Southern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Media Advisory -- United States Attorney Mike Stuart and Law Enforcement Partners to Hold Press ConferenceRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart will hold a press conference tomorrow, Wednesday, February 20, at 10:30a.m., to discuss developments regarding health care fraud related matters.
WHO: United States Attorney Mike Stuart, Southern District of West Virginia
Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Wes Quigley, Federal Bureau of Investigation
Group Supervisor Jim Hischar, Drug Enforcement Administration
Assistant Special Agent in Charge Mary Ann Withrow, U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services-OIG
Director Mike Malone, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit
Investigative Supervisor Jason Fisher, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit
WHAT: Press Conference
WHEN: Wednesday, February 20, 2019 @ 10:30am
WHERE: U. S. Attorney’s Office
Robert C. Byrd U.S. Courthouse
300 Virginia Street, Room 400
Charleston, WV
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Mason County Woman Sentenced for Theft of Veterans BenefitsRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Mason County woman was sentenced today to three months federal incarceration to be followed by three years of supervised release, with the first six months of supervised release to be served at an in-patient substance abuse treatment center, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Brandi Moore, 39, of Gallipolis Ferry, previously pled guilty to an indictment on September 24, 2018 charging her with felony offense of theft of government benefits. She was also ordered to pay back $34,000 for her theft of government benefits. The investigation was the result of a joint effort by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“Sadly, stealing a deceased relative’s government benefits happens far too often,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “This is nothing short of theft of government benefits and the taxpayers money. We take these dishonest and dishonorable cases seriously and we prosecute every case to the fullest extent of the law. Stealing government benefits will land you in federal prison and will result in the loss of any federal benefits for the rest of your life.”
Moore admitted that she had a family member who was a United States military veteran. This veteran died on November 9, 2011. Moore did not report his death and the veterans benefits continued to accrue in the designated bank account. Moore knew she was not entitled to receive any of this money. From November 2011 through April 2013, Moore accessed the veteran’s bank account and began making cash withdraws on 191 separate occasions. Primarily, Ms. Moore used an ATM card to make the withdrawals, though she also admitted forging a name on at least one check constituting an endorsement. The total loss to the United States Treasury was $34,393. On April 4, 2017, Moore gave a detailed statement to federal investigators admitting she withdrew the money and was not entitled to do so.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Huntington Man Sentenced for Embezzling Veteran's BenefitsRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. -- A Huntington man was sentenced to 6 months imprisonment today for embezzling over $80,000 of his brother’s Veteran’s benefits, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. In addition to the 6 months imprisonment, Washington will spend 6 months on home confinement following his release. He was also order to make restitution. The case was investigated by the United States Department of Veteran’s Affairs Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“Despicable,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “It’s unimaginable to think that anyone, much less a patriot’s brother, would steal a veteran’s hard earned benefits. If you can’t trust your brother, who can you trust?”
David Washington, 55, was appointed his brother's fiduciary to receive and manage benefits from the Department of Veteran's Affairs. Washington failed to submit accounting reports, which led investigators to question his management. Washington later admitted to mismanagement, including spending his brother's benefits for his own personal expenses, most of which involved gambling debts.
United States District Court Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Former Assistant United States Attorney Gabe Wohl and Assistant United States Attorney R. Gregory McVey handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man pled guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Curtis Traylor, also known as “Gurt,” 51, entered a guilty plea to an indictment charging him with distribution of heroin.
“Family Dollar is a WV institution,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “You can get almost anything at the Family Dollar but you’re not supposed to be able to get heroin. A good business sullied by some bad guys.”
Traylor 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.
Traylor faces up to twenty years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 10, 2019.
The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor is handling the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Former Hospital Employee Sentenced for Embezzling Hospital FundsRead the Press Release
He stole over $46,000 in a little more than a month from Pleasant Valley Hospital
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Point Pleasant man was sentenced to three months in prison for embezzling more than $45,000 from the Pleasant Valley Hospital, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Kevin L. Durst, 62, was also ordered to pay restitution to the Hospital in the amount of $48,782.86. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Department of Homeland Security.
“They trusted him and, had they not caught him, he would still be stealing from them today, “ said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Hospitals like Pleasant Valley are under assault financially, let alone having to protect themselves from thieves like Durst. We all pay more for healthcare to make up for the losses when unscrupulous characters steal from the very hospitals that care for us. Any amount of loss can be devastating and health care providers and patients suffer as a result.”
Durst admitted as a financial analyst at Pleasant Valley Hospital, he had access to the Hospital’s online bank accounts and could initiate wire transfers on certain of those accounts. He further admitted that he secretly wrote checks to benefit himself and to his family’s private cemetery from a Hospital account that he knew was dormant and was not scrutinized by other Hospital officials. He also admitted that he transferred funds from the Hospital’s active accounts to the dormant account to ensure that there were abundant funds for his personal use. He further admitted that he initiated wire transfers to the Internal Revenue Service out of Hospital accounts to make federal tax payments for his family’s cemetery. He embezzled the funds between July 20, 2016, and August 22, 2016.
Assistant United States Attorneys Joe Adams and Meredith George Thomas were in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the sentencing hearing.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Project Parkersburg Update: Arizona Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – An Arizona man who was arrested as part of Project Parkersburg – a major takedown and dismantling of a multi-state drug trafficking organization (DTO) responsible for distributing methamphetamine and heroin -- pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Troy Pastorino, 39, entered his guilty plea before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger. 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 150 pounds of methamphetamine and 4 pounds of heroin.
“The people of Parkersburg deserve a city free of drug thugs and dealers. Pastorino is the first federal Project Parkersburg defendant to plead guilty,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “More than two dozen individuals were arrested on federal and state charges in October 2018 during the major takedown, dubbed “Project Parkersburg,” which dismantled a significant, multi-state DTO with connections to sources of supply in Mexico. There is no doubt lives have been saved as a result of our efforts.”
In September 2018, during a long-term investigation of a methamphetamine trafficking organization operating in Parkersburg, the FBI learned that a large shipment of methamphetamine was being shipped from the Phoenix, Arizona area to Parkersburg where it was to be sold in and around Wood County. On September 19, 2018, FBI and drug task force agents intercepted the shipment in Dayton, Ohio during a traffic stop of a Dodge Charger driven by Pastorino. Upon searching the trunk of the vehicle, agents seized approximately 150 pounds of methamphetamine and cocaine. During his plea hearing, Pastorino admitted that his role was to facilitate shipping the methamphetamine from Arizona.
Pastorino was charged with 16 other defendants in a two-count federal indictment in October 2018. He faces 10 years to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 12, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is responsible for the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###Kanawha County Man Sentenced for Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Kanawha County man caught with approximately 259 grams of methamphetamine in August 2017 was sentenced today to 144 months in prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Maurice Rashee Flint, 39, of Charleston, previously pled guilty plea to possession with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department’s STOP Team and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), along with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
“Twelve years. Twelve years in federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Meth dealers are rampant throughout West Virginia and we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to get dealers like Flint off our streets. I want to thank my prosecutors, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department’s STOP Team, MDENT and DEA for excellent work in this matter.”
At his plea hearing in October, 2018, Flint admitted that on August 25, 2017, members of the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department STOP Team and members of the Drug Enforcement Administration executed a search warrant at a motel he had been staying at in St. Albans, West Virginia. During the search, officers found approximately 259 grams of methamphetamine that Flint admitted he possessed with the intent to distribute. Flint also admitted that on four previous occasions between April 2017 and August 2017, he distributed quantities of heroin and methamphetamine to a confidential informant working with the local law enforcement agencies.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Former Substance Abuse Treatment Counselor Pleads Guilty to 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, pled guilty to illegal distribution of fentanyl. Stuart commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
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 addiction at CTC.
“Those with a substance use disorder need treatment and support,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “It is unconscionable and intolerable for anyone in a position to help those with substance use disorder to instead further feed their addiction.”
Reeves faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on May 15, 2019. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger is presiding over the case. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is handling 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.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Former Kanawha County Deputy Sheriff Sentenced for Lying to the FBIRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that former Kanawha County Deputy Sheriff Robert Dwight Evans, 52, of Boomer was sentenced today to three years of probation for lying to the FBI. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the FBI and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department.
“A trusted law enforcement officer aiding and abetting a drug trafficking organization. Tragic,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “No one is immune from the opioid epidemic. The brave men and women of law enforcement are on the front lines of this battle every single day. They are heroes on the front lines of this battle. Evan’s actions were reckless, dangerous, and risked the very lives of those he swore to protect.”
Evans pled guilty in October 2018, admitting that he lied to an FBI agent about buying opioid pain medication from a target of an FBI drug trafficking investigation. During the Spring and Summer of 2017, the FBI conducted an investigation of a large-scale drug trafficking organization operating in Kanawha and Fayette Counties. During that investigation, agents searched the telephone of one of the targets of investigation and recovered text messages between that dealer and Evans which revealed that Evans had been buying pills from that individual for several months. Agents also learned that Evans had run license plate numbers and Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) at the request of members and other associates of the organization.
On June 28, 2017, FBI agents confronted Evans at his residence and asked him about his involvement with the targets of the investigation. He admitted conducting license plate checks but denied buying pills from any member of the organization. The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department launched an internal investigation of Evans during which he resigned his position.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Former Justice of West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals Sentenced for FraudRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Allen H. Loughry II, 48, of Charleston, West Virginia, a former Justice of the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia, was sentenced to 24 months in prison by Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Loughry was also ordered to pay restitution totaling $1,273 to the State of West Virginia and the Pound Civil Justice Institute. After an eleven-day trial in October 2018, a federal jury found Loughry guilty of one count of mail fraud, seven counts of wire fraud, and two counts of lying to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Agents with the FBI and the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations conducted the investigation.
“Today is an important day. It is important for the people of West Virginia, in restoring the confidence of our citizens in the West Virginia Supreme Court, and in reaffirming the rule of law and the administration of justice,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Our system proved that it works. Arguably more important than any other part of the criminal justice system, sentencing is a reflection of our values as a society. The goals of sentencing are inherently contradictory and always involve a balancing of competing goals. These three goals are deterrence, denunciation, and rehabilitation. I want to thank my prosecution team, defense counsel and the jury for their tireless but critical roles in ensuring a just and fair result. I reiterate my amazing respect for the majesty of our system of justice – albeit imperfect it is the finest system known to mankind and the envy of the world. The preservation of liberty is best maintained through the confidence of the people in our system of fair and equal justice.”
Stuart continued, “I said it before and I will say it again, there’s no such thing as a little bit of public corruption. It is a cancer that erodes the public’s confidence in government and undermines the rule of law. Integrity and honesty need not be exceptions but, rather, should be the standard we expect from our public servants. To quote Mr. Loughry, as stated in his book: ‘It is essential that people have the absolute confidence in the integrity and impartiality of our system of justice.’ Today, with the sentence of Mr. Loughry, our system of justice took a big step in furthering the people’s confidence.”
"Public corruption is a betrayal of the public's sacred trust," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Jones. "There is no level of acceptable corruption. The FBI will work tirelessly to make sure those in power positions uphold the law and are held to the highest standards."
Loughry’s convictions resulted from fraudulent activity while he was a sitting Justice on the Supreme Court. The mail fraud conviction stemmed from his defrauding the Pound Civil Justice Institute of approximately $400 in the summer of 2014, when he claimed mileage to attend a conference in Baltimore, Maryland, as if he had driven his own personal vehicle when in fact he drove a Supreme Court vehicle. The seven wire fraud convictions related to Loughry’s using a government fuel card to buy gasoline for travel that was not official business. Two of those wire fraud convictions, Counts 5 and 10 of the Second Superseding Indictment, involved purchases of gasoline by Loughry late at night on a holiday or weekend, not long after he had already filled up the Supreme Court’s vehicle with gasoline upon returning from a trip. The remaining five convictions for wire fraud involved purchases of gasoline with a government fuel card and travel by Loughry in a Supreme Court vehicle to attend book-signing events at The Greenbrier Resort, for the book Loughry authored in 2006 about public corruption in West Virginia.
Loughry’s two convictions for lying to the FBI resulted from false answers he gave during an interview on March 2, 2018, by a Special Agent of the FBI. During that interview, Loughry claimed he never used a state vehicle for personal use and that he did not know that a desk he had in his home was a “Cass Gilbert desk” or even a desk anyone had ever claimed to be a Cass Gilbert desk.
AUSAs Philip H. Wright and R. Gregory McVey handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Clay County Woman Pleads Guilty to FEMA FraudRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Clay County woman pled guilty yesterday to embezzling over $18,000 in federal FEMA disaster benefits. The case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General (DHS-OIG) and the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations.
Pamela Taylor, 57, 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. In her plea agreement, Taylor agreed to pay restitution of $18,149.04.
“The flood was a natural disaster. Stealing from FEMA is a manmade disaster,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The floods of June 2016 were historic and devastating to thousands of West Virginians. Lives were lost. Too many of our brothers and sisters lost everything. FEMA dollars are critical but limited. Stealing critical FEMA dollars is a crime – literally and figuratively. Taylor’s fraud scheme diverted disaster benefits from our most desperate and vulnerable, those most in need of help. We take the solemn responsibility of ensuring FEMA dollars are used responsibly and legally. The public can rest assured that my office takes heinous acts like stealing from disaster relief funds very seriously and will prosecute each and every case brought to us to the maximum extent of the law.”
“Taking advantage of federal funds intended for disaster relief misappropriates taxpayer dollars, reduces monies available to true victims, and erodes public confidence in relief programs,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark Tasky of DHS-OIG. “In July 2016, after the good people of West Virginia were devastated by severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides the month prior, the Defendant knowingly submitted a fraudulent application for disaster relief, in order to enrich herself and divert critical funds away from true disaster victims. The DHS-OIG, operating jointly with our partners in the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia, worked tirelessly to bring the Defendant to justice for her crimes.”
Taylor faces up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000 when she is sentenced on May 30, 2019. United States District Court Judge the Honorable Irene C. Berger presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys Stefan Hasselblad and Meredith George Thomas handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Project Huntington Update: Saigon Sunset Defendant Sentenced to 97 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man was sentenced today to 97 months in federal prison for his role in a drug conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Willie Peterson, also known as “Chill,” 50, previously pled guilty to an indictment that charged him with conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and a quantity of fentanyl. The investigation was the result of a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
“The Peterson drug trafficking organization was a big time supplier of dangerous narcotics that was transported from Detroit to Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Not anymore -- Operation Saigon Sunset took the entire organization down.”
Peterson admitted that between July 2017 and April 2018 he conspired with individuals to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and quantities of fentanyl in Huntington, West Virginia. Peterson admitted that he distributed quantities of heroin to his brother, Manget Peterson, also known as “Money,” for him to distribute in Huntington, West Virginia in exchange for money. Individuals in Huntington would send Peterson drug proceeds in Detroit, Michigan from drug sales in Huntington, West Virginia. As part of his plea agreement, Peterson also admitted that in March 2018 he assisted David Miller, also known as “John,” in placing fentanyl and cocaine in a black box and attaching the box to Miller’s vehicle. Miller intended to transport the controlled substances to Huntington for distribution purposes. However, the Michigan State Police conducted a traffic stop on Miller and seized the controlled substances.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Kanawha County Man Pleads Guilty to Mail FraudRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Robert Casdorph entered a guilty plea to the felony offense of Mail Fraud, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Casdorph, 58, of Charleston, Kanawha County, West Virginia faces up to 20 years of incarceration when he is be sentenced on May 1, 2019. He will also be required to pay restitution to the law firm where he was previously employed. United States Attorney Mike Stuart praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“It’s hard enough to run a business without employees stealing from you,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “My office is committed to protecting the business community from fraudsters like Casdorph.”
Casdorph previously worked at a Charleston, West Virginia law firm and land company as both a runner and a driver. 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, taxes and credit card bills. Casdorph would then place the check in the mail. This scheme went on for several years, lasting through 2016. Casdorph also used law firm monies to renovate his home. Finally, Casdorph forged the name of a law firm member on three checks and gave it to a local builder to continue renovations on his home. The total financial loss to the law firm was at least $54,402. Casdorph is no longer employed by the law firm/land company.
Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
St. Albans Man Pleads Guilty to Theft of Social Security Income BenefitsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Joseph McLaughlin entered a guilty plea to the felony offense of fraudulently obtaining Social Security Administration benefits, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. McLaughlin, 38, of St. Albans, West Virginia faces up to 5 years of incarceration when he is sentenced on May 7, 2019. He will also be required to pay restitution to the United States Treasury. The investigation was conducted by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) and the Social Security Administration.
“Fraudsters that rip off social security get no sympathy from me,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Many seniors rely on social security and a strained system is only more strained when illegal benefits are wrongfully claimed. McLaughlin stole more than $121,000 in social security benefits. This is a terrible story of greed and entitlement and it just goes to prove that it only takes one bad apple to ruin an orchard.”
McLaughlin applied for Title II Social Security Administration benefits in 2007 for the care of a child as the child’s representative payee. These Social Security representative payee benefits are based on income and living arrangements and create a duty on the recipient to report a change in living arrangements. There is also a requirement that the SSA money received actually be used for the well-being of the child. McLaughlin indicated that the child resided with him and he used the SSA benefits for the child’s care. In fact, McLaughlin’s child had moved out in 2011 and was no longer residing with him. The absence of the child would have ended the amount of money he was receiving every month from the Social Security Administration as the child’s representative payee. From April 2011 through February 2017, McLaughlin received at least $121,436 in Social Security benefits in excess of the amount he was due and that were not spent on the child. On August 15, 2017, McLaughlin gave a detailed statement to federal investigators with the OIG. McLaughlin admitted that he was receiving money that he was not entitled to receive and that the child had moved out of the home in 2011.
Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes handled the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver Jr. presided over the hearing.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Doctor Enters into Civil Settlement to Pay Restitution and Damages to the WV Medicaid ProgramRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Dr. Manuel C. Barit, M.D., 71, of Raleigh County, and the only practicing physician at the Mullens Family Clinic, has entered into a civil settlement with his office to pay over $200,000, including full restitution and damages to the WV Medicaid Program. Earlier this week, Barit also entered a guilty plea to a healthcare fraud scheme. More information on Barit’s conviction in the criminal case can be found here.
“Healthcare fraud schemes defraud taxpayers causing healthcare costs to skyrocket. In this case, I am pleased to announce that $200,000 will be repaid in restitution for defrauding Medicaid and other healthcare benefit programs,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “As a result of our efforts, Dr. Barit is being held accountable and Medicaid and the taxpayers are being made whole.”
The West Virginia’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the United States Postal Inspection Service participated in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Matt Lindsay is responsible for the civil settlement.
“The Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources is proud to work jointly with the United States Attorney’s Office Southern District in combatting the opioid crisis,” said Jolynn Marra, Interim Inspector General. “Our partnership protects both the citizens and integrity of the Medicaid program in West Virginia.”
The Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, through DHHR’s Office of Inspector General, investigates and prosecutes or refers for prosecution allegations of health care fraud committed against the Medicaid program and allegations of the criminal abuse, neglect or financial exploitation of patients in Medicaid-funded facilities and residents in board and care facilities. Additionally, the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit is responsible for investigating fraud in the administration of the Medicaid program. Its mission is to protect West Virginia’s vulnerable citizens and the integrity of its health care programs.
To report Medicaid provider fraud or patient abuse, neglect or financial exploitation, call 304-558-1858 or 888-FRAUD-WV.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Multiple Project Safe Childhood (PSC) Defendants Appear in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that multiple Project Safe Childhood (PSC) defendants appeared in federal court this week.
“Project Safe Childhood cases are a significant priority for my office,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “These crimes are horrific and we will do everything within our power to protect children from the likes of the defendants that appeared in court this week. Crimes against children are epidemic in the nation today. The children of this district have no better champion than my office. We will continue to fight for them every single day and we will do all we can to protect our kids from the monsters that prey upon them.”
Douglas James Allmon, 51, of Canton, Ohio, pled guilty before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin to 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. Allman 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. 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.
Allmon faces at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 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.
Richard Gerald Caudill, Jr., 46, of Catlettsburg, Kentucky, pled guilty before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers to traveling in interstate commerce in order to engage in illicit sexual activity with a minor. Caudill admitted that during August 2018 he communicated via the cell phone messaging app Kik with a minor he believed to be a 14-year-old girl from the Ashland, Kentucky area. During the conversations, Caudill attempted to persuade and entice the minor to meet him in order to engage in sexual intercourse. On August 28, 2018, Caudill traveled from his home in Kentucky to a location in Kenova, Wayne County, West Virginia, in order to have sex with the minor. Only then did Caudill discover that the minor was actually an undercover law enforcement officer. The investigation was conducted by the West Virginia State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the FBI Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Ashland Police Department.
Caudill faces up to 30 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 20, 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.
David Wayne Young, 48, of Ashland, Kentucky was sentenced by United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. to 188 months in federal prison, followed by 25 years on supervised release for a sex trafficking crime. He also will be required to register as a sex offender. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the FBI Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Ashland Police Department, and the Boyd County Sheriff’s Department.
Young previously admitted that in March 2017, he communicated with his codefendant, Misty Dawn Baisden, and asked Baisden to provide him with a minor under the age of 14 for the purpose of engaging in commercial sexual activity. Young additionally admitted that the communication involved discussion of exchanging money, items, or other things of value for sexually explicit photographs of the minor. He further admitted that subsequent communications with Baisden included discussions that involved Young offering to provide Baisden with a minor for sexual activity in exchange for her providing him with a minor for sexual activity. Baisden previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of a minor and was sentenced to 72 months in prison.
Nathan Kelley, 22, of Vienna, West Virginia, was sentenced by United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. to six years in federal prison, followed by 25 years of supervised release, for child pornography crimes. He will also be required to register as a sex offender. Kelley previously entered his guilty plea to one count of distribution or attempted distribution of child pornography, and one count of possessing child pornography. Stuart commended the investigative work of the Parkersburg Police Department and the West Virginia State Police.
Kelley admitted to using his phone to send images depicting child pornography through Twitter to another person on November 18, 2017, at his residence in Wood County. He also admitted to possessing about 220 images and one video depicting child pornography on December 27, 2017, also at his residence in Wood County. He indicated that he acquired all of the images and the video from the Internet and stored them on his phone in an app called Keepsafe. Many of the images involved prepubescent children being subjected to sexually explicit conduct. The Court also found that on at least two prior occasions Kelley had sexually abused a toddler by touching her bare genitals for his own sexual gratification.
Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is in charge of the prosecutions.
These cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Former Office Manager Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement Scheme and Related Tax FelonyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Roseanna Coomes, 67, of Bluefield, West Virginia, 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 Investigation and the Bluefield Police Department conducted the investigation.
“You reap what you sow,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “More than 10 years of scheming and the theft of almost $1 million. Being in business is difficult enough without an employee stealing from the company. I want to thank IRS-Criminal Investigations and the Bluefield Police Department for excellent work in this case.”
As part of the plea, 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.
Coomes faces up to 23 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000 when she is sentenced on June 18, 2019. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber is presiding over the case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timm Boggess and Meredith George Thomas are handling the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Boone County Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Boone County woman entered a guilty plea to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Karen Kay Runion, 33, of Racine, pled guilty to distribution of heroin. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the U.S. 119 Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.
“This defendant has a sad history,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Drug dealers are vipers feeding on the very fiber of our people and communities. We have a sense of urgency to relocate every dealer from our streets to a federal pen.”
In November of 2017, Runion sold heroin in Racine, West Virginia, including to a cooperating individual with the U.S. 119 Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. Runion admitted during her plea hearing that she had been distributing heroin for several years. Runion was previously convicted in 2013 in Boone County, West Virginia for the felony offense of Exposure of Children to Methamphetamine Manufacturing.
Runion faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on April 30, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner handled the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the plea hearing..
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Mullens Family Clinic Doctor Pleads Guilty to Healthcare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Dr. Manuel C. Barit, M.D., 71, of Raleigh County, and the only practicing physician at Mullens Family Clinic, pled guilty to executing a long-running healthcare fraud scheme. As part of the plea, Dr. Barit admitted that from about October 7, 2013 through January 24, 2018, he defrauded Medicare and Medicaid by submitting claims indicating that he treated patients at his clinic in Mullens on dates when he was outside the United States. As part of the plea, Dr. Barit agreed permanently surrender his West Virginia medical license as well as his Drug Enforcement Administration registration. By virtue of surrendering his license and registration, Dr. Barit will no longer be permitted to practice medicine or prescribe controlled substances in West Virginia. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation.
“This is a significant case for a number of reasons,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Dr. Barit has surrendered his medical license and his DEA registration. As a result, Dr. Barit will never practice medicine and will never write a prescription in West Virginia ever again. The pill pushers and drug dealers in lab coats have wreaked havoc and harm on our good citizens and we shall continue doing everything in our power to hold those responsible accountable.”
Dr. Barit faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 when he is sentenced on May 16, 2019. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger is presiding over the case.
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.
Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is handling the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Kanawha County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- A Kanawha County man pled guilty to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Douglas Matthew Spry, 42, entered his guilty plea to possession with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine. The investigation was conducted by the Nitro Police Department, with assistance from the United States Department of Homeland Security.
“Digital scales, a large amount of United States currency, and 70.41 grams of methamphetamine in the glove box,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Methamphetamine is wreaking havoc on the good people of West Virginia. Drug dealers bring pain to their victims and great harm to our communities.”
Spry admitted that on December 10, 2017, his vehicle was the subject of a traffic stop near Nitro, West Virginia. 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. During the traffic stop, Spry denied knowledge of the methamphetamine but informed the officer that his fingerprints would likely be on the bag. At the plea hearing, Spry admitted that he intended to sell the methamphetamine.
Spry faces up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced in June 2019. United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders is handling the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###Former High School Counselor Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. -- Mellissa Krystynak, 49, of St. Lucie, Florida, pled guilty to a mail fraud scheme she executed while employed as a counselor at Greenbrier West High School, in Charmco, Greenbrier County, West Virginia. The investigation was conducted by the Office of Inspector General, United States Department of Education.
“This takes cheating to a whole new level,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We expect to find students cheating. We don’t expect a parent abusing a position of authority to inflate her daughter’s grades and, adding even more harm, to use those fake grades to obtain federal benefits and, potentially, keep a deserving student from a legitimate opportunity. I think it’s fair to say that Krystynak might not be the best role model to emulate. Very, very sad.”
Krystynak, was a school counselor at Greenbrier West from 2011 until 2017. While she was employed there, two of her children attended the school. Krystynak used her position as a counselor to gain access to the school’s computerized grading programs to inflate at least thirty-four of her daughter’s grades. Her daughter then used the inflated grades to apply for and receive over ten different college scholarships with a potential benefit of over $20,000. These scholarships were based on applications containing the fraudulent report cards and transcripts.
Krystynak facts up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine and 3 years of supervised release when she is sentenced on May 16, 2019. United States District Judge Irene Berger presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Steve Loew is handling the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that a Charleston man entered a guilty plea to four counts of distributing methamphetamine. Charles Washington-Robinson, 34, 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.
Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the Special Enforcement Unit of the Charleston Police Department.
Washington-Robinson faces up to 20 years in prison on each of the four counts he pled guilty to when he is sentenced on June 19, 2019.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matt Davis. United States District Judge David Faber presided over the plea hearing.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man pled guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Ralph Wray, 36, entered a guilty plea to an indictment charging him with possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
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.
Wray faces up to twenty years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 20, 2019.
The Huntington Police 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.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Project Huntington Update: Huntington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Gun ConvictionsRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man who was arrested as part of Project Huntington who previously pled guilty to drug and gun charges was sentenced today to 72 months and 1 day in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Eric Lee Burgess, 34, previously entered guilty pleas to distribution of heroin, prohibited possession of a firearm by a drug user, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Huntington Police Department.
“Burgess was one of many gun-toting drug dealers arrested in Huntington as part of Project Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again – Huntington is no doubt a safer city today because of our collaborative efforts.”
On October 7, 2014, a confidential informant and an undercover ATF agent met with Burgess at Burgess’s residence located at 306 9th Street West in Huntington to purchase heroin. After negotiating the transaction, Burgess distributed approximately 5 grams of heroin to the agent in exchange for $875. Burgess was also observed using heroin and admitted that he possessed a .40 caliber pistol during the transaction. On December 16, 2014, the undercover agent again met with Burgess at his residence. On this occasion, the agent again observed Burgess using heroin and Burgess sold the agent an AR-15 style rifle along with a 30-round magazine.
On April 17, 2018, investigators arrested Burgess at his residence as part of Project Huntington. Investigators conducted a search of Burgess’s residence and seized a number of items including heroin, digital scales, and three firearms with assorted ammunition. Burgess admitted that he intended to distribute the heroin that was seized and that he possessed the firearms to serve as protection during heroin transactions.
Burgess also admitted to meeting with the informant and undercover agent on six additional occasions. On these occasions, Burgess admitted that he sold the informant and agent oxycodone pills, heroin, and four additional firearms. Burgess also admitted that he possessed other firearms during some of the transactions and that he was prohibited from possessing firearms based on his drug usage.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.
This prosecution is part of Project Huntington, an effort announced by United States Attorney Mike Stuart in March 2018 in response to the opiate epidemic and violent crime in southern West Virginia.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Project Huntington Update: Final Operation Saigon Sunset Defendant Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Nyanzangusa Baldwin, also known as “Botch,” 45, from Michigan, pled guilty to a federal drug conspiracy charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Baldwin, who was caught with heroin in August 2017, entered his guilty plea to an indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute heroin. Operation Saigon Sunset was a joint investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
“Baldwin is the last of the 15 defendants indicted as a result of Operation Saigon Sunset to plead guilty,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I want to commend the team involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case. An exemplary job was done by all involved. The conviction of the 15 defendants indicted in this case dismantled a significant drug trafficking network and substantially advanced our efforts to takeback the streets of Huntington.”
Baldwin admitted Manget Peterson asked him to come to Huntington in August 2017 to distribute heroin. He admitted that he distributed heroin from the Ramada Inn Motel in Huntington, West Virginia in August 2017. Officers executed a search warrant on the motel room and seized approximately 35 grams of heroin.
Baldwin faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 20, 2019.
The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Princeton Man Sentenced for Federal Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that a Princeton man was sentenced to 108 months in prison for federal drug crimes. Jerome Jones, 54, previously pled guilty to seven counts of distribution of a quantity of cocaine base, two counts of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base, and one count of distribution of cocaine. The case was investigated by the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and the West Virginia State Police.
“Nine years. Nine years,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Attacking the drug epidemic is one of our top priorities and Jones now gets to spend much of the rest of his productive life behind bars. My office has been incredibly effective putting drug dealers and drug thugs behind bars and we won’t stop until they stop.”
Jones admitted that between May 18, 2016, and November 13, 2017, he sold quantities of cocaine and cocaine base to a confidential informant who was working with police. He further admitted that law enforcement authorities served search warrants at his residence on June 1, 2016, and on December 20, 2017, and seized quantities of cocaine and cocaine base.
Assistant United States Attorney John File handled the prosecution. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
New York Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A New York man who illegally possessed firearms in Cross Lanes in 2017 was sentenced today to 41 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Andre Durrell Watson, 33, previously pled guilty to prohibited possession of a firearm by a felon. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
In May and June of 2017, Watson was living at 5035 St. Patrick Circle in Cross Lanes. Agents executed a search warrant at the residence on June 1, 2017, and recovered four firearms along with a large quantity of ammunition. Watson admitted during his plea hearing that he possessed the firearms, a .40 caliber pistol, a 9mm pistol, and two 5.56mm AR-15 style rifles. Watson also admitted that the .40 caliber pistol was previously stolen. Watson was convicted in 2005 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania of the felony offense of burglary and was prohibited from possessing firearms by virtue of his conviction.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.
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.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Huntington Man Sentenced for Federal Meth and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man who previously pled guilty to drug and gun charges was sentenced today to 131 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jonathan Forest Johnson, 31, entered guilty pleas to distribution of methamphetamine and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in October 2018 in federal court in Huntington. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department.
“Almost 11 years in prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Yet another gun-toting drug dealer taken off the streets of Huntington.”
On January 29, 2018, a confidential informant contacted Johnson to arrange the purchase of methamphetamine. After negotiating the transaction, Johnson directed the informant to meet him in the parking lot of a department store located in the 3000 block of U.S. Route 60 in Huntington. The informant met with Johnson at that location and Johnson sold the informant 15 grams of crystal methamphetamine in exchange for $330.
On February 2, 2018, investigators executed a search warrant at Johnson’s residence located at 3405 5th Avenue in Huntington. During the search, investigators seized a number of items including 17 grams of heroin, 4.5 grams of meth, two 9mm pistols, a .40 caliber pistol, a .22 caliber rifle, a 12 gauge shotgun, and a 16 gauge shotgun. Johnson was arrested during the search and Johnson admitted that he intended to sell the heroin and meth found in his residence. Johnson further admitted that he possessed the firearms to serve as protection based on his involvement in distributing heroin and meth.
Johnson also admitted to selling an additional 15 grams of meth to an informant on January 31, 2018, and that he was prohibited from possessing the firearms seized based on multiple prior felony convictions in the Cabell County Circuit Court for First Degree Robbery and Malicious Wounding. Johnson also admitted that he had been selling heroin and meth for the two-month period prior to the February 2 search of his residence.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Project Huntington Update: Operation Saigon Sunset Defendant Sentenced to 108 Months in Prison for His Role in Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – An Operation Saigon Sunset defendant was sentenced today to 108 months in prison for his role in a federal drug conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Manget Peterson, also known as “Money,” 45, of Detroit, previously pled guilty to an indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and a quantity of fentanyl. The investigation was the result of a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
“Significant drug dealer. Significant sentence for his crimes,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Manget Peterson peddled poisons and wreaked havoc in the City of Huntington for far too long. Our objective in implementing Project Huntington was to make the city safer by ridding city streets of dangerous drug dealers and holding them accountable. Huntington is no doubt safer today as a result of our efforts.”
Peterson admitted that between August 2017 and April 2018 he conspired with individuals to distribute heroin and fentanyl in Huntington, West Virginia. Peterson admitted that he obtained heroin from Willie Peterson, also known as “Chill,” in Detroit, Michigan to sell in Huntington and would send drug proceeds to Willie Peterson. Peterson also admitted that between September 2017 and April 2018 he supplied Lonnie Berry, II with heroin to sell in exchange for money
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Multiple Removed Aliens Plead Guilty to Immigration CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – In three separate cases, two Mexican Nationals and a Guatamalan National entered guilty pleas to the felony offense of Reentry of a Removed Alien, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“Multiple defendants. Multiple prior deportations. Repeat offenders. These are three of many, many similar cases that this district has prosecuted in the past few months,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We seek to prosecute every reentry case involving someone who is here illegally, repeatedly, against the laws of the United States. The number of these cases is growing in this district. This is an area of real concern to ensure the safety of the citizens.”
Mexican National Sebastian Gonzalez-Cid, 26, is scheduled to be sentenced on February 26, 2019, and is also subject to deportation proceedings. On December 6, 2018, Gonzalez-Cid was found in a Huntington, West Virginia apartment complex by members of ICE after receiving a tip that a person was in the country illegally and living in Huntington. Agents approached Gonzalez-Cid, who confirmed his name, offered a Mexican identification, and admitted he was not in the United States legally. Agents immediately confirmed that Gonzalez-Cid was not in the United States legally, and took him into federal custody. Gonzalez-Cid’s fingerprints matched him to a 2017 prior encounter in South Charleston, West Virginia where he was found in West Virginia and deported from the United States. Gonzalez-Cid reentered the United States without obtaining legal permission to do so.
Guatamalan National Marcus Tojin Tiu, 25, is scheduled to be sentenced on February 26, 2019. Tojin Tiu is also subject to deportation proceedings. On October 30, 2019, Tojin Tiu was found in Barboursville, West Virginia by members of ICE after receiving a tip that a person was in the country illegally and working at a restaurant in Barboursville, West Virginia. Agents approached Tojin Tiu, who immediately admitted he was not in the United States legally and offered them a Guatemalan identification. Agents promptly confirmed that Tojin Tiu was not in the United States legally, and took him into federal custody. Tojin Tiu’s fingerprints matched him to a 2012 prior encounter in Harlingen, Texas where he was found in Texas and deported from the United States. Tojin Tiu reentered the United States without obtaining legal permission to do so. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is responsible for the prosecutions. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearings.
Gilberto Espino-Velasquez, 41, faces up to two years of in prison when he is sentenced on March 7, 2019. Espino-Velasquez is also subject to deportation proceedings at the conclusion of any sentence. On November 8, 2018, Espino-Velasquez was found in Nitro, Kanawha County, West Virginia by members of ICE after receiving a tip that individuals were in the country illegally and working on a construction crew in the area. Pursuant to this investigation, ICE agents approached Espino-Velasquez and he surrendered to them. Agents immediately confirmed that Espino-Velasquez was not in the United States legally, and took him into federal custody. Espino-Velasquez’s fingerprints matched him to three prior encounters in 2003 where he was found in the United States illegally and deported from the United States to Mexico. He was also previously convicted of illegally entering the United States in September 8, 2003 in the Western District of Texas. Espino-Velasquez again illegally reentered the United States prior to his capture in 2018. Espino-Velasquez had not obtained permission to legally enter the United States and had not sought legal status or citizenship. Espino-Velasquez also admitted to ICE agents that he was a Mexican citizen. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is handling the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver Jr. presided over the hearing.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews and USAttyStuart
###
Hanover Man Sentenced for Dumping Sewage into West Virginia StreamRead the Press Release
Defendant received 15 months of incarceration for dumping truckloads of sewage into Little Huff Creek in Wyoming County
BECKLEY, W.Va. -- Mike Blankenship, 54, of Hanover, West Virginia, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for Clean Water Act violations, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. A federal jury convicted Blankenship of two felony Clean Water Act violations in April 2018. United States Attorney Mike Stuart praised the work of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP), who were also assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the West Virginia State Police.
“No one wants crap in their creek but that’s exactly what they got in this case,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Clean water and public sewage - especially in West Virginia- is still much too hard to come by in some of our more rural communities. Blankenship operated his business with total disregard of environmental laws putting raw sewage in the very water sources our good people depend on.”
On September 29, 2015, a sewage truck owned by Blankenship was seen dumping untreated sewage into Little Huff Creek, a tributary of the Guyandotte River in Southwestern West Virginia. Inspectors with the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP) responded to the truck’s location in Hanover, West Virginia. They saw the sewage truck with a hose placed in the creek, observed sewage in the water and on the ground, and quickly requested the assistance of the West Virginia State Police. Returning to the truck, WVDEP agents were able to take samples from the truck and pad. Lab tests confirmed the presence of fecal coliform, an indicator of raw or untreated sewage. Later, agents with the FBI, EPA, and WVDEP spoke to Mike Blankenship. Blankenship owns a porta-john and sewage business under the name Hanover Contracting Company. Blankenship admitted that it was his sewage truck dumping sewage into the water on the day the WVDEP inspectors observed it. Blankenship also admitted to dumping sewage into Little Huff Creek on other occasions. Neighbors provided photographic evidence that they testified showed Blankenship’s trucks dumping sewage and porta-john waste into the creek on various dates in 2015 and 2016. The April 2018 federal jury also heard testimony from the law enforcement agents and experts in water quality assessment.
Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes and Special Assistant United States Attorney Perry McDaniel represented the United States at sentencing and during the jury trial. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Former Federal Prison Official Sentenced for Sex OffensesRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Jarrod Grimes, 40, of Inverness, Florida, a former Federal Bureau of Prisons official, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for unlawfully engaging in sexual activity with female inmates at the Federal Prison Camp at Alderson. Grimes will also be required to register as a sex offender. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, the Office of Inspector General of the United States Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“The Bureau of Prisons is staffed with correctional officers that perform their duties with honor and integrity every day. However, Grimes, who abused his position and power, was not one of them,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Grimes was in a position of trust and near absolute authority over inmates who had absolutely no ability to flee or escape. Any and all instances of gross and egregious corruption like this will be prosecuted by my office and we will seek the maximum penalties permitted by law.”
Grimes pled guilty in June to four counts of sexual abuse of a ward and two counts of abusive sexual contact involving a ward. He admitted to having sexual intercourse with four inmates and other sexual activity with two other inmates between about November 2016 and December 2017. Grimes was a captain when the crimes occurred, and was in charge of the correctional and security functions at the prison. Under federal law, the inmates were not legally capable of giving consent to engage in any sexual activity with Grimes. Grimes resigned from the Federal Bureau of Prisons in December 2017.
“This man used his position as a Captain with the Bureau of Prisons to take advantage of women,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Jones. “Corrections officers have a duty to protect the inmates at the prisons where they work. This sentence reaffirms our commitment to hold anyone who abuses their power responsible and that corruption, no matter where it is, will not be tolerated.”
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence on January 9, 2019. Assistant United States Attorney John File handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
HOPE Clinic Physician Sentenced for Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. -- United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that a HOPE Clinic physician, Dr. John Pellegrini, D.O., 64, of Huntington, West Virginia, was sentenced to 87 months imprisonment for conspiracy to launder money. Pellegrini was also ordered to forfeit $574,507 to the United States, as that amount represents the proceeds of his offense. Stuart praised the investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General, the United States Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police, the Kentucky State Police, the Virginia State Police, the Beckley Police Department, the Charleston Police Department, Appalachia HIDTA, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
“Although we have significantly curtailed our issuance of press releases and media information during the partial government shutdown, this is a significant result in a significant case that is significant to the people of West Virginia and public safety,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Let this be a lesson to medical professionals who place greed over patient care. Pellegrini is the third defendant to be sentenced in conjunction with HOPE Clinic and we have much work left to do. My office is committed to doing everything within our power to turn the tide on the opioid epidemic including prosecuting medical professionals who fail to heed their first and most important oath, ‘Do no harm.’”
John Pellegrini admitted that he worked as a physician at the HOPE Clinic in Beckley, West Virginia. As a physician, he was authorized to write prescriptions for controlled substances for legitimate medical purposes in the usual course of professional practice. Pellegrini was a contract physician employed by a third-party contracting agency and not by HOPE Clinic. Although HOPE Clinic held itself out as specializing in the treatment of chronic pain through opioids, both the owners of HOPE Clinic and its management company, PPPFD, knew that Pellegrini had no experience in the treatment of chronic pain patients. Pellegrini previously pled guilty and admitted that many of the prescriptions he wrote for HOPE Clinic customers were illegal, because they were written outside the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. In return for these illegal prescriptions, the HOPE Clinic and PPPFD received payments from the customers. Even though Pellegrini was a contractor, he received bonuses for his work at the HOPE Clinic from the customer payments. Pellegrini’s bonuses, as determined by the HOPE Clinic and PPPFD owners, were based upon the number of customers visiting the clinic each month. Thus, Pellegrini admitted that the more customers that returned to the HOPE Clinic each month, the more money he made through his bonus regardless of whether he physically examined the customer, just met with the customer, or just wrote a prescription for the customer. Pellegrini admitted that the bonus he received encouraged and promoted him to write more illegal prescriptions for highly addictive controlled substances, without a legitimate medical purpose and outside the usual course of professional practice, because the bonuses increased as the number of customers visiting the HOPE Clinic increased.
United States District Court Judge Irene Berger imposed the sentence. In imposing the sentence, the Court noted that while working at HOPE Clinic, Pellegrini disregarded his oath as a physician, as well as the law, and prescribed highly addictive controlled substances to patients with little regard to the medical necessity. The Court further noted that Pellegrini wrote prescriptions to patients he did not even examine and that he abused his position as a physician.
Assistant United States Attorneys Monica D. Coleman handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Two Men Sentenced for Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two men were sentenced by Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber for illegally possessing firearms, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
“We are prosecuting prohibited persons for illegally possessing firearms in every corner of the District,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And the number of firearms cases we have prosecuted this year is off the charts.”
Reed Ryan Quick, 47, of White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia was sentenced to 46 months in prison. The investigation was conducted by the Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Quick previously pled guilty to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm, admitting that on January 20, 2018, he possessed a Ruger 9mm pistol while attempting to purchase drugs in Charleston. Quick is prohibited from possessing any firearms due to a 2015 Greenbrier County felony conviction for operating a clandestine methamphetamine lab.
In addition, a Wood County felon was sentenced to 48 months in prison for illegally possessing two firearms. Scott Phillips, 33, of Parkersburg, previously pled guilty to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. The case was investigated by the Parkersburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On February 3, 2017, officers with the Parkersburg Police Department stopped a vehicle Phillips was riding in. Phillips fled the vehicle on foot and unsuccessfully attempted to hide two pistols as police pursued him. Phillips is prohibited from possessing any firearms due to a 2006 Wood County felony burglary conviction.
Assistant United States Attorney Matt Davis handled the prosecutions.
The cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. 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.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
South Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A South Charleston man pled guilty to distribution of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute over 50 grams of pure methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jason Haddox, 35, entered his guilty plea before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger on December 19, 2018. Police investigators believe that Haddox and his girlfriend, co-defendant Mary Haynes, were prominent ice methamphetamine traffickers, distributing at least 20 ounces of methamphetamine per month throughout the Kanawha Valley. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the Nitro Police Department, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department, and the South Charleston Police Department.
“A tremendous amount of meth is being distributed throughout the Kanawha Valley,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Area law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to identify meth dealers and my team is committed to prosecuting the peddlers of this poison.”
On April 4, 2017, police investigators used a confidential informant to purchase a quarter ounce of methamphetamine from Haynes in South Charleston. Haddox supplied Haynes with the methamphetamine. Investigators then executed a search warrant on Haddox’s South Charleston residence on April 7, 2017, where they recovered over two ounces of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and thousands of dollars of drug trafficking proceeds.
Haddox will be sentenced on April 3, 2019. He faces a mandatory minimum of ten years in prison and up to life imprisonment. Assistant United States Attorney Drew Inman is handling the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Parkersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Nicholas Easton, 29, entered his guilty plea before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the FBI, the Parkersburg Police Department, and the Parkersburg Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force.
“This investigation dismantled a significant drug trafficking organization that was bringing meth into Parkersburg area,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We are working with our counterparts in other states to shut these multi-state drug networks down.”
On September 20, 2018, Easton was arrested at his Pettyville Road residence following a long-term investigation of a methamphetamine trafficking organization operating in and around Parkersburg, as well as Dayton, Ohio, Tampa, Florida, and Phoenix, Arizona. Easton admitted distributing between 50 and 200 grams of methamphetamine in Parkersburg between February and September 2018.
Easton faces a mandatory minimum of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 3, 2019. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is responsible for the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Family Members Sentenced for Roles in Arson and Insurance Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Georgetta Lester Kenny and Greg Lester, two members of a Southern West Virginia family, were sentenced to prison by Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. After a five day trial earlier this year, a federal jury found them guilty of various charges related to an arson and insurance fraud scheme. Georgetta Lester Kenney, formerly known as Georgetta Lester, age 42, was sentenced to 36 months in prison and was ordered to pay $578,147 in restitution and forfeit $184,623. Greg Lester, age 41, was sentenced to 60 months in prison and was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $578,147 and forfeit $11,965. Agents with the West Virginia Insurance Commission, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation.
“Arson and insurance fraud are serious crimes that impact all of us, particularly through increased insurance premiums,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The ordering of restitution and forfeiture in cases like this one is every bit as important as the prison sentences imposed. Criminals should not be able to keep profits obtained through their fraudulent schemes.”
Between April of 2012 and January of 2016, the defendants, along with Windel Lester, James “Punkin” Lester, and others, participated in various ways in three separate but inter-related schemes involving arson, mail fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. Their overall purpose was to enrich themselves by fraudulently obtaining insurance proceeds on houses they intentionally burned. The houses were insured for amounts greatly exceeding their value and the value of any contents. The houses were located at Matoaka in Mercer County, Huntington in Cabell County, and Ikes Fork in Wyoming County.
Windel Lester was found guilty of 17 felony charges and faces 340 years imprisonment. James “Punkin” Lester was found guilty of 23 felony charges and faces 475 years imprisonment. They are scheduled to be sentenced on January 20, 2019.
Others involved included Dudley Bledsoe, Ricky Gleason, and James Browning, all of whom pled guilty and have been sentenced.
Assistant United States Attorneys Philip H. Wright and R. Gregory McVey handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Charleston Man Sentenced for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- A Charleston man was sentenced for a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Fabian Woodson, 36, was sentenced to 51 months in prison for possessing with intent to distribute heroin on January 4, 2016.
“Fentanyl laced heroin and an arsenal of firearms,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “With Woodson off the streets, the Kanawha Valley is a safer place.”
On September 2, 2015, members of the Metro Drug Unit initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in which Woodson was a passenger in South Charleston, West Virginia. When the vehicle stopped, Woodson exited the vehicle and attempted to flee from the officers on foot. The officers apprehended him and recovered approximately 20 grams of heroin from the vehicle that Woodson admitted he possessed while in the vehicle. Woodson also admitted that he sold a confidential informant working for the Metro Drug Unit .8 grams of heroin in exchange for $150 on both December 14 and December 17, 2015.
On January 4, 2016, detectives with the Metro Drug Unit executed a search warrant on a home in Elkview where Woodson was residing and found suspected heroin, that Woodson admitted he intended to sell, suspected crack, and marijuana. They also found a loaded Ruger .380 caliber handgun, a loaded Colt .25 caliber handgun, a loaded Glock .26 caliber handgun, a loaded .22 caliber Beretta, and $7,613 in United States Currency, which included $150 of buy money from a previous controlled drug buy conducted by members of the Metro Drug Unit. The drugs seized from Woodson on January 4, 2016, were submitted to the West Virginia State Police Lab for testing, and confirmed to be heroin containing fentanyl weighing 27.58 grams, 3.268 grams of cocaine base, and 398 grams of marijuana.
United States District Court Judge John T. Copenhaver Jr. imposed the sentence.
The Metro Drug Unit was in charge of the investigation. Monica D. Coleman is handling the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pled guilty to a federal firearms charge, said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Michael D. Williams, 49, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Williams was on supervised release for a prior federal conviction for conspiracy to commit arson. The investigation was conducted by the Charleston Police Department, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
“Defendants like Williams increase the recidivism rate,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And these are the types of crimes, committed by violent, repeat offenders that are the focus of our Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative.”
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 faces up to 10 years in prison on the felon in possession charge and an additional 24 months in prison for the supervised released violation when he is sentenced on March 14, 2019.
United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Steve Loew 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.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Roane County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Roane County man was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for a child pornography crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Devin Wolfe, 26, of Spencer, previously entered his guilty plea in July 2018 to one count of receipt of child pornography. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police and the Parkersburg Police Department.
“Great work by all involved,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart, “in putting another child predator behind bars. Project Safe Childhood is a top priority of mine that focuses on protecting our most vulnerable and holding those accountable that prey on our children.”
Wolfe admitted to possessing images and videos depicting child pornography on October 12, 2016. He received these images and videos from the internet, including from the website “4chan.” One of the images, which he downloaded on August 21, 2016 at his residence in Roane County, depicted an adult male engaged in sexual intercourse with a prepubescent female. Wolfe further admitted to possessing at least 6 videos and 730 images. Many of the minors depicted in the videos and images have been identified by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Following his release from prison, defendant will spend 35 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 and First Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston handled the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. 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.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Princeton Couple Pleads Guilty to Federal Robbery and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Princeton couple who were arrested after an investigation of multiple robberies earlier this year pled guilty to multiple federal charges, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Sarah K. Bailey, 39, and Michael Justin Bailey, 38, entered guilty pleas to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robberies and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, with the assistance and cooperation of law enforcement personnel in the states of Virginia and North Carolina.
“The couple that thieves together, stays together -- in a federal pen. But they won’t be staying together,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Good job by law enforcement in solving this string of violent robberies and apprehending the Baileys.”
During their plea hearings, each defendant admitted to robbing two separate video poker parlors in the Southern District of West Virginia. The Baileys admitted that on October 26, 2017, they robbed a video poker parlor near Peterstown, West Virginia. The Baileys further admitted that during the robbery, a 76 year old employee was struck several times in the head with a club, causing injury to the employee. They admitted to then binding the employee with duct tape, and stealing money and personal items from this employee.
The Baileys also admitted to committing another robbery as part of the conspiracy. This robbery occurred near Bluefield, West Virginia on November 5, 2017. On November 5, the Baileys went to a video poker parlor where Sarah Bailey had previously worked near Bluefield. On this date, they used firearms that had previously been stolen to rob the video poker parlor. During the robbery, the Baileys admitted to threatening an employee and customers with the firearms and again binding an employee with duct tape. They further admitted to stealing nearly $5,000 and personal items and effects from the employee and customers. The Baileys then fled to North Carolina where they were arrested after being found in possession of the money and other stolen items from both of the robbery locations.
Both defendants face up to 20 years imprisonment for the conspiracy charge to be followed by a mandatory minimum consecutive term of not less than seven years and up to life in federal prison when they are sentenced on April 2, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is handling the prosecutions. The plea hearings were held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
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.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Two Plead Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that two men pled guilty to drug charges in federal court in Bluefield. James Kelsor, 46, of Northfork, pled guilty to distribution of cocaine, admitting that on September 30, 2016, he distributed one-half gram of cocaine to an informant in Bluefield. He also admitted that he distributed cocaine to an informant in Bluefield on October 3 and October 5, 2016. He faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on April 2, 2019. The case was investigated by the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.
Benjamin Allen III, 31, of Princeton, pled guilty to distributing hydromorphone. Allen admitted that on January 10, 2017, he distributed a hydromorphone pill to an informant in Princeton. He also admitted that he distributed hydromorphone pills on two other occasions in Princeton in January of 2017 and once in Bluefield in March of 2017, and that he possessed hydrocodone and hydromorphone pills with the intent to distribute them on March 28, 2017, at his residence in Princeton. Allen faces up to 210 months in prison when he is sentenced on April 2, 2019. The case was investigated by the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, the Bluefield Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
“Substance use disorder plagues every county in our state,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “But in our southernmost counties that have been particularly ravaged by the drug epidemic, we are working with our law enforcement partners to prosecute peddlers of all poisons.”
Assistant United State Attorney John File is handling the prosecution of both cases. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the plea hearings.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Kentucky Man Sentenced to Prison for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Kentucky man who robbed over $32,000 from a bank in Wayne County was sentenced to 63 months in prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Steve Ray Meeks, 62, of Louisa, Kentucky, previously pled guilty to bank robbery. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the FBI, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, the Louisa, Kentucky, Police Department, the Kentucky State Police, and the West Virginia State Police.
“Meeks’ actions put so many lives in danger,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “My thanks to all of the law enforcement officers who worked together to apprehend Meeks without further incident.”
Meeks admitted that on January 12, 2018, he robbed the Community Trust Bank in Fort Gay. The day before, Meeks admitted that he had approached the bank with his hood over his head and a ski mask covering his face and tried to get in after the bank had closed. During the morning staff meeting at the bank prior to opening, the bank employees discussed the individual they saw who had tried to get in the day prior. After that meeting, the same individual with the exact same clothes on tried to get in the bank again before it opened. Meeks admitted that he left and returned to the bank after it opened, when he could get in the unlocked door. Meeks further admitted that upon entering the bank, he brandished a weapon that appeared to be a handgun, requested that the tellers put all the money in a bag he brought with him, and threatened to shoot or kill them all.
Following the robbery, Meeks admitted that he drove into Kentucky with a Wayne County Sheriff’s deputy pursuing him, who then shortly after entering Kentucky, turned over the pursuit to a Louisa Police Department officer. Meeks admitted that during the pursuit, he threw large sums of cash from the robbery out the window. Law enforcement deployed stop strips to flatten his tires and Meeks was apprehended. The weapon from the robbery was later found in Fort Gay along the path where Meeks initially fled on foot, and it was discovered to be a BB gun that resembled an actual handgun, without an orange cap on the barrel or any other safety markings to indicate otherwise. Investigators and bank employees determined that the amount Meeks robbed was approximately $32,372.00.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor prosecuted the case.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Inmates Sentenced for Weapon OffensesRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that two men were sentenced for weapon offenses committed while they were inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution at McDowell.
“Two more inmates extend their prison stay,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The staff of the Bureau of Prisons must stay vigilant at all times.”
Tyler Romine, 27, was sentenced to 24 months in prison. He pled guilty in July, admitting that on April 18, 2018, he possessed a weapon consisting of two combination locks attached to a belt, and that he used the weapon to strike another inmate.
Ricardo Delgado-Vazquez, 37, was sentenced to 15 months in prison. He also pled guilty in July, and admitted that on April 20, 2018, he possessed a sharpened piece of metal, commonly called a “shank.” Prison officials found the weapon in the sleeve of his jacket.
The sentences will run consecutively to the sentences the inmates were serving.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons investigated these cases. Assistant United States Attorney John File handled the prosecutions. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentences.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Huntington Man on Parole Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man pled guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Oshae Hamilton, 25, entered a guilty plea to an information charging him with possession with the intent to distribute heroin. The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation.
“I commend the strategic efforts of the Huntington Police Department and West Virginia Parole Services,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “There is no doubt the work of this partnership will stop a number of crimes before they happen.”
Hamilton 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.
Hamilton faces up to twenty years in federal prison when he is sentenced on March 25, 2019.
The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Former West Virginia Cabinet Secretary Sentenced to Federal Prison for Embezzling Fire Department FundsRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Hurricane man and former West Virginia Cabinet Secretary was sentenced today to 37 months in federal prison for embezzling $178,790 from the Teays Valley Volunteer Fire Department, as well as a related tax crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Clifford Keith Gwinn, 64, formerly the Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, previously pled guilty in June 2018 to theft from a program receiving federal funds and failure to report and pay over payroll taxes. As part of Gwinn’s sentence, he was also ordered to pay restitution to the Fire Department, and it’s insurer, in the amount of $178,790 and to the Internal Revenue Service in the amount of $68,281. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations.
“Unimaginable that anyone, much less a former leader in state government, would steal from a Fire Department that is dependent upon funding to provide vital public safety services,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We will aggressively prosecute and seek restitution for victim organizations in cases like this one.”
Gwinn admitted that as Vice President and fiscal officer of the Fire Department, he was in charge of the financial affairs of the Fire Department and exercised significant control over the Fire Department’s finances. He admitted that his duties included reporting income and expenditures to the Fire Department, preparing and submitting taxes for the Fire Department, and assisting with applications and reimbursements for federal grants, among other duties. He further admitted that he, without authorization from the Fire Department, opened a Fire Department bank account where only he had signature authority, transferred funds into that account without the knowledge or authorization from the Fire Department, ensured certain health care insurance company reimbursements were deposited into that account, and wrote himself checks and checks to cash out of that account, which he then typically cashed. He admitted that he further instructed the Fire Department’s Treasurer to write him checks from other Fire Department bank accounts and further misrepresented the amount of bank account balances to the Fire Department officers and board members. He also admitted that he structured withdrawals out of the Fire Department’s accounts in a series of transactions below $10,000, to prevent the banks from filing Currency Transaction Reports. While he admitted that he systematically deposited cash into Fire Department bank accounts, his overall withdrawals and payments received significantly overwhelmed the amount of any deposits. He also admitted that he had no authorization to write himself checks or receive and cash checks from the Fire Department, and was not entitled to any compensation.
During the period from 2013 through 2016 that Gwinn embezzled $178,790 in Fire Department funds, the Teays Valley Volunteer Fire Department received grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security. These grants allowed the Fire Department to pay firefighters and to purchase and maintain equipment.
Furthermore, Gwinn admitted that that while he was Vice President and fiscal officer for the Fire Department, the Fire Department withheld taxes from its employees’ paychecks, including federal income taxes, Medicare, and social security taxes, together known as payroll taxes. He admitted that he knew that he had the corporate responsibility to collect, truthfully account for, and pay over the Fire Department’s payroll taxes. Gwinn admitted that from October 31, 2015 through April 30, 2017, while Gwinn was a responsible person for payroll taxes, Fire Department failed to account for and pay over approximately $61,421.31 in payroll taxes.
Gwinn further admitted that when he filed his personal income tax returns with the IRS, those returns were false because they failed to account for the funds he had embezzled from the Fire Department. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith George Thomas handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Dunbar Man with Two Prior Domestic Violence Convictions Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- A Dunbar, West Virginia man pled guilty to a federal firearms charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Brian M. Oliver, 22, entered a guilty plea today to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Mr. Oliver faces up to 10 years in prison when he is sentenced on March 13, 2019. Stuart praised the work of the Dunbar Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Enforcement (ATF).
“Persons with domestic violence convictions are prohibited from possessing firearms,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Why? Because they have proven to be violent. We are laser focused on removing violent offenders from our communities, and prosecuting prohibited persons in possession of guns is a key part of our crime reduction strategy.”
On April 29, 2018, officers with the Dunbar Police Department stopped a truck for an infraction. Oliver was a passenger in the truck. During the course of the traffic stop, Oliver admitted that he had a firearm on his person. Dunbar officers subsequently patted down Oliver and recovered an Iver Johnson .22 caliber pistol in his front pants pocket. Record checks revealed Oliver had been convicted of the misdemeanor offense of Domestic Battery in Kanawha County Magistrate Court in January 2017, and also of Second Offense Domestic Battery in March 2017. These domestic violence convictions resulted in Oliver being prohibited from carrying a firearm. Oliver admitted to the police officers that he possessed the firearm and was not supposed to do so. The ATF traced the gun, revealing that it had traveled in interstate commerce.
Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is handling the prosecution. The hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
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.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Detroit Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution of FentanylRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. -- A Detroit, Michigan man pled guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Joshua McCarver, 20, entered a guilty plea today to knowingly and intentionally distributing fentanyl in federal court in Huntington.
“Our partnership with the Huntington Police Department is critical to our efforts in Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.),” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We anticipate prosecuting a significant number of fentanyl dealers over the next several months. Perhaps these out-of-state fentanyl dealers will take notice and curtail their travel into West Virginia.”
On February 19, 2018, officers with the Huntington Police Department’s Special Emphasis Unit utilized a confidential informant to arrange a controlled buy of heroin from McCarver. McCarver arrived at the buy location in the West End of Huntington and provided the confidential informant with a substance he represented to be heroin in exchange for $70. Testing by the West Virginia State Police Lab confirmed the substance to actually be fentanyl.
McCarver faces up to 20 years when he is sentenced on March 25, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
Fentanyl is a powerful, synthetic narcotic that works on the brain like other opioids, such as morphine or heroin, but is 50 to 100 times more potent, and can easily cause an overdose. In 2016, the latest year for which numbers are available, fentanyl surpassed heroin as the deadliest drug in the United States, taking more than 18,000, according to the National Center for Health Statistics, part of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Two Men Appear in Federal Court for Roles in Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two men who took part in a conspiracy resulting in the distribution of large quantities of methamphetamine across several counties in West Virginia appeared in federal court yesterday, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Marquis Edward Henderson, 32, of Bronx, New York entered guilty pleas to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and prohibited possession of firearms by convicted felon. Rigoberto Fernandez, Jr., 29, of Scottsdale, Arizona was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. United States Attorney Stuart commended the work of the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
“This investigation shut down another dangerous, multi-state drug trafficking network that was bringing a significant amount of meth into our communities,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Our law enforcement partners are working tirelessly with my team of prosecutors to dismantle drug trafficking organizations peddling their poisons in West Virginia.”
From at least February of 2016 to June of 2017, Henderson and others obtained quantities of methamphetamine and heroin from California which were mailed to the Huntington and Cross Lanes areas. Henderson and others would then distribute the drugs to customers in Cabell, Putnam, and Kanawha counties. Henderson admitted that during the conspiracy, he and others utilized a residence and a storage unit in Cross Lanes to store, prepare and distribute drugs. Henderson also employed others to distribute drugs by providing large quantities of drugs on credit and receiving payment for the drugs after they were sold.
On March 10, 2017, Fernandez assisted Henderson by shipping methamphetamine from California to West Virginia after Henderson arranged to distribute the methamphetamine to a confidential informant in Huntington. The informant was instructed by Henderson to transfer payment for the drugs to Fernandez in California. The informant also provided Fernandez an address where the drugs were to be shipped. After receiving the payment, Fernandez mailed the drugs from the United States Post Office in Carson, California to the address provided by the informant. Agents seized the package on March 13, 2017, and it was found to contain over 440 grams of methamphetamine. A forensic chemist later analyzed the methamphetamine and found it to be 98% pure.
On June 1, 2017, agents executed search warrants at the residence and storage unit in Cross Lanes. During the search, agents seized multiple firearms, ammunition, and over 3 kilograms of methamphetamine that was found to be 98% pure after testing by a forensic chemist. Henderson admitted he was previously convicted of a felony offense and thus, was prohibited from possessing firearms. As part of his plea, Henderson also admitted that he was responsible for the distribution of up to 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine during the conspiracy.
Henderson faces a mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on March 18, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is responsible for the prosecutions. The hearings were held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Project Huntington Update: Operation Saigon Sunset Defendant Sentenced to Prison for Role in Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man and Operation Saigon Sunset defendant was sentenced yesterday to 30 months in prison for his role in a federal drug conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Lonnie Berry, II, 43, previously pled guilty to an indictment which charged him with conspiracy to distribute heroin. This investigation was the result of a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
“Another defendant sentenced to prison for his role in the Peterson Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO),” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “There is no revolving door for defendants convicted on federal charges.”
Berry admitted that between October 2017 and April 2018 he conspired with Willie Peterson, also known as “Chill,” and Manget Peterson, also known as “Money,” to distribute heroin in Huntington, West Virginia. Berry admitted that he sold heroin for Manget Peterson on a daily basis in Huntington.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###