Southern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Lincoln County Man Sentenced to Prison for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A South Carolina man who moved to Lincoln County and failed to register as a sex offender was sentenced to 2 years in federal prison today, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Cody Matthew Wroblewski, 33, of Harts, will spend 10 years on federal supervised release following his sentence. Stuart praised the work of the United States Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police.
“Sex offenders that do not register as required must be held accountable,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The safety of our children depends on it.”
Wroblewski admitted that from January 2017 until his arrest on August 30, 2017, he failed to register as a sex offender as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. On August 30, 2017, Wroblewski was located and arrested at his residence on Bag Harts Creek Road in Lincoln County. Wroblewski was required to register as a sex offender because of a 2011 South Carolina conviction for third degree criminal sexual conduct involving a minor victim. He was also previously convicted in 2012 in South Carolina for failing to update his sex offender registration.
Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald was in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the sentencing hearing.
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
###
Federal Inmates Sentenced on Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that two federal inmates were sentenced for possessing weapons. Stuart commended the work of the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
“The staff of the Bureau of Prisons has incredibly dangerous jobs,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I commend them for preventing violence within the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) at Beckley.”
Brandon Owens, 22, an inmate at the FCI Beckley, was sentenced to 12 months in prison, to be served consecutively to the sentence he is now serving. Owens pled guilty in January, admitting that on June 3, 2017, he possessed a handcrafted weapon, often called a “shank,” inside the waistband of his pants. An FCI Beckley staff member found the weapon when he searched Owens.
George A. Harper, 33, also an inmate at FCI Beckley, was sentenced to 12 months, also to be served consecutively to his current prison sentence. He pled guilty in January, and admitted that on July 16, 2017, he hid a shank in his coffee cup. A prison staff member found the shank inside the cup.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentences. The cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John File.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Delaware Man Sentenced for Federal Firearm ViolationRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Delaware man was sentenced to 5 years for a federal firearm violation, announced United States Attorney Michael B. Stuart. Jeffrey M. Burris, 41, of Wilmington, Delaware, formerly of Nettie, West Virginia, pled guilty in September 2017 to a single count of possessing firearms which were not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Stuart commended the investigative work of the West Virginia State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“As I’ve said before, I strongly support the Second Amendment, but those who break our gun laws will pay a heavy price,” said United States Attorney Stuart.
On May 10, 2017, the West Virginia State Police contacted ATF agents to advise that troopers were called to the Burris's residence in Nettie in response to a domestic disturbance call received from Mrs. Burris. Mrs. Burris advised 911 operators that Burris was taking and concealing evidence in the woods behind their residence. Upon arrival at the residence, officers indicated they could hear an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) in the woods behind the residence. Mrs. Burris met officers in the driveway and advised that Burris was hiding evidence in the woods, and Burris had a firearm in his possession.
Officers proceeded to the woods in an attempt to locate Burris. Unsuccessful in locating Burris, officers returned to the residence and spoke with Mayra Burris, who advised that after Burris learned officers were at the residence earlier in the day regarding an ATF tip alleging he possessed illegal firearm silencers, Burris became angry. Burris loaded items onto his ATV and took them into the woods to hide.
While speaking with Mrs. Burris, officers heard and observed an ATV coming from the woods. The ATV was driven by Burris. Officers made contact with Burris and observed he was armed with two pistols and an AR-style rifle. Officers secured Burris, secured the weapons for officer safety, and placed Burris into custody.
On May 11, 2017, ATF agents and WVSP troopers returned to the Burris residence. The agents searched over 30 acres of property owned by Burris. During a search of the residence, officers seized several thousand rounds of ammunition from an upstairs attic area, along with additional marijuana paraphernalia found near a gun safe. In the wooded area surrounding the residence where Burris had initially fled to prior to his arrest the previous evening, officers discovered a black cylindrical container and a blue five-gallon bucket with a lid. Inside the bucket, officers found four homemade silencers with mounting hardware/adapters. Inside the cylindrical container, officers discovered a Cobray/Street Sweeper, 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun; an RPB Industries, Model M-10, 9-millimeter pistol with a partially obliterated serial number; a German MP40, 9-milliter machinegun, three firearm trigger assemblies and marijuana paraphernalia.
Fourteen of the approximately 70 firearms seized from the Burris property were required to be registered with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. None of the 14 were.
C. Haley Bunn and R. Gregory McVey handled the prosecution. United States District Court Judge Irene C. Berger handed down the sentence.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Charleston Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston felon who possessed a firearm in August 2017 was sentenced yesterday to five years in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Vincent Deward Beatty, 40, previously pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the investigation of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT).
“As part of our ongoing efforts to reduce violent crime in our communities, my office is working with ATF and other law enforcement partners, to aggressively prosecute convicted felons that possess firearms,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I strongly support the Second Amendment but convicted felons have forfeited the right to bear arms.”
On August 7, 2017, Beatty sold a Smith & Wesson .22 caliber pistol to an MDENT confidential informant for $200. Beatty admitted at his plea hearing that he had the gun in his possession at the time of the sale. Beatty is prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law because of a 2007 felony conviction for aggravated assault in Union County, New Jersey.
Assistant United States Attorney Matt Davis was in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin, handed down the sentence.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
- Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
- Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
Akron Man Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Lonnie Brown, 47, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison, announced United States Attorney Michael B. Stuart. He was caught with a firearm in September 2016 and selling fentanyl in February 2017. Stuart praised the investigative efforts of the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department STOP Team, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Charleston Police Department.
“Felons, guns and drugs do not mix,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Guys like Brown are a danger to the safety of our citizens and law enforcement officers and should be locked up.”
On September 26, 2016, officers with the Charleston Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a Honda Accord in Charleston. Brown fled the vehicle on foot. During the search of the vehicle, officers located a Glock, Model 27, caliber .40 semi-automatic pistol in the floorboard where Brown had been sitting. Brown was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because he had been convicted in 2015 in Montgomery County, Ohio for possession of heroin.
On February 15, 2017, agents with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team used a confidential informant to make a controlled buy of heroin from the defendant. The buy occurred at 602 Randolph Street, Apartment B, in Charleston. The defendant provided the informant with suspected heroin. The substance tested positive for fentanyl.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence.
The drug prosecution is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Michigan Man Sentenced on Drug Charge in Federal Court in BeckleyRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that a Michigan man was sentenced to prison on drug charges in federal court in Beckley. Tremaine Dean Pool Jr., 23, of Romulus, a suburb of Detroit, was sentenced to 40 months in prison. Stuart praised the work of the Greenbrier Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.
“I commend the law enforcement agencies in Greenbrier County for working together to rid their streets of violent pill dealers,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Communities throughout southern West Virginia have been ravaged by opiate abuse and addiction and we are more committed than ever to putting an end to this epidemic.”
Pool pled guilty in January, admitting that on December 2, 2016, law enforcement authorities found a loaded 9mm handgun and a bag containing 68 40 mg oxymorphone pills close to him when they searched a residence in Lewisburg. Pool admitted that he possessed the pain pills with intent to distribute them and also possessed the gun. He further admitted that he worked with his codefendants, Joshua Adam Smith and Jessica Nicole Honaker, to distribute pain pills in Greenbrier County during November and December 2016, and that they distributed or possessed with the intent to distribute about 300 40 mg oxymorphone pills during that time. Smith received 96 months for his part in this drug activity, and Honaker was sentenced to 24 months.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. The case was investigated as part of the Greenbrier Valley Heroin and Pill Initiative. That initiative is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, to combat illegal drug trafficking in communities across the Southern District. Assistant United States Attorney John File prosecuted the case.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Hanover Man Found Guilty of Dumping Sewage into West Virginia StreamRead the Press Release
Defendant was dumping truckloads of sewage into Little Huff Creek in Wyoming County
BECKLEY, WV -- Mike Blankenship was found guilty after a two day jury trial, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Mike Blankenship, 54, of Hanover, West Virginia, was convicted of two felony Clean Water Act violations and faces a total sentence of up to six years of incarceration, a $500,000 fine, supervised release for three years, and a special assessment of $200 when he is sentenced on August 1, 2018 by United States District Judge Irene C. Berger. United States Attorney Mike Stuart praised the work of the Environmental Protection Agency and the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, who were also assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Virginia State Police.
“Environmental crimes are serious, serious matters,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “After presentation of the evidence and in front of a jury of his peers, Mr. Blankenship was convicted for a serious environmental crime. Great work by my team and by the EPA and West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection.”
“The defendant in this case showed reckless disregard for the environment and public health,” said Susan Bodine, assistant administrator of EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Working together, EPA, FBI and the State of West Virginia are sending a clear message that those who violate laws designed to protect our communities will be held responsible.”
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 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 jury also heard testimony from the law enforcement agents and experts in water quality assessment.
Assistant United States Attorneys Erik S. Goes and Special Assistant United States Attorney Perry McDaniel represented the United States during the jury trial.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Major Takedown Dismantles Multi-State Heroin and Fentanyl NetworkRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today a major takedown of drug traffickers and related drug networks recently indicted by a federal grand jury in Huntington, as well as other narcotics, violent crime and firearm related targets. Joining United States Attorney Stuart in the announcement were Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Chris Evans, Federal Bureau of Investigation Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) Nick Boshears, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Stuart Lowrey, Homeland Security Investigations Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) Dave Abbate, Huntington Mayor Steve Williams, Huntington Interim Police Chief Hank Dial, West Virginia State Police Captain Mike LaFauci, West Virginia National Guard Adjutant General James Hoyer, Cabell County Prosecuting Attorney Sean “Corky” Hammers, U.S. Marshal Michael Baylous, Cabell County Sheriff Chuck Zerkle, Wayne County Sheriff Rick Thompson, Marshall University Police Chief Jim Terry and AHIDTA State Director Kenny Burner.
In response to a growing opiate epidemic and violent crime in southern West Virginia, United States Attorney Stuart announced the formation of Project Huntington on March 15th alongside federal, state and local law enforcement partners. Today, in a takedown of federal and state targets, nearly 100 defendants have been targeted for arrest including the execution of Operation Saigon Sunset and related search warrants in Huntington, WV. It is believed that today’s actions will result in the dismantling of the Peterson Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO), a major multi-state heroin and fentanyl distribution network. In addition to the dismantling of the Peterson DTO, federal, state and local law enforcement are executing arrests for related violent elements including narcotics and firearms targets.
Today’s actions break down as follows:
- At least 15 individuals involved in the Peterson DTO have been charged in a federal indictment in the Southern District of West Virginia with conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl;
- 15 individuals involved in the Peterson DTO were indicted yesterday in Cabell County Circuit Court on state charges;
- Additional members of the Peterson DTO will be arrested and charged in Detroit;
- 13 individuals involved in narcotics and/or firearms that have been charged in federal indictments in the Southern District of West Virginia; and
- At least 48 individuals are targeted for arrest on various narcotics, violent crime, and firearms related charges at the federal or state level as determined by the circumstances of each matter.
As an indication of the scale of the operation, over 200 federal, state and local law enforcement officers took part in today’s take-down effort. The West Virginia National Guard also provided a number of personnel in a support function to the operation.
Today’s actions would not have been possible without the seamless collaboration of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, with assistance from the Michigan State Police and the Ohio Highway Patrol. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia and the Eastern District of Michigan, as well as the Cabell County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, worked together hand-in-hand to remove these dangerous drug traffickers from the streets of Huntington and Detroit.
In conjunction with the arrest and search warrants executed in Huntington today, it is anticipated federal authorities in Detroit will soon be executing additional arrest warrants and search warrants. Additional charges will be brought against individuals in the Eastern District of Michigan.
“Our great country has never seen drug deaths like we’re seeing today,” Attorney General Jeff Sessions said. “Under President Trump’s strong leadership, the Department of Justice has taken historic new actions to put drug traffickers in jail and keep dangerous drugs out of the wrong hands. I want to thank all of our partners at DEA, FBI, ATF, the Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations, as well as our fabulous partners at the state and local levels for their hard work. Today’s charges against at least 90 defendants will help make the people of West Virginia and Michigan safer from the threat of dangerous drugs—and they bring us one step closer to ending the opioid epidemic.”
“Today’s actions have removed from our streets enough fentanyl to kill more than 250,000 people and massive amounts of other drugs that would have wreaked havoc and misery on our good citizens. Today is a turning point for the City of Huntington and in the war against the opiate nightmare,” said US Attorney Stuart. “Best yet, today’s actions have resulted in the destruction of a supply network, the supplier of suppliers of illicit drugs. The peddlers of poisons like heroin and fentanyl are in the crosshairs of this Administration and law enforcement. We still have work to do but the days of havoc, chaos and misery caused by the peddlers of illicit poisons are soon to be over.”
“Today, on tax day, the citizens of Huntington and the surrounding area got their money’s worth, said Huntington Mayor Steve Williams. “Thanks to the coordination of our federal, state and local law enforcement agencies our city is safer. I thank United States Attorney Mike Stuart and Major General Jim Hoyer of the West Virginia National Guard for their steadfast support. The men and women of every law enforcement agency are owed a monumental debt of gratitude for placing their lives in harm’s way to make our families safe.”
The investigation revealed that the Peterson DTO had been operating in Huntington for nearly 15 years, trafficking large amounts of heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine from Detroit to be sold in Huntington in street-level gram quantities. In August 2017, investigators with the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West (“VCDTFW”) executed a search warrant at Manget Peterson’s residence and an associated hotel room, where Manget Peterson’s workers were distributing heroin. These searches resulted in the seizure of two handguns, over seventy half gram baggies of heroin ready for distribution, and other evidence of drug trafficking. Manget Peterson’s brother, Willie Peterson, was identified as the leader and drug supplier of the organization. Multiple sources advised that the Peterson DTO distributed kilogram quantities of heroin in Huntington, West Virginia, on nearly a weekly basis, using a network of re-distributors.
Law enforcement learned that the DEA in Detroit had opened an investigation into Willie Peterson, after a search of his residence in July 2017 resulted in the seizure of over 360 grams of fentanyl. The DEA’s investigations in West Virginia and in Detroit have resulted in investigators seizing additional drug loads and to the identification of two of Willie Peterson’s drug suppliers in Detroit, Michigan. As of April 3, 2018, law enforcement has seized approximately 760 grams of suspected heroin, 450 grams of suspected fentanyl, and 167 grams of suspected cocaine. The fentanyl seized prior to today’s actions could have resulted in the death of more than 250,000 people.
This morning, Manget Peterson was apprehended in Huntington and his brother, Willie Peterson, was apprehended in Detroit. Malcolm Simmons was also arrested in Detroit this morning.
According to Chris Evans, Special Agent in Charge of DEA’s Louisville Division Office, “Today’s round-up sends a clear message to the people of Huntington and all of West Virginia: drug traffickers who come here to destroy our communities will be aggressively pursued by DEA, in conjunction with West Virginia’s federal, state and local law enforcement components.”
“ATF is committed to working with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney’s Office to reduce violent crime in Huntington,” said Stuart Lowrey, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in West Virginia and Kentucky. “Together we will identify and investigate armed violent offenders and their illicit sources of guns. Traffickers and triggerpullers – beware.”
“We are building a collaborative approach here in Huntington,” said Interim Huntington Police Chief Hank Dial. “Day in and day out we go after criminals who are bringing these drugs into our community and work to get people into much needed treatment. We greatly appreciate our state and federal partnering agencies bringing their powerful resources to our community. There is one thing the good people of Huntington and the bad people in Huntington have in common, they both deserve today.”
In the Southern District of West Virginia, 15 individuals have been charged in a federal indictment with conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl. The investigation is ongoing and could result in additional federal and state charges in the future.
Please Note: An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.Wood County Man Sentenced to Twelve Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today a Wood County man was sentenced in connection with a federal methamphetamine charge. Timothy Waldron, 31, of Mineral Wells, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. to 12 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Stuart praised the work of the Parkersburg Drug Task Force.
“This sentence should send a message to anyone thinking about distributing methamphetamine in the Southern District of West Virginia,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Unless you want to be locked up, it’s just not a good idea.”
Waldron previously pled guilty in January admitting that he possessed methamphetamine seized from a safe in his Mineral Wells residence for distribution. The approximately 1300 grams of methamphetamine had been found during execution of a search warrant at defendant’s residence by agents of the Parkersburg Drug Task Force on November 20, 2016.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of heroin, methamphetamine and prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal heroin, methamphetamine and pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of heroin, methamphetamine and opiate painkillers in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
Defendant had a felony child abuse conviction in Florida and a prior removal
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Alan Lopez-Salazar pled guilty to the felony offense of Reentry of a Removed Alien, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Mr. Lopez-Salazar, 29, of Mexico, faces up to 10 years of incarceration, a 250,000 dollar fine, supervised release for three years, and a special assessment when he is sentenced on May 21, 2018 by United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. He also faces removal proceedings at the conclusion of any sentence of incarceration. United States Attorney Mike Stuart praised the work of the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“We are committed to prosecuting every single individual who enters the United States illegally,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Legally entering the United States is not complicated. Get in line and follow the rules, and if you don’t, we’re sending you back home.”
On January 31, 2018, Mr. Lopez-Salazar was arrested by the Cabell County Sheriff’s department for disturbing the peace and destruction of property. After giving a Mexican identification document, ICE agents were contacted and responded to the scene. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents confirmed that Mr. Lopez-Salazar was not in the United States legally and he was taken into federal custody. Fingerprints taken from the defendant matched him to a felony conviction and a prior removal in 2011. The felony conviction occurred on August 23, 2011 in Collier County, Florida where, defendant was convicted of felony child abuse. After this conviction Mr. Lopez-Salazar was removed from the United States on October 11, 2011 Mr. Lopez-Salazar then reentered the United States without legal permission from the Secretary of Homeland Security. Mr. Lopez-Salazar is a citizen of Mexico.
Assistant United States Attorneys Erik S. Goes and Stephanie Taylor are handling the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Detroit Man Sentenced for Federal Heroin CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man who was caught with heroin in Huntington in 2015 was sentenced to 49 months in federal prison today, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. JaJuan Thrasher, 30, previously pled guilty in January to possession with intent to distribute heroin. Stuart commended the work of the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force.
“Detroit drug dealers are soon to be a mere footnote in Huntington’s history,” said United States Attorney Stuart. “Thrasher is just the latest to be going to federal prison as a result of our efforts.”
On September 14, 2015, members of the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at 2317 Lincoln Avenue, Apartment A in Huntington. When investigators executed the warrant, they located Thrasher and two additional individuals inside the residence. Investigators subsequently seized approximately 18 grams of heroin, which was packaged for distribution, from Thrasher’s pocket. Thrasher admitted to investigators that he had been engaged in distributing heroin in the Huntington area. As part of his plea, Thrasher also admitted that he and others used the Lincoln Avenue apartment to distribute heroin between the summer of 2015 and September 14, 2015.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. United States District Court Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.
This case was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
South Charleston Meth Dealer Sentenced to 8 Years for Federal Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A methamphetamine dealer from South Charleston was sentenced today to 8 years in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jamie Harmon, 38, previously pled guilty to distribution of methamphetamine.
Stuart commended the thorough investigation conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“Thanks to our law enforcement partners, another meth dealer is out of business,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Meth is a serious growing problem and now dealers are blending it with other poisons like fentanyl. It’s priority we keep these poisons off the streets and we’ll lock up every crystal meth dealer we can find.”
Harmon admitted that in January 2017, he and other individuals brought approximately four kilograms of crystal methamphetamine from Atlanta to Charleston. On January 12, 2017, officers with MDENT executed a search warrant at a hotel room and found over 130 grams of methamphetamine, scales, baggies, and a gun. The methamphetamine was part of the approximately four kilograms Harmon and others brought back from Atlanta, and it was lab-tested and confirmed to be over 90% pure. Harmon also admitted to distributing additional methamphetamine to confidential informants during controlled buys in March 2017.
Three other defendants involved in this methamphetamine conspiracy have been sentenced to federal prison. Quinton Funk, of Webster Springs, was sentenced to 21 years and 10 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Christopher Carte, of St. Albans, was sentenced to three years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Holly Doub, of South Charleston, was sentenced to five days in federal prison for aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine.
Assistant United States Attorneys Eric Bacaj and Haley Bunn were responsible for the prosecutions. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over these cases.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Federal Inmate Pleads Guilty to Possession of a WeaponRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that an inmate at the Beckley Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) pled guilty to possession of a weapon. Coleman Ferrell, 31, an inmate at FCI Beckley, pled guilty to possession of a weapon by a federal inmate.
Stuart praised the work of the Bureau of Prisons (BOP).
“This was a very serious situation that could have led to tragedy for prison staff and other inmates,” said United States Mike Stuart. “My team is committed to working with the Bureau of Prisons to prosecute these cases.”
Ferrell admitted that on December 22, 2017, he possessed a handcrafted weapon known as a “shank” inside FCI Beckley. He faces up to five years in prison when he is sentenced on July 18, 2018.
United States District Court Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney John File is handling the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Detroit Man Pleads Guilty to Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that a Detroit man pled guilty to a federal drug charge. William James Springer, 31, of the Detroit area, pled guilty to distribution of a quantity of oxymorphone. Springer admitted that on October 5, 2016, he distributed three oxymorphone pills to a confidential informant. He further admitted that between September 2016 and December 2016 he was involved in distributing about 300 40 mg oxymorphone pills in Greenbrier County, including pills which he distributed as charged in the other counts of the indictment. Springer faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on July 18, 2018. Stuart praised the work of the Greenbrier Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.
“We should send Detroit a bill. They send us their drug dealers and we lock them up,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “They have wreaked havoc in West Virginia for far too long. Detroit drug dealers are not welcome here.”
United States District Court Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney John File is handling the prosecution.
The case was investigated as part of the Greenbrier Valley Heroin and Pill Initiative, an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the sale of heroin and the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Charleston Felon Sentenced to Six Years in Federal Prison for Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston felon, who sold heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine was sentenced to six years in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Christopher Rush, 32, previously pled guilty to distribution of heroin. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT).
“A repeat drug dealer and, now a repeat convicted felon. Getting him and others like him off the streets is a priority for me,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Sending him to prison is a win for law enforcement and the general public.”
Rush previously admitted that on May 10, 2017, he sold heroin to a confidential informant working with MDENT. The drug deal took place in Charleston, West Virginia. He also admitted that he sold heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine to this same confidential informant on three other occasions. Based on the four controlled drug buys, officers with MDENT obtained a search warrant for Rush’s residence. On May 31, 2017, officers executed that search warrant and found in excess of 100 grams of crystal methamphetamine that had a purity of 99 percent. Rush admitted to law enforcement officers that the methamphetamine belonged to him.
Assistant United States Attorneys C. Haley Bunn and Timothy D. Boggess handled the prosecution. The sentence was imposed by United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###Beckley Man Pleads Guilty to Passing Counterfeit ChecksRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Beckley man pled guilty today to his role in a mail theft and counterfeit check cashing conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Shawn Meadows, 30, entered his guilty plea to uttering counterfeit securities.
Stuart commended the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Beckley Police Department.
“Mail theft and counterfeiting are serious, serious crimes,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Honest, hardworking taxpayers are left paying for those who cheat, steal and lie and I will protect the taxpayers from criminals like this every single day.”
Meadows admitted that he received three counterfeit checks from his co-defendant, Savion Thomas, which he then passed at three separate branches of a bank in Raleigh County.
Smith faces up to ten years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine when he is sentenced on August 1, 2018. Meadows also agreed to pay more than $7,000 in restitution.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric P. Bacaj is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
***media Advisory***Read the Press Release
UNITED STATES ATTORNEY JOINS WITH GOVERNOR IN HONORING FALLEN HEROES OF LAW ENFORCEMENT
AND TO COMMEMORATE NATIONAL CRIME VICTIMS' RIGHTS WEEK
Back the Blue: Honoring Our Fallen Heroes, and Celebrating Law Enforcement’s Contributions to Crime Victims and Service
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Federal, state and local law enforcement and advocates of crime victims’ rights will join United States Attorney Mike Stuart in hosting an opening ceremony on Thursday, April 12, 2018, in the Robert C. Byrd United States Courthouse in Charleston, and a Walk/Run for Justice on Friday, April 13, 2018, at Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston. Both events are being held in recognition of National Crime Victims' Rights Week.
This year’s local theme is “Back the Blue: Law Enforcement’s Contributions to Crime Victims and Service.” The ceremony and walk/run will honor and remember fallen law enforcement who paid the ultimate sacrifice, and celebrate those who continue to serve crime victims and the community. As part of the event, the United States Attorney and the West Virginia Fraternal Order of Police will unveil a statewide tribute to our men and women in blue.
West Virginia Governor James “Jim” Justice, II has issued a Proclamation ordering on April 13th at noon a statewide moment of silence be observed, at which time United States Attorney Mike Stuart has, in addition to the moment of silence, called for all houses of worship to toll their bells.
This years’ events mark the 18th Annual Operation Reach Out event. Operation Reach Out is a collaborative group of federal, state and local agencies and organizations that work to raise awareness about the rights, protections, and services available to crime victims in West Virginia. This event is being held in conjunction with the nationwide observance of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, which begins on April 8 and runs through April 14, 2018.
OPENING CEREMONY:
WHO: United States Attorney Mike Stuart
West Virginia Fraternal Order of Police
Operation Reach Out committee members
Other federal, state and local officials
Families of fallen heroes of law enforcement
Staff of United States Attorney's Office, Southern District of West Virginia
WHAT: Operation Reach Out Opening Ceremony for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week – Back the Blue
WHERE: Robert C. Byrd United States Courthouse – Fifth Floor
300 Virginia Street, East
Charleston, WV 25301WHEN: Thursday, April 12, 2018, at noon. The ceremony will immediately follow a reception and lunch beginning at 11:30 a.m.
WALK/RUN FOR JUSTICE & PRE-RACE CEREMONY:
WHO: United States Attorney Mike Stuart
James Bailey, Senior Counsel to Governor Jim Justice
Major General James A. Hoyer, West Virginia National Guard
Operation Reach Out committee members
Survivors of Crime
Other federal, state and local officials
Staff of United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of West Virginia
WHAT: Walk/Run for Justice and Pre-Race Ceremony
WHERE: Haddad Riverfront Park
Kanawha Boulevard
Charleston, WV
WHEN: Friday, April 13, 2018. Registration to begin at 11:00 a.m. Ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Race at noon.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Webster County Man Sentenced to over 20 Years in Prison for Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Webster County man who brought more than 4 kilograms of methamphetamine to Charleston was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Quinton Funk, 38, of Webster Springs, previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute over 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“The increase in methamphetamine trafficking throughout the Southern District of West Virginia is greatly concerning,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We need to stop meth now before it becomes an even bigger problem. We will aggressively prosecute meth dealers like Funk to the fullest extent of the law.”
Funk took part in a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy that transported more than 4 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine from Atlanta and sold it in West Virginia. On January 4, 2017, Funk traveled to Atlanta with codefendants Jamie Harmon and Carl “Yogi” Clark to buy the methamphetamine. He further admitted to bringing the drugs back to West Virginia and selling that methamphetamine. Later that month, Funk was arrested with approximately $28,000 in cash in his backpack, and a loaded Glock 22, .40 caliber pistol in his possession. That same day, MDENT officers executed a search warrant at a hotel room where Funk was staying and found over 130 grams of methamphetamine, scales, baggies, and a gun. In February 2017, law enforcement arrested him again after he provided Christopher Carte, another codefendant, an ounce of methamphetamine to distribute. Officers recovered another $2,700 in cash from Funk when he was arrested. As part of his plea agreement, Funk also admitted to all the drug and gun crimes he was charged with in the indictment.
Two other defendants involved in this methamphetamine conspiracy have been sentenced to federal prison. Christopher Carte, of St. Albans, was sentenced to three years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Holly Doub, of South Charleston, was sentenced to five days in federal prison for aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine.
Clark and Harmon both pled guilty to distribution of methamphetamine and each faces up to 20 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on April 12, 2018. Clark and Harmon have admitted they possessed approximately four kilograms of methamphetamine during the course of the conspiracy.
Assistant United States Attorneys Haley Bunn and Eric Bacaj are handling the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Charleston Woman Pleads Guilty to Meth Distribution ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston woman entered a guilty plea today to a federal drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Baylee Gibson, age 19, of Bench Road, pled guilty to distribution of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Stuart praised the work of the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT).
“It’s always tragic when young people make bad choices that forever alter the course of their lives,” said United States Attorney Stuart. “Becoming a drug dealer is one of the worst choices anyone could make and, as a result, this defendant will be spending much of her young adulthood in federal prison.”
On August 25, 2017, an agent with MDENT arranged to meet Gibson and purchase one ounce of methamphetamine for $1200. The agent had spoken to Gibson on the telephone and had arranged the price and quantity.. Gibson told the agent to meet her at a parking lot just off the campus of West Virginia State University (WVSU) on Baron Drive in Institute. This was the site of a previous methamphetamine sale by Gibson. The agent met Gibson as planned. After a brief discussion, Gibson took $1200.00 of prerecorded buy money, got out of the agent' s car and walked towards the campus of WVSU. Additional MDENT agents were positioned around the campus conducting surveillance. Gibson then met with another individual, later identified as her co defendant, Kyle Keith Russell, and returned to the agent's car. There, Gibson provided the agent with a clear plastic bag with a substance that field tested positive as methamphetamine. The substance was sent to the Mid-Atlantic DEA laboratory where it was tested. The testing showed the substance was 23.39 grams of pure methamphetamine. Gibson arranged and sold methamphetamine to the same undercover agent on August 22, 2017, and twice on August 30, 2017. The agent arranged all three of those additional sales directly with Gibson. Those sales took place in the same manner and at the same location as the count of conviction. Kyle Keith Russell was Gibson’s source of supply for those sales. Russell’s jury trial is scheduled for May 15, 2018.
Gibson faces up to 40 years imprisonment and up to a $5 million fine when she is sentenced on July 10, 2018. United States District Court Judge John T. Copenhaver presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney R. Gregory McVey handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Putnam County Man Pleads Guilty to Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Defendant faces at least five and up to 20 years in federal prison
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man pled guilty today to a child pornography crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Stephen Craig Sluss, 59, of Scott Depot, entered his guilty plea to receiving child pornography. U.S. Attorney Stuart praised the investigative efforts of the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations.
U.S. Attorney Stuart said, “I commend the law enforcement officers dedicated to investigating these disgusting crimes, as well as the members of my team who prosecute these cases. Protecting our children from predators is some of the most difficult and important work we do.”
Sluss admitted that on April 1, 2017, he received videos of prepubescent minors engaged in sex acts. The videos were received by Sluss via the Internet. The investigation revealed that Sluss was using a web-based chatting service to access and download child pornography. Sluss further admitted to possessing over 600 images and videos of minors engaged in sex acts, and that some of those images involved sadistic conduct.
Sluss faces at least five and up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on July 19, 2018. 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.
First Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston and Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald are in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
New York Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A New York man who took part in drug conspiracy between 2016 and 2017 pled guilty today in federal court in Huntington, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Karl Nesly Lamerique, 31, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute heroin and 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.
“Great teamwork between the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force and United States Postal Inspection Service means another out-of-state drug dealer is out of business and headed to the big house,” said United States Attorney Stuart. “We are building remarkable relationships among our federal, state and local partners and utilizing every tool at our disposal to prosecute anyone selling dangerous drugs in our communities.”
From at least February of 2016 to June of 2017, Lamerique obtained quantities of methamphetamine and heroin from California which were mailed to the Huntington and Cross Lanes areas. Lamerique and others would then distribute the drugs to customers in Cabell, Putnam, and Kanawha counties. Lamerique also utilized others to distribute drugs by providing large quantities of drugs on credit and receiving payment for the drugs after they were sold.
Lamerique admitted that during the conspiracy, he and others utilized a residence and a storage unit in Cross Lanes to store, prepare and distribute drugs. Lamerique provided drugs to individuals who stayed in the residence and distributed the drugs on behalf of Lamerique and another individual. On June 1, 2017, agents executed search warrants at the residence and storage unit. 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. As part of his plea, Lamerique admitted that he was responsible for the distribution of up to 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine during the conspiracy.
Lamerique faces a mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on July 19, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is responsible for the prosecution. The investigation was conducted by the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force and the United States Postal Inspection Service. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
***Media Advisory***Read the Press Release
LAW ENFORCEMENT AND CRIME VICTIM ADVOCATES JOIN TO COMMEMORATE NATIONAL CRIME VICTIMS' RIGHTS WEEK
Back the Blue: Honoring Our Fallen Heroes, and Celebrating Law Enforcement’s Contributions to Crime Victims and Service
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Federal, state and local law enforcement and advocates of crime victims’ rights will join United States Attorney Mike Stuart in hosting an opening ceremony on Thursday, April 12, 2018, in the Robert C. Byrd United States Courthouse in Charleston, and a Walk/Run for Justice on Friday, April 13, 2018, at Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston. Both events are being held in recognition of National Crime Victims' Rights Week.
This year’s local theme is “Back the Blue: Law Enforcement’s Contributions to Crime Victims and Service.” The ceremony and walk/run will honor and remember fallen law enforcement who paid the ultimate sacrifice, and celebrate those who continue to serve crime victims and the community. As part of the event, the United States Attorney and the West Virginia Fraternal Order of Police will unveil a statewide tribute to our men and women in blue.
United States Attorney Mike Stuart has called for and West Virginia Governor James “Jim” Justice, II has issued a Proclamation ordering on April 13th: (i) a statewide moment of silence at noon; (ii) simultaneous tolling of the bells at houses of worship across the state; and, (iii) flags flown at half-staff for the entire day.
This years’ events mark the 18th Annual Operation Reach Out event. Operation Reach Out is a collaborative group of federal, state and local agencies and organizations that work to raise awareness about the rights, protections, and services available to crime victims in West Virginia. This event is being held in conjunction with the nationwide observance of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, which begins on April 8 and runs through April 14, 2018.
OPENING CEREMONY:
WHO: United States Attorney Mike Stuart
West Virginia Fraternal Order of Police
Operation Reach Out committee members
Other federal, state and local officials
Staff of United States Attorney's Office, Southern District of West Virginia
WHAT: Operation Reach Out Opening Ceremony for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week – Back the Blue
WHERE: Robert C. Byrd United States Courthouse – Fifth Floor
300 Virginia Street, East
Charleston, WV 25301WHEN: Thursday, April 12, 2018, at noon. The ceremony will immediately follow a reception and lunch beginning at 11:30 a.m.
WALK/RUN FOR JUSTICE & PRE-RACE CEREMONY:
WHO: United States Attorney Mike Stuart
James Bailey, Senior Counsel to Governor Jim Justice
Major General James A. Hoyer, West Virginia National Guard
Operation Reach Out committee members
Survivors of Crime
Other federal, state and local officials
Staff of United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of West Virginia
WHAT: Walk/Run for Justice and Pre-Race Ceremony
WHERE: Haddad Riverfront Park, Kanawha Boulevard, Charleston, WV
WHEN: Friday, April 13, 2018. Registration to begin at 11:00 a.m. Ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Race at noon.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Parkersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Defendant faces at least five and up to 20 years in federal prison
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man pled guilty today to a child pornography crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Terry Allen Riley, 59, entered his guilty plea to receiving child pornography. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Parkersburg Police Department.
“These cases are truly crimes of hideous violence and a priority for my team,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Riley’s conviction means another child predator will soon be behind bars.”
Riley admitted that on June 12, 2015, he received a video of a prepubescent minor engaged in sex acts. The video was received on Riley’s computer located at his residence. The investigation revealed that Riley was using a cloud-based email service to download, receive, and distribute child pornography. Riley further admitted to possessing over 600 images and videos of minors engaged in sex acts, and that some of those images involved sadistic conduct or conduct involving infants and toddlers.
Riley faces at least five and up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on July 3, 2018. 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.
First Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston and Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald are in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pled guilty today in federal court to a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Michael B. Stuart. Avante Anthony Jones, age 22, of South Park Road, pled guilty to distribution of methamphetamine. United States Attorney Stuart gave credit to the joint investigation conducted by DEA, the U.S. 119 Drug Task Force, and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) for the successful prosecution.
“Methamphetamine is quickly becoming the illicit drug of choice among West Virginia drug abusers,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We are making a concerted effort to stem the tide of methamphetamine coming into our communities by aggressively prosecuting distributors like Avante Jones.”
On August 8, 2017, a confidential informant contacted Jones and arranged to buy an ounce of methamphetamine for $1000. Jones met the confidential informant on Centers Road in Charleston and conducted the deal.
The plea hearing was held before United States District John T. Copenhaver, Jr. Assistant United States Attorney R. Gregory McVey is in charge of this prosecution.
Jones faces up to 40 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $5 million when he is sentenced on July 2, 2018.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Hurricane Man Sentenced for Federal Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Hurricane man caught receiving a shipment of crystal methamphetamine in Huntington was sentenced today to 90 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Sean Bradsher, 35, previously pled guilty to aiding and abetting the attempted possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in federal court in Huntington. United States Attorney Stuart praised the efforts of the DEA AHIDTA Task Force.
“Any day we can intercept a delivery of illicit drugs and keep them off the streets is a great day. Meth is back and in a terribly horrible way,” said United States Attorney Stuart. “Guys like Bradsher need to be locked up.”
On January 13, 2017, members of the DEA AHIDTA Task Force conducted a controlled delivery of approximately 25 pounds of marijuana and 150 grams of crystal methamphetamine to Bradsher at a residence on 4th Avenue in Huntington. The drugs were intercepted by agents the previous day after they were sent from California to Huntington. After Bradsher took possession of the drugs, agents executed a search warrant at the residence. Agents recovered the marijuana and methamphetamine along with a total of $13,842 in United States currency during the search.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. The sentence was imposed by United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
This prosecutions was part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Detroit Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Pill ChargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit woman caught with pain pills in Huntington in 2015 pled guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Kieyonda Annette-Marie Toler, 28, entered her guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute oxymorphone in federal court in Huntington. United States Attorney Stuart commended the work of the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force.
“Detroit drug dealers have wreaked havoc in our communities, particularly in Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. We are working with our law enforcement partners to aggressively prosecute every case. At some point, even Detroit drug thugs should be able to figure out that they are not welcome here.”
On December 3, 2015, members of the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force were conducting surveillance at the Greyhound Bus Station located in Huntington. Officers observed Toler exit a bus that had arrived from Detroit, Michigan and approached Toler to speak with her. Officers subsequently seized marijuana and an oxymorphone tablet Toler had in possession and Toler was placed under arrest. After Toler was transported to the Western Regional Jail, a correctional officer seized an additional 58 oxymorphone tablets Toler had concealed in her pants. Toler admitted that she intended to provide some of the tablets to another individual for distribution.
Toler faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on July 19, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Columbus Man Sentenced for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Columbus man who was caught selling heroin in Huntington in 2016, was sentenced today to 21 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Traemone Khalil Miller, 22, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of heroin and fentanyl in federal court in Huntington. United States Attorney Stuart praised the excellent investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
“This is just the latest example of an out-of-state drug thug bringing deadly drugs and violence to Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Enough is enough. I’ve recently announced “Project Huntington,” which is bringing all the federal, state and local law enforcement resources we can muster to lock up every drug dealer we can find.”
On July 27, 2016, a confidential informant arranged to purchase heroin from Miller at the Marcum Terrace apartment complex in Huntington. The informant, accompanied by an undercover agent, traveled to that area where the informant met with Miller and others in an apartment. Miller then distributed what he represented to be heroin to the informant. A forensic chemist later analyzed the substance and confirmed it to be heroin mixed with fentanyl. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid which is anywhere from 25 to 50 times more potent that heroin.
As part of his plea, Miller also admitted that he arranged an additional drug deal with the informant involving heroin mixed with fentanyl on August 3, 2016, and further helped facilitate the informant’s purchase of a firearm on August 25, 2016.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. The sentence was imposed by United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District. This case was also brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Wyoming County Man Pleads Guilty to Insurance Fraud by ArsonRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – A third man pled guilty today in federal court for his roles in a scheme to commit insurance fraud by arson, announced United States Attorney Michael B. Stuart. James Keith Browning, age 54, of Hanover, Wyoming County, pled guilty to a charge of arson to commit wire fraud before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber. United States Attorney Mike Stuart commended the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the West Virginia State Police and the West Virginia Office of the Insurance Commissioner for their joint participation in the investigation.
“Insurance fraud and arson are serious crimes,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Arson risks property and lives and insurance fraud defrauds all of us. We will prosecute those crimes every chance we get.”
In the spring of 2013, Browning, Dudley Bledsoe and James “Punkin” Lester devised a scheme to purchase a house, place it in Browning’s name, obtain insurance on it and burn it to collect the proceeds. The property was located at 9068 Interstate Highway in Ikes Fork, West Virginia. Sometime during the week of August 12-16, 2013, Lester, Bledsoe and Browning manufactured an alibi they could use for when the house was burned. Sometime after the creation of the plan for the alibi, Bledsoe and Browning went to the house in Bledsoe’s vehicle to prepare the house to be burned. The house burned on August 16, 2013, while Browning and Lester were at the West Virginia State Fair. Browning then filed a fraudulent claim with the insurance company for the loss of the house and for items purportedly contained in the house. Ultimately, Browning received $100,000 from the insurance company for the false claim. Browning then divided the proceeds with Bledsoe and Lester. Browning faces 10 years imprisonment when he is sentenced on July 25, 2018.
Bledsoe, age 63, of Hanover, West Virginia, pled guilty on March 14 to related charges and is awaiting sentencing. Ricky Gleason, 54, of Peach Creek, West Virginia, also pled guilty on March 14 to related charges involving a similar scheme connected to a house in Huntington, West Virginia. The sentencing hearings for Bledsoe and Gleason is scheduled for May 30, 2018.
Windel Lester, James Edward Lester, also known as “Punkin,” Georgetta Kenney, and Greg A. Lester are currently facing charges in a 40 count indictment for their respective roles in the scheme. Their trial is set for May 8, 2018, in Bluefield.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Last of Nearly Two Dozen Defendants Plead Guilty for Roles in Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. -- Two men pled guilty today for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Derrick Lamar Staples, 41, of Charleston, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of cocaine base, and more than one kilogram of heroin. Shaun L. Givens, 40, of Beckley, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. Staples and Givens are two of 23 defendants indicted in June 2017 after a comprehensive investigation of drug trafficking in Southern West Virginia. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of several agencies, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Beckley Police Department, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Postal Inspection Service also provided assistance throughout the investigation.
“This investigation dismantled an entire drug trafficking organization responsible for peddling a smorgasbord of dangerous drugs,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Staples and Givens will soon be joining their fellow drug thugs in federal prison,” continued Stuart. “I want to commend my team and our principal partners including the FBI and Raleigh County Task Force as well as other critical partners who assisted throughout this effort. Their efforts saved lives and our streets are safer today as a result of their efforts.”
Derrick Staples, admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy in Raleigh County with multiple participants involving the distribution of cocaine and heroin. Staples admitted to working with James Rodney Staples, Dominic Copney and others to distribute the controlled substances. Staples admitted that other members of the drug trafficking organization would come to his residence in Charleston to pick up materials used to “cut” or prepare heroin for distribution. He also admitted that on June 28, 2017, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at his residence in Kanawha County. During the search, agents found 706.99 grams of a mixture containing heroin and fentanyl, 34.4 grams of cocaine, a kilo press used to prepare drugs for distribution and two firearms. Staples admitted it was his intent to distribute the controlled substances found during the search. Law enforcement officers also seized over $70,000 in cash, jewelry, a car, and real estate that Staples admitted were drug proceeds or purchased with drug proceeds. As part of the plea agreement Staples has agreed to the forfeiture of these items.
Shaun Givens admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he too participated in a drug trafficking organization that distributed cocaine and heroin in and around Raleigh County. Givens admitted that during this time period, he received in excess of 500 grams of cocaine from other members of the drug trafficking organization that he distributed in the Southern District of West Virginia. Givens also admitted that on June 28, 2017, police officers executed a search warrant at his residence in Beckley. During the execution of the search warrant, officers found over seven grams of a mixture containing heroin and fentanyl, a small amount of cocaine base, seven firearms, and $1,127 in cash that defendant admitted were the proceeds of his illegal drug trafficking.
Staples faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on July 24, 2018. Givens faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on July 25, 2018.
Several individuals implicated as a result of this investigation have entered guilty pleas to drug charges and are awaiting sentencing. Two defendants, Cheyenne Fragale and Macon Fragale, brothers from Boomer in Fayette County, have been sentenced by United States District Judge Irene Berger. Cheyenne Fragale received a sentence of 12 years in federal prison while Macon Fragale will serve 16 years and 8 months. Velarian Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of not less than 20 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Detria Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on April 24, 2018. Donald Scalise, of Montgomery, faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 25, 2018. Tiffany Ramsey, of Boomer, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on May 2, 2018. Shawn Akiem Anderson, of Mt. Hope, faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018. Rory White, of Montgomery, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 6, 2018.
Karl Funderburk, of Teays Valley, who previously pled guilty to a gun charge, faces at least 5 years and up to life in federal prison for using and carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Shaun Jones has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin. Jonathan Moore has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. Each faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Corey Larkin previously entered a plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. He also faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 5, 2018.
Esau Burnette, of Beckley, has entered a plea to conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine. He faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018. James Rodney Staples, of Woodbridge, Virginia, faces at least 10 years in federal prison and up to life when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018 after entering a plea to conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of cocaine base, and more than one kilogram of heroin.
George E. Brockman, II, of Montgomery, entered a plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, a quantity of cocaine, and a quantity of oxycodone. Charles Hill, aka “Unc,” of Beckley, entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, and a quantity of cocaine. They both face at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on June 5, 2018.
Jonathan O. Brockman of Kimberly, Fayette County, previously entered a plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, a quantity of fentanyl, a quantity of oxycodone, and a quantity of marijuana for remuneration. David Shaun Coleman of Fayette County entered his plea to conspiracy to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin and a quantity of oxycodone. Rashaun Carter, aka “Show,” of Raleigh County, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, more than 100 grams of heroin, and a quantity of cocaine, and a quantity of fentanyl. Each of these defendants face at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on July 24, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of these prosecutions. The Staples and Givens plea hearings were held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Federal Jury Finds Charleston Meth Dealer Guilty of Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.VA. – A federal jury found Don Lamont Wilkerson, 44, of Charleston, guilty of three counts of distributing methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Wilkerson was convicted following a three day jury trial.
United States Attorney Stuart commended the investigative work of the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT).“We are pleased that our community will have one less drug dealer as a result of this jury verdict,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Wilkerson’s prior felony drug conviction obviously didn’t motivate him to stop being a criminal, so now he gets the privilege of being locked up for a long time.”
Witnesses for the United States testified that Wilkerson sold a total of five ounces of methamphetamine to a confidential informant on three separate occasions in September of 2016. The drug deals took place in retail parking lots in the South Hills and Kanawha City neighborhoods of Charleston. The drugs were subsequently analyzed by the U. S. Customs and Border Patrol’s Savannah laboratory. A forensic chemist testified that the drugs recovered were in fact methamphetamine with a purity level of at least 95%.
Wilkerson, who has a prior felony drug conviction, faces a mandatory minimum of twenty years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 7, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorneys Gabriele Wohl and Steven I. Loew are in charge of the prosecution and tried the case before a federal jury. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the trial.
This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews and USAttyStuart
###
Roane County Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. - A Roane County man was sentenced today to 5 years for a child pornography crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Kenneth Frederick Stier, also known as J D Stier, John Stier, John Davis, and John David Stier, a 30-year old from Spencer, West Virginia, previously pled guilty to distributing child pornography. United States District Court Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Stier was ordered to serve 20 years on federal supervised release after completion of his prison term, and to pay a $40,000.00 fine. He will also be required to register as a sex offender. Stuart commended the excellent work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Parkersburg Police Department, the Roane County Sheriff’s Office, and the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
“Over 600 images of a child were distributed by this predator. It’s disgusting and all like him are true monsters among us,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Stier’s sentence reflects the serious need to keep him away from our kids. Child porn is a crime of violence and every case and every predator will be dealt with seriously and harshly by my office.”
Stier admitted that he installed Kik messenger on his cell pohone. Kik Kik Messenger is an instant messenger application for mobile devices that allows users to send messages, pictures and videos. An undercover law enforcement operation revealed that on December 13, 2016, Stier used his cell phone to distribute two videos of child pornography to other individuals in a Kik chat group session.
Stier also admitted to distributing child pornography videos on another occasion and to possessing over 600 images and videos.
Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by 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
###
Wood County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Wood County man pled guilty today to a federal gun crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Charles “Rusty” Conrad, 26, of Parkersburg, pled guilty to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Conrad is prohibited from possessing any firearms due to a 2012 Wood County felony conviction for fraudulent use of an access device. During his plea hearing, Conrad admitted that on July 8, 2016, he possessed sawed-off .12 gauge shotgun at his Parkersburg residence. United States Attorney Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Parkersburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
“I firmly believe in protecting our gun rights by keeping firearms out of the hands of felons like this guy,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We will work with our law enforcement partners every day of the week to prosecute criminals who violate gun laws.”
Conrad faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 20, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Matt Davis is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking with existing local programs targeting gun crime.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###Three More Defendants Plead Guilty for Roles in Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Defendants are latest to plead guilty out of nearly two dozen indicted after long-term narcotics investigation
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Three men pled guilty today for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jonathan Brockman, 34, of Fayette County, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, a quantity of fentanyl, a quantity of oxycodone, and a quantity of marijuana for remuneration. David Shaun Coleman, 47, of Fayette County, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, and a quantity of oxycodone. Rashaun Carter, aka “Show,” 40, of Raleigh County, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, more than 100 grams of heroin, and a quantity of cocaine, and a quantity of fentanyl. Brockman, Coleman, and Carter are three of 23 defendants indicted in June 2017 after a comprehensive investigation of drug trafficking in Southern West Virginia. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of several agencies, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Beckley Police Department, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Postal Inspection Service also provided assistance throughout the investigation.
“Getting these poison peddlers - Brockman, Coleman, and Carter - off the streets will, pure and simple, save lives. They were pedaling a smorgasbord of opiates – including one of the most dangerous – fentanyl,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “These drug thugs and others like them put kids, families and first responders in jeopardy,” continued Stuart. “We will lock them up every chance we get.”
Jonathan Brockman, admitted that between May 2017 and June 28, 2017, he took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy in Fayette County with multiple participants involving the distribution of heroin, oxycodone, fentanyl, and marijuana. Brockman admitted that he worked with another member of the drug trafficking organization to purchase a kilogram of heroin for the purpose of distributing heroin in and around Fayette County. Brockman further admitted to distributing oxycodone tablets in and around Fayette County. Brockman also admitted that on June 28, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at his residence and on other property. During the search police officers recovered approximately 14 kilograms of marijuana at Brockman’s residence, 200 oxycodone tablets, and 75 tablets that contained a mixture of heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone. Brockman intended to distribute all of the controlled substances recovered. Police officers also recovered over $182,000 in cash, 11 firearms, and a boat and trailer that Brockman admitted had been purchased with drug proceeds. Brockman agreed to forfeit the cash and boat as part of his plea agreement.
David Shaun Coleman admitted that between May 2017 and June 28, 2017, he too participated in a drug trafficking organization that distributed more than 100 grams of heroin and oxycodone, in and around Fayette County. Coleman admitted that during this time period, he received approximately 215 grams of heroin and approximately 700 oxycodone 30 mg tablets from other members of the drug trafficking organization that he intended to distribute in the southern district of West Virginia.
Rashaun Carter, aka “Show,” admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he assisted Velarian Carter, James Rodney Staples, and others in operating a drug trafficking organization that distributed more than 28 grams of cocaine base, or “crack,” more than 100 grams of heroin, and quantities of cocaine and fentanyl, in and around Beckley, Raleigh County, West Virginia. Carter admitted to distributing cocaine base and over 100 grams of heroin to another member of the drug trafficking organization. Carter also admitted to assisting other members of the drug trafficking organization in cooking cocaine into cocaine base, or “crack,” and distributing the same in Raleigh County.
Brockman, Coleman, and Carter each face at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on July 24, 2018.
Several individuals implicated as a result of this investigation have entered guilty pleas to drug charges and are awaiting sentencing. Two defendants, Cheyenne Fragale and Macon Fragale, brothers from Boomer in Fayette County, have been sentenced by United States District Judge Irene Berger. Cheyenne Fragale received a sentence of 12 years in federal prison while Macon Fragale will serve 16 years and 8 months. Velarian Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of not less than 20 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Detria Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on April 24, 2018. Donald Scalise, of Montgomery, faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 25, 2018. Tiffany Ramsey, of Boomer, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on May 2, 2018. Shawn Akiem Anderson, of Mt. Hope, faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018. Rory White, of Montgomery, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 6, 2018.
Karl Funderburk, of Teays Valley, who previously pled guilty to a gun charge, faces at least 5 years and up to life in federal prison for using and carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Shaun Jones has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin. Jonathan Moore has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. Each faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Corey Larkin previously entered a plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. He also faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 5, 2018.
Esau Burnette, of Beckley, has entered a plea to conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine. He faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018. James Rodney Staples, of Woodbridge, Virginia, faces at least 10 years in federal prison and up to life when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018 after entering a plea to conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of cocaine base, and more than one kilogram of heroin.
George E. Brockman, II, of Montgomery, entered a plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, a quantity of cocaine, and a quantity of oxycodone. Charles Hill, aka “Unc,” of Beckley, entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, and a quantity of cocaine. They both face at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on June 5, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of these prosecutions. The Brockman, Coleman, and Carter plea hearings were held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Guatemalan National Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
Defendant had a misdemeanor illegal entry conviction in Arizona and two prior removals
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Roberto Tulul-Ambrocio pled guilty to the felony offense of Reentry of a Removed Alien, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Mr. Tulul-Ambrocio, 29, of Sonola, Guatemala, faces up to 2 years of incarceration, a 250,000 dollar fine, supervised release for one year, and a special assessment when he is sentenced on May 14, 2018 by United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. He also faces removal proceedings at the conclusion of any sentence of incarceration. United States Attorney Mike Stuart praised the work of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“If you’re an illegal and we catch you, we’ll prosecute you and then send you back. If you won’t follow the law to come to the United States, you’ll break our laws when you’re here, you can’t stay,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
On January 16, 2018, Mr. Tulul-Ambrocio was spotted by Immigrations and Customs Enforcement Agents in Hurricane, Putnam County, West Virginia during an investigation of a nearby business location. Approached by two Immigrations and Customs Enforcement Agents, Mr. Tulul-Ambrocio fled on foot and was apprehended after a short chase. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents confirmed that Mr. Tulul-Ambrocio was not in the United States legally and he was taken into custody. Fingerprints taken from the defendant matched him to two prior removals in 2011. The first 2011 prior removal occurred when he was caught near Tucson, Arizona in August and removed from the United States In October of 2011, Mr. Tulul-Ambrocio was found in Nogalez, Arizona and convicted in federal court of the misdemeanor crime of illegal entry. After this conviction, Mr. Tulul-Ambrocio was subsequently removed again from the United States . Mr. Tulul-Ambrocio then reentered the United States a third time without legal permission from the Secretary of Homeland Security. Mr. Tulul-Ambrocio is a citizen of Guatemala.
Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is handling the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###Two More Defendants Plead Guilty for Roles in Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Defendants are latest to plead guilty out of nearly two dozen indicted after long-term narcotics investigation
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Two men pled guilty today for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. George E. Brockman, II, 37, of Montgomery, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, a quantity of cocaine, and a quantity of oxycodone. Charles Hill, aka “Unc,” 54, of Beckley, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, and a quantity of cocaine. Brockman and Hill are two of 23 defendants indicted in June 2017 after a comprehensive investigation of drug trafficking in Southern West Virginia. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of several agencies, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Beckley Police Department, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Postal Inspection Service also provided assistance throughout the investigation.
“Brockman and Hill were part of a large drug trafficking conspiracy that sold a smorgasbord of dangerous drugs,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “My Office, along with our law enforcement partners, are serious about getting drug thugs and drug punks off the streets and away from our families. If you are a drug dealer and distributing opiates, cocaine, marijuana or any other illegal drug, we will aggressively prosecute you in the Southern District of West Virginia and seek the harshest penalties available to lock you up as long as we possibly can.”
George E. Brockman, II admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants involving the distribution of heroin, cocaine, and oxycodone. Brockman admitted that he obtained over 100 grams of heroin from another co-defendant in this case, and intended to distribute the heroin in the southern district of West Virginia. Brockman further admitted that due to quality issues, he requested another co-defendant, James Rodney Staples, to exchange the heroin for cocaine, which he also planned to distribute in the southern district of West Virginia. Brockman also admitted to working with other members of the drug trafficking organization to obtain a kilogram of heroin and approximately 2000 oxycodone tablets to distribute around Fayette County. On June 28, pursuant to searches performed by law enforcement, police officers recovered 84.49 grams of heroin from a truck that Brockman possessed and over $124,000 that Brockman admitted were drug proceeds. $115,000 of that money was found in the trunk of a 2008 Ford Mustang GT500. Brockman has agreed to forfeit the cash as well as the Ford Mustang. As part of the plea defendant further agreed to the forfeiture of a 2016 Chevrolet Corvette.
Charles Hill admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he participated in a drug trafficking organization that distributed cocaine and more than 28 grams of cocaine base, or “crack,” in and around Beckley, Raleigh County, West Virginia. Hill admitted to assisting Velarian Carter, Detria Carter, and Rashaun Carter in distributing ‘crack,” in Raleigh County. During this time he admitted to distributing and possessing with intent to distribute approximately 15 ounces of “crack.” Hill further admitted to meeting with other members of the drug trafficking organization to discuss and plan the manufacturing of cocaine into cocaine base. When officers executed a search warrant at Hill’s residence in Beckley on June 28, 2017, they recovered an additional 47.17 grams of “crack” that Hill intended to distribute in the community of Beckley.
Brockman and Hill each face at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on June 5, 2018.
Several individuals implicated as a result of this investigation have entered guilty pleas to drug charges and are awaiting sentencing. Cheyenne Fragale and Macon Fragale, two brothers from Boomer in Fayette County, have been sentenced by United States District Judge Irene Berger. Cheyenne Fragale received a sentence of 12 years in federal prison while Macon Fragale will serve 16 years and 8 months. Velarian Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of not less than 20 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Detria Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on April 24, 2018. Donald Scalise, of Montgomery, faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 25, 2018. Tiffany Ramsey, of Boomer, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on May 2, 2018. Shawn Akiem Anderson, of Mt. Hope, faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018. Rory White, of Montgomery, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 6, 2018.
Karl Funderburk, of Teays Valley, who previously pled guilty to a gun charge, faces at least 5 years and up to life in federal prison for using and carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Shaun Jones has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin. Jonathan Moore has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. Each faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Corey Larkin previously entered a plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. He also faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 5, 2018.
Esau Burnette, of Beckley, has entered a plea to conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine. He faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018. James Rodney Staples, of Woodbridge, Virginia, faces at least 10 years in federal prison and up to life when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018 after entering a plea to conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of cocaine base, and more than one kilogram of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of these prosecutions. The Brockman and Hill plea hearings were held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Four Defendants Sentenced in Connection with Federal Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Four defendants were sentenced to federal prison today on firearm possession and theft charges, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Justin Keith Branham, of Alum Creek, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm; Joshua Wade Sheets, of Danville, pled guilty to possessing and transferring stolen firearms; and Alisha Marie Esque, of Julian, and Jason Allen Davis, of Van, pled guilty to stealing firearms from a federally licensed firearms dealer. For their crimes, Branham was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison, while Sheets, Esque, and Davis were sentenced to 15, 18, and 12 months, respectively. United States Attorney Mike Stuart praised the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Boone County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Department of Homeland Security and the General Services Administration, Office of Inspector General.
On the night of November 4, 2016, Branham stole a vehicle from a Mine Safety and Health Administration facility located in Madison, West Virginia. He and Esque then drove to a local federally-licensed gun dealership, where Esque served as a lookout while Branham stole approximately 13 pistols, assault rifles, and shotguns. Sheets helped Branham sell the majority of the stolen weapons in Kanawha County, West Virginia. Following that sale, Branham advised Sheets and Davis how they could break into the dealer’s place of business and steal more firearms. Branham then assisted Sheets in stealing a second vehicle from the MSHA facility. On the night of November 5 or 6, 2016, Davis stood watch while Sheets – following Braham’s guidance – entered the dealer’s building and stole 14 guns. Davis fled the scene before the burglary was complete, but Branham arrived and assisted Sheets in transporting the guns to a Cross Lanes motel. Sheets, Branham, and Esque were tracked down and arrested at that motel on November 7, 2016, and Davis was arrested in Danville the following day. Branham is prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law because of a 2013 felony conviction in Kanawha County, West Virginia, for burglary by breaking and entering.
“These gun thieves, who in turn sold the stolen guns, jeopardized the safety of our law abiding citizens and law enforcement. And we’re not going to tolerate that,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We will prosecute criminals who violate our gun laws to the fullest extent of the law in order to protect the public and our Second Amendment rights,” continued Stuart.
“We will aggressively investigate, identify and bring to justice those who endanger the public through illegal firearms trafficking,” said Stuart Lowrey, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Louisville Division. “These defendants disrupted lawful commerce in firearms and then diverted stolen guns into the illicit market without regard for future violent crimes that might be committed. This case reflects the commitment among law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to reduce violent crime in West Virginia.”
Assistant United States Attorney Matt Davis was in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., handed down the sentences.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking with existing local programs targeting gun crime.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Federal & State Law Enforcement Authorities Announce Formation of Special Unit to Fight Public CorruptionRead the Press Release
Citizen Assistance Encouraged
Innovative Corruption “Button” Rolled OutCHARLESTON, W.Va. -- United States Attorney Mike Stuart and representatives from federal and state law enforcement announced today the formation of a Public Integrity Special Investigations Unit to investigate corrupt public officials, the misuse of public funds, campaign and election law violations and suspected criminal activity.
The Public Integrity Special Investigations Unit includes representatives from federal and state agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the United States Postal Inspection Service; the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division; the Inspector General’s Offices of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security; the West Virginia State Police; the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations; and the West Virginia State Auditor’s Office. The West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office will assist in investigating campaign and election law violations.
“Maintaining public integrity is a tremendous priority for me and for the Southern District of West Virginia,” said U.S. Attorney Stuart. “Public corruption is a cancer on our system of government. If it’s not rooted out, the cancer grows. It causes the public to be cynical about the honesty of public officials and public institutions. There is an absolute burden on public officials and persons in a position of public authority to be honest brokers to protect the integrity of public service and the taxpayers’ wallets. Dirty politicians and dirty public officials must and will be held accountable for violations of the public trust,” Stuart continued.
U.S. Attorney Stuart explained that the Special Investigations Unit is focused on rooting out not only corrupt elected officials, but also federal, state and municipal employees who use their position for personal gain at the expense of the public. The Special Investigations Unit will investigate corruption that threatens public resources, the electoral process, and fair economic opportunities for citizens and businesses. The Special Investigations Unit is also charged with uncovering corruption within both public and private institutions that receive and misuse taxpayer dollars.
“The FBI is joining forces with our federal agency partners to combat public corruption and maintain public integrity throughout the southern district,” said Special Agent in Charge Bob Johnson. “The FBI looks forward to participating in this Special Investigative Unit with the USAO and our other federal, local and state law enforcement partners as we work to investigate allegations of federal crimes.”
“The Postal Inspection Service has enjoyed a close relationship with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia through the years working intricate and complex fraud cases that involve the illicit use of the U.S Mails,” said Inspector in Charge Tommy Coke of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service welcomes the formation of the USAO’s Public Integrity Special Investigations Unit, a partnership that presents a tremendous opportunity for agencies to pool resources and expertise to ensure public officials are held accountable.”
“Investigating public corruption remains one of IRS Criminal Investigation’s highest priorities,” said Kimberly Lappin, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service. “Public trust is broken when elected or appointed officials commit crimes – most often triggered by greed and resulting in unlawful personal financial gain.”
“As part of the Public Integrity Special Investigations Unit, HHS OIG will ensure that taxpayer’s dollars are not wasted though public corruption and are instead used for their intended purpose of providing needed care and assistance for the most vulnerable members of our society – including the elderly, poor, and children,” said Maureen Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the Philadelphia Regional Office of the Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General. “Working with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, we will continue to vigorously bring those who steal from these vital public programs to justice.”
“Today’s announcement affirms our dedication to aggressively pursue those that choose to engage in illicit behavior that undermines HUD programs,” said Bertrand Nelson, Special Agent in Charge, Mid-Atlantic Regional Office, HUD Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work steadfastly as a partner of the Public Integrity Special Investigations Unit to bring cases such as these to prosecution.”
“The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs OIG looks forward to joining with our federal and state law enforcement partners as part of the Public Integrity Special Investigations Unit,” said Kim Lampkins, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General, Mid-Atlantic Field Office. “Public officials who break the law or use their positions for personal gain undermine the work of government. The VA OIG is dedicated to investigating fraud, waste, and abuse, and we will contribute our expertise to this team to hold officials accountable for their actions.”
According to U.S. Attorney Stuart, “I am looking forward to working closely not only with my federal partners but also our West Virginia partners. The West Virginia State Auditor’s Office is an invaluable resource for uncovering waste, fraud and abuse and the WV Secretary of State’s Office brings unparalleled expertise in maintaining the integrity of our election system through the investigation and prosecution of those that commit campaign and election fraud.”
“I am honored for the Secretary of State’s Office to have been asked to join this very important effort to address public corruption in West Virginia. I commend U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart for bringing this partnership together to work toward that end,” said Secretary of State Mac Warner.
U.S. Attorney Stuart encouraged citizens to report corrupt activity by either reporting suspected illegal activity by visiting the USAO’s website (https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdwv) and clicking on the “Corruption” button, an innovative new website reporting link, to route email tips to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, or calling 1-800-659-USAO.
“West Virginia’s unfortunate history with corruption is well known, but so is this Office’s history of combating corrupt activity,” said U.S. Attorney Stuart. “Our efforts have been aided by a dogged media and courageous, conscientious citizens, business owners and public officials who have provided information about corrupt activity. We call on public servants, the vast majority of whom are honest brokers, to not look the other way when they see indications of corruption. We cannot overstate the importance of citizen participation in our fight against corruption, and we urge all citizens to assist us in this effort.”
PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONTACT:
U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Deanna Eder
(304) 345-2200
[email protected]Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Ripley Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of a Pipe BombRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Steven Jones, 31, of Ripley, was sentenced to 12 months and a day in federal prison for possession of a pipe bomb. Jones pled guilty in December, admitting that on November 6, 2017, he possessed a pipe bomb he had constructed in his garage. Jones further admitted having built and detonated two additional pipe bombs and posting videos of the explosions on the internet. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the West Virginia State Police, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“A citizen tip to authorities about a pipe bomb prevented what could have been a horrific tragedy. Cases like this depend on the vigilance of citizens bravely willing to step forward to report this kind of dangerous activity,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The horrific events happening in Austin, Texas, are a tragedy we don’t want to happen here in West Virginia. Bombs in the hands of citizens are highly dangerous, reckless and illegal. My Office is committed to strengthening the relationship between the public and law enforcement so that we can keep dangerous criminals like this bomb maker behind bars.”
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence in federal court in Charleston. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks prosecuted the case.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
California Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Steve Jones, 35, from Riverside, California, pled guilty today before United States District Court Judge Joseph R. Goodwin to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. At the hearing, Jones admitted to obtaining pound quantity packages of methamphetamine on at least two occasions in 2017 that had been shipped from California to West Virginia and delivering them to another individual who had arranged their shipment. Once Jones delivered the packages he and others he was involved in distributing methamphetamine with in the Kanawha Valley were supplied large amounts of methamphetamine to sell. The proceeds were then returned to the individual who had arranged the shipments. Jones further admitted to having been involved in the distribution of between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of pure methamphetamine. Jones faces from 10 years to life imprisonment and a $10,000,000.00 fine when he is sentenced on June 14, 2018. Stuart praised the joint investigation conducted by MDENT, DEA and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department.
“Meth dealers like Steve Jones who come to our state from California are not welcome here. It is my sincere hope that since Mr. Jones decided to distribute large amounts of poison to our people, he will spend every day of the rest of his life behind bars,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. These out-of-state drug traffickers are a disgrace to humanity and a threat to honest law abiding citizens in our communities,” continued Stuart.
This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Project HuntingtonRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart issued the following statement this morning during a press conference held at the Sidney L. Christie Federal Building in Huntington:
Remarks as prepared for delivery
“Good morning.
Attorney General Sessions and this Administration is wholly committed to working with our federal, state and local partners to ensure the safety of our streets, our families and our children. Frankly, we will no longer tolerate drug dealers, drug traffickers, violent criminals, or illegal guns on the streets of the City of Huntington.
Our goal is simple- To make Huntington the “Safest City in America.”
In what we are calling, “PROJECT HUNTINGTON”, I have ordered a surge of federal prosecutors in Huntington – doubling the number of prosecutors and, within weeks, tripling our office and we will add even more prosecutors as circumstances require. My team is led by Assistant United States Attorney Monica Coleman, a veteran prosecutor with a record of aggressive, fearless prosecution and she will lead a team wholly dedicated to this effort. The instructions to my team cannot be more clear – “Put violent criminals and bad guys behind bars, off our streets, and away from the public as long as possible.”
I want to personally thank Mayor Williams, Huntington Interim Police Chief Dial, and Prosecutor Hammers for their partnership in this effort. “PROJECT HUNTINGTON” would not be possible without their commitment and support.
In addition to Mayor Williams, Chief Dial, and Prosecutor Hammers, with me today are:
Supervisory Special Agent Wes Quigley, FBI
Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Gourley, DEA
Resident Agent in Charge Adam Black, ATF
Sharon Frazier, Cabell County Assistant Prosecutor
Monica Coleman, Assistant United States Attorney
With the assistance and commitment of our federal partners, “PROJECT HUNTINGTON” and a surge of prosecution ensures that every federal resource possible will be dedicated to working with our state and local partners to “Take Back These Streets” from those that bring havoc, chaos and despair to the Greater Huntington area.
“PROJECT HUNTINGTON” ensures that Huntington’s “greatest days” lay ahead.
Thank you.”
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Former Lumber Executive Sentenced for Embezzling over $800,000Read the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A former Chief Financial Officer for a Beckley lumber company who embezzled over $800,000 was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison and ordered to pay full restitution, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. James Matthew Miller, 43, previously pled guilty to two counts of wire fraud on December 6, 2017. Stuart praised the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“Unscrupulous employees – be that rank and file workers or top executives -- can cause substantial financial harm to their employers. The prosecution of these crimes is vital to the success of West Virginia businesses,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
Miller formerly worked as an executive for a lumber company until September 2013. In his role as Chief Financial Officer, his responsibilities included oversight of log inventories from vendors. From approximately December 31, 2007, to August 30, 2013, Miller admitted that he issued payments to a sham vendor, a close friend of Miller’s, and falsely inflated log inventories to conceal the fraud. He created a fictitious log vendor that has never hauled or delivered logs to the lumber company. Miller also admitted that he created false payment requests and then drafted and signed checks from the lumber company to the fake vendor. The fictitious vendor cashed the checks or deposited the checks in his bank account, then provided Miller with the money, minus a small amount Miller permitted the vendor to keep. During the course of the fraud, Miller was responsible for 160 checks totaling $822,396.63 from the company to the sham vendor. Miller admitted that he concealed the fraud and committed wire fraud by submitting company reports based on artificially inflated log inventories, and then emailed the reports to a lumber mill manager in Tennessee and a BB&T in Georgia.
Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald was in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger handed down the sentence.
###
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
Fayette County Brothers Sentenced to Federal Prison for Roles in Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Two Fayette County brothers were sentenced to federal prison today on drug charges, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Cheyenne Fragale, 30, and Macon Fragale, 34, both from Boomer, previously entered guilty pleas to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine, a quantity of oxycodone, and a quantity of heroin. Cheyenne Fragale was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison, while Macon Fragale was determined to be a career offender and was sentenced to 200 months in federal prison. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Beckley Police Department on these cases.
U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of several agencies, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Beckley Police Department, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Postal Inspection Service also provided assistance throughout the investigation.
“Prison time awaits those who peddle poison in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Stuart. “These two brothers are not a good example for the model family. Their smorgasbord of drug dealing from meth, to pills to heroin has one spending the next 12 years behind bars and the other even longer. The message is, “Don’t sell drugs.””
Cheyenne and Macon Fragale previously admitted that between May 2017 and June 28, 2017, they took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants. They also admitted that during the course of the conspiracy, they distributed over 2,000 thirty mg tablets of oxycodone and over 500 grams of methamphetamine, as well as heroin. They additionally admitted that they sold the drugs in and around Fayette County. On June 28, 2017, law enforcement executed search warrants at several locations associated with the conspiracy. During the execution of the search warrants, officers seized over 300 grams of crystal methamphetamine, as well as heroin, fentanyl, and over $29,000 in cash. The methamphetamine was later laboratory tested and confirmed to be 94% pure. Cheyenne Fragale admitted that the cash was proceeds from drug dealing. As part of their plea agreements, Cheyenne and Macon Fragale both admitted to all the drug trafficking activity charged in the indictment.
Several individuals implicated as a result of this investigation have entered guilty pleas to drug charges and are awaiting sentencing. Velarian Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of not less than 20 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Detria Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on April 24, 2018. Donald Scalise, of Montgomery, faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 25, 2018. Tiffany Ramsey, of Boomer, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on May 2, 2018. Shawn Akiem Anderson, of Mt. Hope, faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018. Rory White, of Montgomery, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 6, 2018.
Karl Funderburk, of Teays Valley, who previously pled guilty to a gun charge, faces at least 5 years and up to life in federal prison for using and carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Shaun Jones of Beckley has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin. Jonathan Moore, also of Beckley, has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. Each faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Corey Larkin, of Beckley, previously entered a plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. He also faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 5, 2018.
Esau Burnette, of Beckley, has entered a plea to conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine. He faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018. James Rodney Staples, of Woodbridge, Virginia, faces at least 10 years in federal prison and up to life when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018 after entering a plea to conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of cocaine base, and more than one kilogram of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess handled the prosecutions. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentences.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
###
West Virginia Business Owner Sentenced to Prison for Failing to Pay Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
A Fayette County, West Virginia, business owner was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for failing to pay over employment taxes, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Michael B. Stuart for the Southern District of West Virginia.
According to documents and information provided to the court, from 2008 through 2012, Steve Lopez, 68, owned and operated Ready Transport Services (RTS), a transportation business that mainly provided taxi services. From 2009 through 2012 he also owned RTS Ice Cream, Coffee and Candy Shop. Both businesses were located in Montgomery, West Virginia. Lopez was responsible for collecting and paying over to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) social security, Medicare, and income taxes withheld from his employees’ wages. He also was responsible for paying the employer’s share of his employees’ social security and Medicare taxes. Lopez admitted that he did not pay approximately $393,851 in employment taxes due to the IRS, including funds he withheld from his employees’ paychecks as well as money he owed as their employer.
In addition to the term of prison imposed, U.S. District Court Judge John T. Copenhaver Jr. ordered Lopez to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $393,851 in restitution to the IRS.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Stuart commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Tax Division Trial Attorneys Mara Strier and Alexander Effendi, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Two Plead Guilty to Insurance Fraud by ArsonRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Two men pled guilty today in federal court for their respective roles in a scheme to commit insurance fraud by arson, announced United States Attorney Michael B. Stuart. Dudley Bledsoe, age 63, of Hanover, Wyoming County, and Ricky Dwayne Gleason, age 54, of Peach Creek, Logan County, both pleaded guilty to a charge of unlawful monetary transactions before Senior District Court Judge David A. Faber in Bluefield. United States Attorney Mike Stuart commended the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the West Virginia State Police and the West Virginia Office of the Insurance Commissioner.
“As West Virginia citizens, we all ultimately pay the price for this type of crime. That is why, regardless of the amount of monetary loss, we will continue to aggressively prosecute individuals who perpetrate fraudulent schemes,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
In the spring of 2012, Bledsoe, with the assistance of James Edward Lester, also known as “Punkin,” and others, purchased a house in Matoaka, Mercer County. The purchase price was approximately $38,000. They insured the property for over $300,000 and set fire to the house in December of 2012 using cardboard and unscented candle oil. Bledsoe, with the help of others, then filed false claims for the house and its contents. Bledsoe collected the proceeds and divided the proceeds with others involved in the scheme.
In May of 2013, Gleason purchased a house in his name on Norwood Road in Huntington, West Virginia for $100,000 and insured it for over $400,000. Funds for the purchase were provided by others involved in the scheme. The next month, Gleason and others staged the house to be burned using cardboard and unscented candle oil. While Gleason was out of town in order to concoct an alibi, others connected with the scheme set fire to the house. Gleason filed a claim for the loss of the house as well as false contents lists with the insurance company and collected over $280,000 in insurance proceeds. The proceeds were divided with others in the scheme.
Bledsoe and Gleason each face up to 10 years imprisonment and up to a $250,000 fine when they are sentenced on May 30, 2018. Windel Lester, James Edward Lester, also known as “Punkin,” Georgetta Kenney, Greg A. Lester and James Keith Browning are currently facing charges in a 40 count indictment for their respective roles in the scheme. Their trial is set for May 8, 2018, in Bluefield.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Two More Defendants Plead Guilty for Roles in Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Two men pled guilty today for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. James Rodney Staples, 39, of Woodbridge, VA, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 5 kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of cocaine base, and more than one kilogram of heroin. Esau Burnette, 38, of Beckley, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, and a quantity of cocaine. Staples and Burnette are two of 23 defendants indicted in June 2017 after a comprehensive investigation of drug trafficking in Southern West Virginia.
U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of several agencies, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Beckley Police Department, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Postal Inspection Service also provided assistance throughout the investigation.
“A drug trafficking network has been dismantled as a result of this long-term, cooperative investigation. Along with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners we will continue to take down networks of traffickers pedaling dangerous drugs in our communities,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
James Rodney Staples admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants involving the distribution of cocaine, cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and heroin. Staples admitted that Velarian Carter, another co-defendant in this case, requested his help in operating the drug trafficking organization while Carter was incarcerated on other drug charges. Staples admitted he paid other members to assist him in distributing the controlled substances and to collect money acquired through the illegal drug trafficking. As part of the agreement, Staples agreed to the forfeiture of $50,000, which represented proceeds of his illegal drug trafficking activity.
Esau Burnette admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he participated in a drug trafficking organization that distributed cocaine and more than 28 grams of cocaine base, or “crack,” in and around Beckley, Raleigh County, West Virginia. Burnette admitted to assisting in manufacturing cocaine into “crack.” During this time he admitted to distributing and possessing with intent to distribute approximately 20 ounces of cocaine. Burnette further admitted that on June 28, 2017, police officers executed a search warrant at his residence in Beckley. Officers found $2,797 in cash, and a quantity of “crack.” Burnette admitted that the cash was obtained through the illegal drug trafficking activity and has agreed to forfeit the cash to the United States.
Staples faces at least 10 years and up to life, and Burnette faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison, when they are sentenced on May 30, 2018.
Several individuals implicated as a result of this investigation have entered guilty pleas to drug charges and are awaiting sentencing. Cheyenne Fragale and Macon Fragale, two brothers from Boomer in Fayette County, face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison when they are sentenced on March 14, 2018. Velarian Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of not less than 20 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Detria Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on April 24, 2018. Donald Scalise, of Montgomery, faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 25, 2018. Tiffany Ramsey, of Boomer, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on May 2, 2018. Shawn Akiem Anderson, of Mt. Hope, faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018. Rory White, of Montgomery, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 6, 2018.
Karl Funderburk, of Teays Valley, who previously pled guilty to a gun charge, faces at least 5 years and up to life in federal prison for using and carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Shaun Jones has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin. Jonathan Moore has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. Each faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Corey Larkin previously entered a plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. He also faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 5, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of these prosecutions. The Staples and Burnette plea hearings were held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
Princeton Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. - A Princeton man pleaded guilty today to federal drug crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jerome Jones, 53, of Princeton, West Virginia, entered his guilty plea to 7 counts distribution of a quantity of cocaine base, 2 counts possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base, and 1 count distribution of a quantity of cocaine.
Stuart praised the work of the West Virginia State Police. “We are committed to working with the fine men and women of the West Virginia State Police in their efforts to make West Virginia communities safer places to live, work and play,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
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 the police. Jones further admitted that on June 1, 2016 , and then again on December 20, 2017 , the West Virginia State Police executed a search warrant and at his residence and seized quantities of cocaine and cocaine base.
Jones faces up to 20 years in federal prison on each county when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018. United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the plea hearing.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Media AdvisoryRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart will hold a brief press conference at 9:00am on Thursday, March 15, 2018 to discuss collaborative efforts to address the opioid scourge and violent crime in the City of Huntington.
WHO: Mike Stuart, United States Attorney, SDWV
Mayor Steve Williams, City of Huntington
Interim Police Chief Hank Dial, Huntington Police Department
Supervisory Special Agent Wes Quigley, FBI
Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Gourley, DEA
Resident Agent in Charge Adam Black, ATF
Corky Hammers, Cabell County Prosecuting Attorney
Sharon Frazier, Cabell County Assistant Prosecutor
WHAT: Press Conference
WHEN: Thursday, March 15, 2018 @ 9:00am
WHERE: Sidney L. Christie Federal Building
845 Fifth Avenue
Huntington, WV 25701
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
U.S. Attorney Announces 98-Count Superseding Indictment Against Owners, Managers and Physicians Associated with HOPE Clinic and Related CompanyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today a federal grand jury returned a 98-count superseding indictment against the owners, managers and physicians associated with HOPE Clinic. The superseding indictment added 29 counts of distributing and dispensing controlled substances outside the usual course of professional practice and not for medically legitimate purposes to six different customers on various occasions from 2013 through 2015 by Sanjay Mehta, D.O., Michael T. Moran, M.D., Mark Clarkson, D.O., Vernon Stanley, M.D., Brian Gullett, D.O., William Earley, D.O., Paul W. Burke, Jr., D.O., and Rowsell Tempest Lowry, M.D. Among the 29 counts added, two counts charge Joshua Radcliffe, the son of PPPFD owner, Mark T. Radcliffe, with aiding, abetting, counseling, commanding and procuring, Sanjay Mehta, D.O., with the distribution of controlled substances on two separate occasions to two separate customers.
“The additional 29 charges were necessary as a result of the facts underlying this terrible case,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart. “A physician’s first oath is to ‘do no harm,’ but sadly when physicians do not uphold this oath, a lot of irrevocable harm is done.”
In addition, the superseding indictment charges all defendants with a conspiracy to distribute and dispense controlled substances outside the usual course of professional practice and not for medically legitimate purposes, and charges defendants Blume and Mark Radcliffe with maintaining drug-involved premises in Beckley, Beaver and Charleston. Included in the superseding indictment are 91 counts charging several physicians with distribution of controlled substances not for legitimate medical purposes and outside the usual course of professional practice. Sanjay Mehta, D.O., a former physician at the Beckley and Beaver HOPE Clinic locations, is also charged with two counts of distribution of controlled substances causing death. Ten of the defendants are charged with conspiracy to launder drug proceeds by paying bonuses to HOPE Clinic physicians and employees of Patients, Physicians, and Pharmacists Fighting Diversion, Inc. (PPPFD), to encourage continued prescribing of Schedule II narcotics to customers.
The investigation was conducted by the following agencies:
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, OIG
- Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations
- Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations (OCI)
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Drug Enforcement Administration
- West Virginia State Police
- Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT)
- Beckley Police Department
- Kentucky State Police
- Harrison County (KY) Sheriff’s Department
- Appalachia HIDTA
The additional charges announced today are part of the on-going effort by the United States Attorney’s Office to aggressively target medical professionals involved in the unlawful distribution of opioids and other dangerous controlled substances.
If convicted on all charges as alleged in the indictment, Dr. Blume and Mark Radcliffe face up to 100 years; Joshua Radcliffe faces up to 60 years; Teresa Emerson faces up to 20 years; Michael Moran faces up to 80 years; Sanjay Mehta faces a forty year mandatory minimum sentence up to life imprisonment; Vernon Stanley faces up to 300 years; Brian Gullett faces up to 380 years; Mark Clarkson faces up to 100 years; William Earley faces up to 300 years; Paul Burke faces up to 200 years; and Roswell Tempest Lowry faces up to 140 years.
This case is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.
Please note: An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Three More Defendants Plead Guilty for Roles in Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Three Beckley men pled guilty today for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Shaun A. Jones, 40, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin. Corey D. Larkin, 38, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. Jonathan Vincent Moore, 34, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. Jones, Larkin, and Moore are three of 23 defendants indicted in June 2017 after a comprehensive investigation of drug trafficking in Southern West Virginia.
U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of several agencies, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Beckley Police Department, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Postal Inspection Service also provided assistance throughout the investigation.
“This case shows how united and determined we are in fighting the drug scourge,” said U.S. Attorney Stuart. “With 23 defendants charged, the results speak for themselves. Drug dealers had better take notice that all levels of law enforcement – federal, state, and local – are working together to make sure that drug crime results in hard time.”
Shaun Jones admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants involving the distribution of cocaine and heroin. Jones admitted to working with James Rodney Staples and others to distribute cocaine and heroin in and around Raleigh County. Jones also admitted that on June 28, 2017, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at his residence. During the search officers found over 200 grams of heroin, a quantity of methamphetamine, a quantity of cocaine, and over $50,000 in cash. Jones admitted he intended to distribute the controlled substances found in his house. He also agreed to forfeit the cash as it represented the proceeds of his illegal drug trafficking activity.
Corey D. Larkin admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he participated in a drug trafficking organization that distributed cocaine and heroin in and around Beckley, Raleigh County, West Virginia. During this time he admitted to distributing approximately one kilogram of cocaine. Larkin also admitted that on June 14, 2017, police officers made a traffic stop on a car he was driving. During the stop, officers seized 133.97 grams of a mixture containing heroin and fentanyl, and $2,983 in cash. Larkin further admitted that on June 28, 2017, police officers executed a search warrant at his residence in Beckley. Officers found over $8,000 in cash, approximately 41 grams of cocaine, and a kilo press, often used to compress powder cocaine into “bricks.” Larkin has agreed to forfeit all the cash seized.
Jonathan Vincent Moore also admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he took part in the drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants involving the distribution of cocaine and heroin. He further admitted that on April 26, 2017, the Drug Enforcement Administration, with the assistance of a confidential informant, made a controlled purchase of approximately one ounce of cocaine from Moore at his residence in Beckley. He also admitted that on June 28, 2017, a search warrant was executed at his residence. During the search, officers found over 1,500 grams of cocaine, eight firearms, and over $90,000 in cash. He agreed to forfeit the firearms and over $90,000 in cash that was obtained through the illegal drug trafficking.
Jones, Larkin, and Moore each face at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced. Jones and Moore are scheduled for sentencing on May 29, 2018. Larkin’s sentencing is scheduled for June 5, 2018.
Several individuals implicated as a result of this investigation have entered guilty pleas to drug charges and are awaiting sentencing. Cheyenne Fragale and Macon Fragale, two brothers from Boomer in Fayette County, face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison when they are sentenced on March 14, 2018. Velarian Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of not less than 20 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Detria Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on April 24, 2018. Donald Scalise, of Montgomery, faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 25, 2018. Tiffany Ramsey, of Boomer, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on May 2, 2018. Shawn Akiem Anderson, of Mt. Hope, faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018. Rory White, of Montgomery, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 6, 2018.
Karl Funderburk, of Teays Valley, who previously pled guilty to a gun charge, faces at least 5 years and up to life in federal prison for using and carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of these prosecutions. The Jones, Larkin, and Moore plea hearings were held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###Charlotte Man Sentenced on Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Timothy Fields, 40, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for distribution of hydromorphone. Fields pled guilty in November, admitting that on January 18, 2017, he distributed a quantity of hydromorphone to a confidential informant in Bluefield. He also admitted that he distributed hydromorphone and cocaine base on other occasions, and that he manufactured a quantity of cocaine base, all as charged in the indictment. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.
“The illegal trafficking of prescription opioids and other dangerous drugs has devastated our southernmost counties. My Office will continue to fight for West Virginia families struggling with opioid addiction by aggressively prosecuting those responsible for distributing them throughout our communities,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence in federal court in Bluefield. The case was investigated under the Bluefield Pill Initiative, part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers in communities across the Southern District. Assistant United States Attorney John File prosecuted the case.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###