence on October 3, 2019. Hall faces 5 to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on September 11, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is handling the prosecution. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the plea hearing.
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Arkansas Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – An Arkansas man pled guilty to drug and gun crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Justin Rogers, 37, of Mountain View, Arkansas, pled guilty to possessing 146.75 grams of methamphetamine and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. The investigation was conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
“If you’re not from West Virginia but are bringing crime, drugs and trouble to this good state, you’re not welcome in West Virginia,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Troublemakers and hoodlums need not bring their dastardly deeds here and, if they do, they’ll get what they deserve if they catch my attention. We’re working with our law enforcement partners to prosecute bad guys and to put them behind bars as long as possible.”
Rogers admitted that on November 2, 2018, he possessed a 12 gauge Hatfield shotgun, and a Springfield .45 caliber ACP pistol. He admitted he carried and used the firearms in part to protect himself, his drugs, and his drug proceeds. He admitted he possessed the firearms and drugs in his truck in Kenna, Jackson County, West Virginia.
Rogers faces five years up to life in prison when he is sentenced on October 3, 2019.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders is handling the prosecution.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is 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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Wood County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Wood County man who operated a pawn shop in Mineral Wells pled guilty to a federal gun charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Alonzo Clark Nichols, 38, entered a guilty plea to possession of an unregistered machine gun. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force (PNTF) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
“This is an egregious case,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Firearms dealers are held to a common standard of complying with federal laws. In the wrong hands, the modified firearm could’ve been the instrument of the next terrible disaster. We will not tolerate such disregard for laws that are intended to protect law enforcement and the public.”
In January 2019, Nichols was a federally licensed firearms dealer operating 5 Star Pawn on Elizabeth Pike in Mineral Wells. On January 4, 2019, Nichols gave a police officer a gun part called an auto sear designed to convert a pistol from semiautomatic to fully automatic. On January 8, 2019, Nichols sold another auto sear to the officer. On January 11, 2019, PNTF and ATF agents executed a search warrant at 5 Star Pawn where they seized additional auto sears and several rounds of 25mm high explosive incendiary tracers used by the United States military. Auto sears meet the definition of machinegun under federal law. Consequently, it is unlawful to possess an auto sear unless it has been registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Despite having a federal firearms license, Nichols did not have authority to possess or sell machineguns, machinegun parts, or other National Firearms Act (NFA) weapons. He faces up to ten years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 25, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is handling the prosecution. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the plea hearing.
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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###Summersville Man Sentenced to Prison for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Jeffrey Alan Kummer, 30, of Summersville, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for possessing two sawed-off firearms. Stuart commended the efforts of the Summersville Police Department, the Nicholas County Sheriff’s Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
“In order to protect our Second Amendment rights, we must strictly enforce federal firearms laws,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Gun owners need to be responsible and follow the letter and spirit of our gun laws.”
On March 24, 2018, a Summersville Police Officer and a Nicholas County Deputy Sheriff responded to a domestic violence complaint at Kummer’s Hughart Lane residence in Summersville. Kummer was also wanted on a capias issued by the Kanawha County Circuit Court. The officers entered the residence and encountered Kummer in the bedroom with two sawed-off firearms, a .20 gauge shotgun and a .22 caliber rifle. The shotgun had been reported stolen from a federally licensed firearms dealer in January 2018. Kummer told police that the shotgun had been sawed-off prior to his having purchased it several months earlier. He admitted cutting the .22 rifle himself. Short barreled rifles and shotguns are illegal to possess unless they are registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer record. Neither firearm had been registered. Kummer pled guilty in March 2019.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. 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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Detroit Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Heroin OffenseRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two Detroit men were sentenced to federal prison for heroin trafficking crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
“Far too many Detroit drug dealers have come to Huntington to peddle their poisons,” said United States Mike Stuart. “Since the very first day I became United States Attorney, I pledged my support to fighting the onslaught of out-of-state drug dealers causing death and destruction in the City of Huntington. We are working tirelessly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute and imprison those that prey on the citizens of Huntington and surrounding area.”
Rudolph Donnell Willis, 45, was sentenced to 48 months in prison, having previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin. Between March and June of 2015, Willis received heroin which he delivered on multiple occasions to a residence located at 1751 Buffington Avenue in Huntington. Willis provided the heroin to the occupants of the residence and the occupants would in turn distribute the heroin to various customers. Willis later collected money from the heroin sales at the residence. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the residence on June 29, 2015. Just prior to execution of the warrant, officers observed Willis enter the residence. During the search, Willis and other individuals in the residence were arrested and officers seized heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine.
Charles Deshawn Lockhart, 27, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, having previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Between November of 2014 and May of 2016, Lockhart and others sold heroin in Huntington after it was transported from Detroit. During his participation, Lockhart received quantities of heroin from other individuals which he would sell to various customers. After distributing the heroin, Lockhart would return the proceeds to other individuals. Lockhart admitted that on, November 14, 2014, he possessed approximately 10 grams of heroin in Huntington which he intended to sell. Lockhart also admitted that he sold heroin on multiple occasions during the investigation to confidential informants. As part of his plea agreement, Lockhart admitted that he was responsible for the distribution of up to 400 grams of heroin during his involvement in the conspiracy.
Both of the investigations were conducted by the FBI Drug Task Force and the Huntington Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecutions. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentences.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.), a focused enforcement effort that seeks to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas.
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Ohio Man Sentenced for Traveling to Meet a Minor for SexRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – An Ohio man was sentenced today to spend 10 years in federal prison for attempting to entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity and traveling in interstate commerce in order to engage in illicit sexual activity with a minor, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
“The message should be clear -- if you try to sexually exploit our children and we find you, we will prosecute you,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
Douglas James Allmon, 51, of Canton, Ohio, previously pled guilty to both charges in January 2019. Allmon admitted that during August and September 2018 he communicated via text message with a minor he believed to be a 14-year-old girl in Parkersburg, West Virginia. During the conversations, Allmon attempted to persuade and entice the minor to meet him in order to engage in sexual intercourse. On September 7, 2018, Allmon traveled from his home in Ohio to Parkersburg, West Virginia, in order to have sex with the minor. Only then did Allmon discover that the minor was actually an undercover law enforcement officer.
Upon his release from prison, he will be required to serve a term of supervised release of 15 years. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.
The investigation was conducted by the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia States Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the FBI Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Parkersburg Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald was in charge of the prosecution. The sentence was handed down by United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
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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United States Attorney Mike Stuart Issues Statement in Recognition of West Virginia DayRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart issued the following statement in recognition of West Virginia Day:
“On June 20, 1863, the greatest state in the greatest nation on earth was born out of struggle as a beacon to freedom and individual liberty. We have certainly struggled at times along our path but West Virginia remains a tremendous beacon for freedom and liberty with amazing economic potential today.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR BELOVED WEST VIRGINIA! A great history with only brighter, bigger, bolder days ahead. Our mantra must be: Bold in vision; Bold in purpose. We must compete and we must compete to win. Greatness is at our doorstep if we choose to embrace it. Our brightest days are surely ahead.
I’m always proud to be a West Virginian in these mountains, along these ‘Country Roads’, among our great people.
Take time today to appreciate our blessings and our opportunities on this special day.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY WEST VIRGINIA!”
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Public Health Alert - THC Infused Edibles: A Potential Hazard to KidsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart wants the public to be aware that THC-infused edibles are being packaged in a manner that is appealing to kids. Parents and caregivers need to be aware of this fake candy and potential other THC infused products containing, in some cases, potent levels of THC. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant to insure the safety of consumable products that could be ingested, intentionally or innocently, by their children.
On June 15, 2019, members of an Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Initiative interdicted a parcel containing 7.5 lbs. of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) infused candy. The parcel originated in California and was destined for Florida when intercepted. Both packages of candy had clear warnings to keep out of reach of children and animals, however, the packaging was almost identical to commercially available products. The AHIDTA Seizure Bulletin can be found here.
“Trick or Treat will never be the same again. This fake “candy” is all trick and no treat,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “It is packaged like candy. It looks like popular candy. It tastes like candy. But, instead, it is a very powerful and potent way to get high. Any unsuspecting child or teenager could easily stumble along a package and innocently eat it not realizing the potency of the THC infused in the product. The average marijuana joint contains .3 grams of THC. This fake “candy” contains nearly 35% more THC than an entire average joint. It is outrageous that this powerful drug is marketed to children. Parenting is challenge enough without having to check a child’s candy for potent levels of THC. This just means parents will have to work double duty on Halloween. I want to personally thank AHIDTA for its initiative and its interdiction of this dangerous product.”
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Photo comparing packages of authentic candy and THC infused edibles.
Dunbar Man Sentenced to Prison for Gun and Meth CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Brandon Starr Clemons, 33, of Dunbar, was sentenced to 41 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Stuart commended the efforts of the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
“No, it’s not Groundhog Day,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart, “but, yes, we’ve convicted yet another felon caught with firearms and dealing meth and he’s going to prison for a substantial stay.”
Clemons pled guilty in March 2019, admitting that he sold methamphetamine to an MDENT informant in December 2016 and that he possessed two firearms at a residence in South Charleston when he was arrested on December 13, 2016. Clemons was prohibited from possessing the Lorcin, .380 and Hi-Point, 9mm pistols due to his having been convicted in Kanawha County Circuit Court of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance in 2008.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. 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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Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Traveling to Meet a Minor for SexRead the Press Release
Defendant faces up to 30 years in federal prison and up to life on federal supervised release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Donald E. Ward, 59, of Logan, Ohio pled guilty today to traveling in interstate commerce in order to engage in illicit sexual activity with a minor, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
“We’re working with our law enforcement partners as hard and as fast as possible to identify and prosecute those who troll the internet to prey on minors,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “My intention is to lock up the monsters that prey on our children and families.”
Ward admitted that beginning in January 2019 he began communicating via a social media application and text message with a minor he believed to be a 14-year-old girl in Parkersburg, West Virginia. On February 13, 2019, Ward traveled from Ohio to Parkersburg in order to meet the minor to engage in sexual activity, including oral sex. Only then did Ward discover that the minor was actually an undercover law enforcement officer.
Ward faces up to 30 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 11, 2019. Upon his release from prison, he will be required to serve a term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.
The investigation was conducted by the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia States Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the FBI Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Parkersburg Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
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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Kanawha County Meth Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- A Kanawha County methamphetamine dealer was sentenced today to 10 years in prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Douglas Matthew Spry, 42, stands convicted of possession with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine. The investigation was conducted by the Nitro Police Department, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations.
“Drug dealers aren’t welcome here,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “If they chose to peddle their poisons in our communities, we will push for the longest sentences possible.”
Spry admitted that on December 10, 2017, his vehicle was the subject of a traffic stop near Nitro, West Virginia. The vehicle was stopped for a defective registration light. An officer with the Nitro Police Department could smell burnt marijuana emanating from the vehicle. During a search of the vehicle, officers located digital scales, a large amount of United States currency, and 70.41 grams of methamphetamine in the glove box. Spry denied knowledge of the methamphetamine but informed the officer that his fingerprints would likely be on the bag.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders is handling the prosecution.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is 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.
Kanawha County Man Sentenced for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.VA. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that a Kanawha County man was sentenced in federal court on his conviction of felon in possession of a firearm. Malcolm Griffin, 27, was sentenced to 46 months in prison.
Griffin pled guilty on January 29, 2019, admitting that on July 5, 2018, he was a prohibited felon in possession of a firearm.
The case was investigated by the Charleston Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Chris Arthur handled the prosecution. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence.
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Charleston Man Sentenced for Meth DistributionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for distributing methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
Charles Washington-Robinson, 35, admitted that on four occasions in 2016 and 2017, he sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant. Each of the sales took place at or near the Charleston Town Center Mall.
“Meth sales -- not the kind of retail business that anyone wants at a shopping mall,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Great work by Charleston Police Department and my team to get Washington-Robinson off of our streets and behind bars.”
Senior United States District Judge David Faber imposed the sentence. The investigation was conducted by the Special Enforcement Unit of the Charleston Police Department. Former Assistant United States Attorney Matt Davis and Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Tessman handled the prosecution.
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Former Office Manager Sentenced for Embezzlement Scheme and Related Tax FelonyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – A former office manager for a Bluefield business was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison for an embezzlement scheme and related tax felony charges, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Roseanna Coomes, 67, of Bluefield, West Virginia, previously pled guilty to executing a decade-long wire fraud scheme where she embezzled more than $969,000 from her employer, Cole Truck Parts. She also pled guilty to a related tax offense. As part of the plea, Coomes agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $969,316.68 to Cole Truck Parts and $64,330.10 to the Internal Revenue Service. The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations and the Bluefield Police Department conducted the investigation.
“Unbelievable. Coomes embezzled almost $1 million from her employer,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “As a result of the great work of law enforcement, her employer will receive restitution and Coomes is going to prison.”
At her plea hearing, Coomes admitted that from about January 1, 2007, through mid-2017, as the office manager at Cole Truck Parts, she defrauded her employer by writing checks to herself and to another person and disguising those checks by making false entries into the company’s accounts. She further agreed that she made false statements on her tax returns for numerous years by not reporting that income.
Former Assistant United States Attorney Meredith Thomas and Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess handled the prosecution. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence.
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California Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A California man pled guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Gerardo Delgadillo, Jr., 22, entered a guilty plea to an indictment charging him with possession with the intent to distribute marijuana.
“Now we know why there’s never any room in the overhead bin – 30 pounds of pot in his luggage,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “It doesn’t matter whether drug dealers transport drugs into West Virginia on foot, or by car, train or plane – we will send them packing.”
Delgadillo admitted that on October 17, 2018, he had flown to Tri-State Airport in Kenova, West Virginia from California. He admitted to possessing approximately 30 pounds of marijuana in his suitcase. He admitted he intended to sell the marijuana.
Delgadillo faces up to five years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 5, 2019.
The Violent Crime Drug Task Force West conducted the investigation. 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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Cabell County Woman Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Cabell County woman pled guilty today in federal court to three counts of bank fraud, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Kimberly Dawn Price, also known as Kimberly Dawn Swann, age 60, of Huntington, was employed as a staff accountant with a local accounting firm. Between 2009 and 2015, in the course of her employment, Price wrote and forged signatures on checks on at least three accounts belonging to the firm’s clients without authorization. Price deposited checks into her own bank account and used the money to pay gambling debts, as well as other expenditures.
“A thief is a thief,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I don’t care whether you are stealing money to pay your gambling debts or to donate to a charity, if you are caught stealing your company’s money, we’re going to prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”
Price faces a maximum of 90 years of imprisonment and a $3 million fine when she is sentenced on September 9, 2019.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Virginia State Police were in charge of the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing.
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Cabell County Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Cabell County man was sentenced today to spend seven years in federal prison for child pornography crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Scott Edward Riggs, 41, of Huntington, previously entered his guilty plea to distribution of child pornography in March. Stuart commended the investigative work of the Department of Homeland Security Homeland Security Investigations, the West Virginia State Police, and the Queensland (Australia) Police Service.
“A despicable crime,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We work with law enforcement across the United States and abroad to protect our children from pedophiles like Riggs. This case is particularly pathetic.”
Riggs admitted to using his phone to secretly record a video of a minor in the shower at his residence in Cabell County in late 2017. Riggs then extracted still images from the video depicting the 13-year-old minor and uploaded the images of child pornography to an image-hosting website. He admitted that he knew that other users would be able to access, view, and download the images of child pornography from the website.
Riggs will be placed on federal supervised release for 15 years following his release from prison. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.
Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald handled the prosecution. The sentencing hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
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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Branchland Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Fentanyl OffenseRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Branchland woman caught delivering fentanyl to another individual last year in Huntington was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Rebecca S. Bryant, 41, previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl in federal court in Huntington. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Huntington Police Department.
“Fentanyl. It’s a killer,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “That’s why we are relentless in our efforts to identify and prosecute all fentanyl dealers.”
On May 23, 2018, officers with the Huntington Police Department observed Bryant meet with another individual in her vehicle in the parking lot of the Little Caesar’s restaurant located at 100 7th Avenue in Huntington. After meeting with the individual, Bryant left the lot and officers conducted a traffic stop of Bryant’s vehicle. Bryant admitted that she had provided a package containing drugs to the individual. The other individual was also stopped and officers seized a package containing in excess of 100 grams of fentanyl. Bryant admitted that she received the fentanyl earlier the prior week and that, on May 23, she was directed to deliver it at the Little Ceasar’s.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. The sentence was imposed by United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
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 Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A man from Detroit, Michigan, pled guilty to a federal drug trafficking charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Eddie Riago-Javone Bryant, 27, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin before Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the Charleston Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
“Another Detroit drug dealer is convicted,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “They are not welcome in the Southern District of West Virginia.”
According to public court hearings and Bryant’s plea agreement, Bryant sold drugs to a police undercover confidential informant in Charleston and Cross Lanes, West Virginia, on February 8, 2018; February 12, 2018; and February 14, 2018. Bryant sold drug mixtures containing heroin, fentanyl, and phencyclidine (PCP). On February 15, 2018, investigators arrested Bryant at the Cross Lanes Motel 6 and found that he was carrying around 30 grams of a heroin mixture, $688 in drug proceeds, and a digital scale.
After Bryant’s release from jail, he again sold a mixture of heroin and fentanyl to a confidential informant on April 18, 2018, in Charleston. Investigators arrested Bryant and executed a search warrant at his apartment on West Washington Street. They recovered approximately 12 grams of a heroin and fentanyl mixture and found a .22 caliber revolver hidden in a cereal box in the kitchen cabinets.
Bryant faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 10, 2019. Assistant United States Attorneys Drew O. Inman and Joshua C. Hanks are handling the prosecution.
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St. Albans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A St. Albans man pled guilty to a federal firearms charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Dakota Zachary Williams, 24, pled guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon before Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the St. Albans Police Department, Nitro Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
At public court hearings, it was established that on January 19, 2019, police stopped Williams for erratic driving in St. Albans. Williams told an officer that he was swerving because he was rolling a blunt while driving and that he had marijuana in his cup holder. Investigators searched his SUV and found a loaded pistol under the driver’s seat and marijuana. They arrested Williams and found that he was carrying more marijuana, various pills, and around 3 grams of methamphetamine.
Further, on February 12, 2019, police arrested Williams again in the parking lot of Walmart in Nitro, where Williams had shoplifted an item. On scene, investigators recovered another loaded pistol from Williams’ pocket and a box ammunition.
Williams had previously been convicted for felony wanton endangerment in 2016 and his right to possess a firearm was not restored. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 11, 2019. Assistant United States Attorney Drew O. Inman 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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Four Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Four drug dealers were sentenced to prison today, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentences.
“The message is clear – we don’t want drug dealers in our communities,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Cocaine. Fentanyl. Methamphetamine. Heroin. And for peddling their poisons in and around Huntington, these drug dealers received prison sentences ranging from 34 to 87 months in federal prison.”
Elizabeth Powers, 29, of Barboursville, was sentenced to 87 months in prison for possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Powers previously admitted that on June 14, 2018, she was pulled over on I-64 in Wayne County. Officers found a black bag in her vehicle that contained one kilogram of cocaine. She told officers she intended to sell the cocaine for money. The Kenova Police Department conducted the investigation.
Brandon Scott Kidd, 39, of Huntington, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for selling fentanyl and methamphetamine. Kidd previously pled guilty to distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine in federal court in Huntington. On July 16, 2018, an informant working at the direction of the Sheriff’s Department went to Kidd’s residence located at 831 15th Street in Huntington to purchase fentanyl. Insider the residence, Kidd sold the informant fentanyl in exchange for $220. Kidd then offered to sell, and sold, the informant methamphetamine in addition to the fentanyl. Later that day, deputies executed a search warrant at Kidd’s residence. During the search, deputies recovered approximately 12 grams of fentanyl and approximately 48 grams of methamphetamine. As part of his plea agreement, Kidd admitted that he distributed fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine in Huntington between July of 2017 and July of 2018. Kidd further admitted that he allowed others to stay in his residence for the purchase of storing and selling drugs. The FBI Drug Task Force and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation.
Oshae Hamilton, 25, of Huntington was sentenced to 39 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute heroin. Hamilton previously admitted that on June 27, 2018, West Virginia Parole Services and members of the Huntington Police Department located approximately 60 grams of heroin in his residence. He admitted to officers that he intended to sell the heroin.
Curtis Traylor, also known as “Gurt”, 51, of Huntington, was sentenced today to 34 months for distributing heroin in Huntington, West Virginia. Traylor previously admitted that on October 12, 2017, he met a confidential informant and drove to the Family Dollar in Huntington. He gave the informant six grams of heroin in exchange for $400.
The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigations of Hamilton and Traylor.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecutions of Powers, Hamilton and Traylor. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution of Kidd.
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###Federal Inmate Pleads Guilty to Weapon ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that a federal inmate pled guilty to a weapon charge. Joshua Allen, 29, pled guilty to being an inmate in possession of a weapon, admitting that on December 7, 2018, while he was an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution at Beckley, he possessed a handcrafted weapon known as a “shank.” He admitted that a staff member at the prison recovered the weapon after he tried to discard it. Allen faces up to five years in prison, consecutive to the sentence he is now serving, when he is sentenced on October 2, 2019.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John File. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided at the plea hearing.
Mingo County Woman Sentenced for Theft of Social Security Income BenefitsRead the Press Release
Defendant fraudulently obtained over $90,000
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Mingo County woman was sentenced to six months of federal incarceration for fraudulently obtaining Social Security Income benefits, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Elizabeth Muncy, 43, of Kermit, Mingo County, West Virginia was further placed on supervised release for three years once she is released from custody. She was also ordered to pay restitution to the Social Security Administration in the amount of $91,683. United States Attorney Mike Stuart praised the work of the Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General and the United States Social Security Administration.
“Stealing social security benefits is despicable – truly despicable,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I have no sympathy whatsoever for anyone ripping off social security and hard-working taxpayers by fraudulently stealing public benefits. It is truly a despicable, disgraceful act.”
Muncy applied for Title XVI Social Security benefits in 1987. These Social Security benefits are based on income and living arrangements, and create a duty on the recipient to report a change in income or living arrangements. In 2008, Muncy indicated that she was married, but claimed she was not residing with her spouse. In fact, Muncy was residing with her spouse and had been married and living together since 2006. Their combined income would have lowered the amount of money she was receiving every month from the Social Security Administration. From October 2006 through October 17, 2017, Muncy received $91,683 in Social Security benefits in excess of the amount she was due. On April 18, 2018, Muncy gave a detailed statement to federal investigators with the Office of Inspector General admitting that she was living with her spouse the entire time and knew that she was receiving money that she was not entitled to receive.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes handled the prosecution.
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Guatemalan National Man Pleads Guilty to Immigration CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Guatemalan national man pled guilty to the felony offense of Reentry of a Removed Alien, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Baltazer Victorino-Tulul-Ajqui, 30, will be sentenced on September 11, 2019. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“Two prior removals,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We will keep sending line skippers back until they enter the country the right way.”
On May 1, 2019, Tulul-Ajqui was found in Charleston, Kanawha County, West Virginia by ICE agents who received a tip that he was working illegally in the United States. ICE agents located Tulul-Ajqui’s residence and arrested him when he confirmed that he was in the United States illegally. Tulul-Ajqui had no identification documents permitting him legal status in the United States.
Fingerprinting matched Tulul-Ajqui to two prior removals from the United States in 2010 and 2015. In both cases, Tulul-Ajqui was found by immigration judges to be in the United States illegally and he was deported to Guatemala. He had not obtained permission to legally enter the United States and had not sought legal status or citizenship. Tulul-Ajqui further admitted to ICE agents that he was a Guatemalan citizen.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is responsible for the prosecution.
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Georgia Man Sentenced to 151 Months in Federal Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Georgia man was sentenced today to 151 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Clifford Allen Angle, 32, previously pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“151 months. Over 12 years in federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Drug dealers need to understand, West Virginia isn’t the place to bring your drugs and guns.”
Angle was arrested on August 1, 2017, in downtown Charleston with a firearm and a quantity of methamphetamine. Pursuant to his plea agreement, he admitted that he traveled from Georgia with approximately two ounces of methamphetamine to distribute in West Virginia. He also admitted that he has two prior drug trafficking convictions.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. In imposing the sentence, Judge Goodwin noted the severity of the sentence and stated it was appropriate based on Angle’s extensive criminal history, and the “remarkably and appallingly” lenient sentences previously imposed upon him in state court.
The investigation was conducted by the Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Steve Loew handled the prosecution.
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Former Substance Abuse Treatment Counselor Sentenced for Distribution of FentanylRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that David Reeves, 51, of Beckley, a former substance abuse treatment counselor, was sentenced to 16 months in prison for illegally distributing fentanyl to a substance abuse treatment patient. Stuart commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
“Tragic – an employee of a substance abuse treatment center distributing fentanyl to a patient being treated for opioid use disorder,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
As part of his plea, Reeves admitted that he had an inappropriate relationship with a patient at Charleston Treatment Center (CTC), where he worked as a counselor from 2016 through October 2018. Reeves admitted to giving the patient fentanyl patches he had stolen from his wife’s supply, and at the time he gave the patient the fentanyl, he knew the patient was being treated for opioid use disorder at CTC. The evidence also showed that Reeves sold fentanyl to a different patient of CTC.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the case. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn handled the prosecution.
This prosecution is the result of the formation of the Opioid Fraud Abuse and Detection Unit (OFADU), a Department of Justice initiative that uses data to identify and prosecute individuals that are contributors to the national opioid crisis. The Southern District of West Virginia is one of 12 districts nationally to participate in the pilot program.
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Operation Saigon Sunset Update: Last Defendant Sentenced for his Role in Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Barboursville man caught selling heroin in January 2018 was sentenced today to 90 days home confinement and five years of probation for his role in a federal drug conspiracy charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Silas Pardue, 34, previously pled guilty to an indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute heroin.
“The sun has set on Operation Saigon Sunset, but it is rising in Huntington. The future is incredibly bright for the greater Huntington area,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “All 15 defendants charged for their involvement in the Peterson drug trafficking organization have now been sentenced. The sentences imposed in this case range from 97 months in prison to Pardue’s sentence of 90 days of home confinement. We are tough on drug dealers that peddle poisons in our communities, but we always hope that more of our defendants take the path that Pardue has chosen to take -- the path of recovery and finding honest employment.”
Pardue admitted that between August 2017 and April 2018 he conspired with individuals to distribute heroin in Huntington, West Virginia. As part of the plea agreement, Pardue admitted that Manget Peterson, also known as “Money,” supplied him with heroin to use or to sell. Pardue admitted to selling heroin to a male in January 2018 at the WalMart on Route 60 in Huntington. Pardue admitted to being a “runner” for Manget Peterson.
This 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.
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Huntington Man Sentenced for Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man was sentenced to 15 months in prison on a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Ralph Wray, 36, previously pled guilty to an indictment charging him with possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“Another meth dealer locked up,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Every week we send more meth dealers to federal prison.”
Wray admitted that on July 23, 2018, he purchased methamphetamine at a home on Oakland Avenue in Huntington. He left the home and an officer with Huntington Police Department saw what appeared to be baggies of methamphetamine hanging from his belt. The officer approached Wray and Wray admitted the baggies contained methamphetamine. The baggies contained approximately 33 grams of methamphetamine.
The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Meth Distribution and Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.VA. – A Charleston man pled guilty to federal drug and gun crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jackie Harper, 27, pled guilty to distributing over 170 grams of methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“An all too common occurrence – a felon with a gun. Dealing meth,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And another common occurrence – we convict those drug dealing felons with guns.”
Harper admitted that he sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant working for MDENT on four separate occasions in August and September 2018. Upon execution of a search warrant on September 19, 2018, law enforcement officers also found a firearm on Harper. Harper is prohibited from having a firearm due to his prior conviction for malicious assault in the Circuit Court of Kanawha County
Harper faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on August 21, 2019.
United States District Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Chris Arthur is handling the prosecution.
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Project Parkersburg Update: Parkersburg Man Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Theodore Gibson, 35, of Parkersburg, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Gibson was prosecuted as part of Project Parkersburg – a major takedown and dismantling of a multi-state drug trafficking organization (DTO) responsible for distributing methamphetamine and heroin. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the FBI, the Parkersburg Police Department, the Dayton Ohio Police Department, and the Parkersburg Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force. The long-term, joint investigation resulted in at least 29 individuals being charged in federal and state court, the seizure of 121 pounds of ICE methamphetamine, six kilograms of cocaine, 217 grams of heroin, and 290 grams of fentanyl.
“This investigation resulted in the largest meth bust -- to date -- in West Virginia and Ohio history,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Breaking up this DTO and locking up these drug dealers has no doubt saved a number of lives.”
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is responsible for the prosecution.
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Project Charleston Update: Charleston Woman Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.VA. -- A Charleston woman was sentenced today for her role in distributing methamphetamine and conspiring to distribute at least 50 grams of methamphetamine. Juanita Carrie Haynes, 54, was sentenced to 108 months, or nine years, in prison. Haynes was one of several defendants arrested in November of 2018, after a long-term investigation into a drug-trafficking organization on the West Side of Charleston.
“9 years. Haynes will be serving 9 years in federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “As I said in November when the Project Charleston arrests were made, if you are dealing drugs or causing trouble on Charleston’s West Side, we will arrest you and, if convicted, incarcerate you for as long as possible.”
In February 2019, Haynes was found guilty by a federal jury. The jury found that Haynes distributed about 3.5 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant on June 18, 2018. The jury also found that Haynes conspired with others including her son, Edwin Shaffer, to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine. The conviction was based in part on trial testimony that detailed the extent of Haynes’ methamphetamine sales, most of which occurred in a trailer she shared with Shaffer and the recovery over 150 grams of methamphetamine that was intended for distribution at the residence she and Shaffer shared in July 2018.
Edwin Shaffer entered a guilty plea for his role in the conspiracy. His sentencing is scheduled for June 13, 2019.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team handled the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman was in charge of the prosecution. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence.
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Fayette County Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Fayette County woman who sold heroin and fentanyl to an informant and possessed heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine pled guilty to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jessica Lynn Hall, 29, of Fayetteville, entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and quantities of heroin and fentanyl. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force (CWVDTF).
“Meth. Heroin. Fentanyl and guns. All powerful and deadly,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Great work by the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force in putting an end to Hall’s drug dealing.”
In January 2019, Hall sold heroin and fentanyl to an informant on three occasions at her Deepwater Mountain Road residence in Fayetteville. On January 15, 2019, members of the CWVDTF executed a search warrant at the residence and seized 446 grams of methamphetamine, 89.59 grams of heroin, 90.82 grams of fentanyl, and three handguns. Hall’s boyfriend, Jason Treadway, 38, was also charged with distribution of heroin and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl. His trial is scheduled for July 22, 2019. Hall faces 5 to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on September 11, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is handling the prosecution. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the plea hearing.
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Clay County Woman Sentenced for FEMA FraudRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Clay County woman was sentenced for embezzling federal FEMA disaster benefits, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Pamela Taylor, 57, was sentenced to 10 months in prison, 2 months of home confinement, and a $10,000 fine for making multiple false statements to FEMA and causing the agency to provide her with over $18,000 in fraudulent, undeserved benefits. Taylor has already paid $18,149.04 in restitution. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the United States Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General (DHS-OIG) and the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations.
“There’s no such thing as a little bit of FEMA fraud. Taylor’s fraudulent scheme took FEMA dollars away from those who needed it the most,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Federal disaster benefits are critical to rebuilding infrastructure, homes and lives – not for lining the pockets of individuals who suffered no loss. As I stated earlier this month, you can rest assured that my office is working with appropriate federal agencies to investigate the issues of disaster relief, and the use of federal funds related to the historic 2016 floods. Any party that abused their position of authority, violated the public trust, or misused taxpayer dollars will be held accountable.”
“Defrauding federal programs is always an egregious act. Disaster relief fraud is even more serious because of the limited nature of the funds intended to assist Americans in their time of greatest need,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark Tasky of DHS-OIG. “DHS-OIG is pleased to have worked this investigation jointly with the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to show the good people of West Virginia that justice has been served upon Taylor, who knowingly and willfully disregarded federal laws to personally enrich herself at a time when many people affected by this disaster were just trying to survive.”
Taylor admitted that she falsely registered for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster benefits after the June 2016 flood in Clay County, West Virginia. Taylor claimed that her primary residence was damaged by the flood and that she was staying in a rental unit after the flood. In fact, her primary residence was undamaged, and she still resided there. Due to her false statements, she received more than $18,000 in FEMA benefits to which she was not entitled.
United States District Court Judge the Honorable Irene C. Berger presided over the sentencing hearing. Former Assistant United States Attorney Meredith George Thomas and Assistant United States Attorneys Philip Wright and Stefan Hasselblad handled the prosecution.
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Three Men Appear in Federal Court for Immigration CrimesRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that three men appeared in federal court before United States District Judge Irene Berger in Beckley.
“Seven. Seven prior removals between them. Seven is not a lucky number in this case,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We are a welcoming nation to legal immigrants but no one likes a line skipper – not in traffic, not at Disney World, and not the immigration line. If you break the laws on coming to the United States, you cannot stay. We continue to work closely with ICE and our state and local partners to identify and remove those in the United States illegally.”
Luis Figueroa-Zuniga, 44, a Honduran national, and Samuel Hernandez-Hernandez, 31, a Mexican national, received sentences of “credit for time served.” They both were immediately remanded to the custody of the Department of Homeland Security for removal proceedings. They previously entered guilty pleas to the felony offenses of Reentry of a Removed Alien on March 28, 2019, and have been in federal custody throughout the proceedings. The investigations were conducted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
On February 1, 2019, Figueroa-Zuniga was found in Ronceverte, Greenbrier County, West Virginia. Federal agents with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) had received a tip that he was working illegally at a restaurant. ICE agents investigated and located Figueroa-Zuniga leaving his residence to travel to the restaurant. ICE agents requested identification from him. Figueroa-Zuniga immediately admitted that he was not in the United States legally and had no identification documents permitting him legal status. ICE agents took Figueroa-Zuniga into federal custody. Fingerprinting matched Figueroa-Zuniga to a prior removal from the United States in 2005. Figueroa-Zuniga was found by immigration judges to be in the United States illegally and was deported to Honduras. He had not obtained permission to legally enter the United States and had not sought legal status or citizenship. Figueroa-Zuniga further admitted to ICE agents that he was a Honduran citizen.
On January 22, 2019, Hernandez-Hernandez was found in Beaver, Raleigh County, West Virginia. Federal agents with ICE had received information that Hernandez-Hernandez was incarcerated in the prison facility and was not a United States citizen. Agents confirmed this information and they lodged a detainer against him. ICE agents further confirmed Hernandez-Hernandez was not in the country legally by speaking with him telephonically. Hernandez-Hernandez immediately admitted that he was not in the United States legally and had no identification documents permitting him legal status. Fingerprinting matched Hernandez-Hernandez to two prior removals from the United States in 2015 and 2016. Hernandez-Hernandez was found by immigration judges to be in the United States illegally and was deported to Mexico. He had not obtained permission to legally enter the United States and had not sought legal status or citizenship. Hernandez-Hernandez further admitted to ICE agents that he was a Mexican citizen.
Juan Carlos Reyes-Molina, 23, a Honduran man, entered a guilty plea to the felony offense of Reentry of a Removed Alien. He faces up to two years of incarceration when he is sentenced on September 12, 2019.
On March 9, 2019, a West Virginia State Police Trooper saw a car that was stopped at Mile Marker 52 on the West Virginia Turnpike outside of Beckley, Raleigh County, West Virginia. Three men were standing outside a car with its emergency blinkers on. When the Trooper pulled in, the men ran to the car and began to drive away. The Trooper asked the driver what was happening and for a driver’s license. The driver could not communicate with the Trooper due to a language barrier and did not have a driver’s license. The Trooper contacted a translator service provided by ICE to assist. The driver and two other individuals spoke with ICE agents telephonically and all three were found to be in the United States illegally. All three men were taken into custody and fingerprinted. Reyes, one of the three men, was found to be a prior reentry case. Specifically, his prints matched four prior removals from Arizona and California in 2017 and 2018. Reyes admitted to ICE agents that he was in the United States illegally and had not obtained permission to legally enter the United States. He had not otherwise sought legal status or citizenship. Reyes further admitted to ICE agents that he was a Honduran citizen.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the West Virginia State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is responsible for the prosecutions.
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Jackson County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Jackson County man pled guilty to federal gun crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Robert Logan Gorman, 28, pled guilty to being a drug user in possession of a firearm and to illegally possessing a firearm silencer.
“Drugs users and guns – a bad combination,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Those who violate our gun laws will face prison time. Federal gun laws carry stiff penalties.”
At the plea hearing, Gorman admitted that he is an unlawful user of and addicted to methamphetamine. He admitted that he possessed a firearm and firearm silencer on October 6, 2018, near Ravenswood.
He faces up to 20 years in prison and a $500,000 fine when he is sentenced on August 21, 2019.
The investigation was conducted by the Ravenswood Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Steve Loew is handling the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the plea hearing.
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 Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- A Charleston man pled guilty today to a federal gun crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Tijuan Tyson, 30, entered his guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Charleston Police Department.
Tyson admitted that on October 19, 2015, he was approached by officers because he looked similar to a suspect involved in a robbery. He appeared nervous, had his hands in his pocket, and dropped a bag of suspected marijuana on the ground prior to taking off on foot. He was apprehended and during a search incident to arrest, officers located the loaded and operable Arsenal CO, 9 mm caliber pistol, which was listed as stolen, in his pocket.
Tyson is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has been convicted of the felony of use of an access device with the intent to defraud.
Tyson faces up to ten years in federal prison when he is sentenced in August 2019. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the plea 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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Jackson County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Jackson County man was sentenced to eight years in federal prison for a child pornography crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Connor Anthony Putillion, 23, of Ripley, previously entered his guilty plea in January 2019 to one count of attempted receipt of child pornography. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department.
“These are horrendous crimes,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Guys like Putillion that prey on innocent children need to be locked up.”
Putillion admitted to asking a 13-year-old minor to send him sexually explicit photographs via Snapchat, although the minor never complied with his repeated requests. Putillion admitted that he had previously driven the same 13-year-old minor from West Virginia to Virginia, where he groped her genital area over her clothing. Putillion had at least one other video of suspected child pornography on this cell phone.
Following his release from prison, Putillion will spend 25 years on federal supervised release. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Rada Herrald and Emily Wasserman handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin handed down today’s sentence.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Charleston Man Sentenced on Federal Firearms Charge and Violating Terms of His Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man was sentenced on federal firearms charge, said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Michael D. Williams, 50, was sentenced to 72 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and violating the terms of his supervised release. The investigation was conducted by the Charleston Police Department, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Williams previously pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. On October 13, 2018, Williams got in an altercation at the Transit Mall in downtown Charleston and pulled a firearm on an individual. An officer from the Charleston Police Department witnessed the altercation and arrested Williams. Williams was on supervised release for a prior federal conviction for conspiracy to commit arson.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Steve Loew handled the prosecution.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is 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 Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pled guilty to a federal drug and firearm charges, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Randall Lee Patton, 26, pled guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a felon before Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), Nitro Police Department, Charleston Police Department, South Charleston Police Department, Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
“These cases just keep coming – felons with guns dealing drugs,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And we just keep prosecuting them to keep our communities safe.”
At public court hearings, it was established that on August 2, 2018, Christian Ryan Bowles brought over a pound of pure methamphetamine to Patton’s house on Garrison Avenue in Charleston. Bowles supplied Patton with 34 grams of Bowles’ methamphetamine. Patton then had his neighbor, George Ray Breckenridge, transport the 34 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential police informant in Dunbar, West Virginia.
Further, on January 12, 2019, police investigators executed a search warrant at an apartment where Patton was staying on South Pinch Road in Pinch, West Virginia. The investigators found Patton exiting his room where a Kel-Tech pistol was lying on the nightstand. Patton was prohibited from possessing firearms because of his prior felony conviction for unlawful wounding. Patton was arrested and searched incident to arrest, and investigators found he was carrying over 4 grams of methamphetamine for resale.
Patton faces up to 50 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 21, 2019. Assistant United States Attorney Drew O. Inman 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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South Charleston Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A South Charleston man has been sentenced on federal drug and gun charges, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. James Michael Hill, 50, was sentenced to eight years in federal prison on three counts of distribution of marijuana and one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Hill was previously convicted in federal court in April of 2001 for distribution of a cocaine base. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT).
“Another felon. More drugs, more guns,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Hill is a repeat offender. Eighteen years later and he’s selling drugs again -- and he’s going back to federal prison.”
Hill admitted that on April 30, 2018, he sold marijuana to a confidential informant. He also admitted to having an associate of his sell marijuana to a confidential informant on May 7 and May 9, 2018. Based on those sales and a subsequent search warrant, MDENT detectives were able to seize over 10 kilograms of marijuana, over 600 grams of methamphetamine, $34,904 in U.S. currency, two luxury vehicles, and five firearms belonging to Hill. Hill agreed that the money, vehicles, and firearms were tied to his drug operation and proceeds.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner handled the prosecution.
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Wood County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Wood County man who possessed firearms after being involuntarily committed to a mental hospital pled guilty to a federal gun charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Benjamin Lee Parsons, 31, of Mineral Wells, entered a guilty plea to illegal possession of a firearm. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, the Parkersburg Narcotics and Violent Crimes Task Force (PNTF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
“Excellent work by law enforcement,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “These guns were definitely in the wrong hands.”
On October 31, 2018, investigators executed a federal search warrant on a wooded property in Mineral Wells where Parsons had been living in a tent. The search warrant was the culmination of an investigation of Parsons related to his acquisition of 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. 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.
Parsons was prohibited from possessing the firearms and ammunition as a result of having been involuntarily committed to a mental hospital in February 2017 by Wood County Circuit Judge Jason Wharton. Parsons faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 27, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is handling the prosecution. Senior United States District David A. Faber presided over the plea hearing.
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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Mexican National Man Sentenced for Immigration CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Mexican national man was sentenced for the felony offense of Reentry of a Removed Alien, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Manuel Ortiz-Sanchez, 44, received a “time-served” sentence and was immediately remanded to ICE agents for administrative deportation proceedings. Ortiz-Sanchez has been in custody since January 16, 2019, over four months of federal incarceration. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the West Virginia State Police.
“Two prior removals,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Individuals like Ortiz-Sanchez that want to come to the United States must obtain permission or seek legal status or citizenship.”
On January 16, 2019, Ortiz-Sanchez was found in Chelyan, Kanawha County, West Virginia. West Virginia troopers had stopped a car for failure to maintain control on the West Virginia Turnpike. The driver offered a Mexican Consular notification document and the passengers, including Ortiz-Sanchez, did not have drivers licenses or other identification. The State Police contacted ICE, who spoke to the individuals telephonically in Spanish. Ortiz-Sanchez admitted being in the United States illegally. Federal agents with ICE responded to the scene and took Ortiz-Sanchez into custody. Ortiz-Sanchez immediately admitted that he was not in the United States legally and had no identification documents permitting him legal status in the United States.
Fingerprinting matched Ortiz-Sanchez to two prior removals from the United States in 2015. In both cases, Ortiz-Sanchez was found by immigration judges to be in the United States illegally and he was deported to Mexico. He had not obtained permission to legally enter the United States and had not sought legal status or citizenship. Ortiz-Sanchez further admitted to ICE agents that he was a Mexican citizen.
Senior United States District Judge David Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is responsible for the prosecution.
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