Southern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Fayette County woman pleads guilty for role in federal drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Fayette County woman pleaded guilty today for her role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Tiffany D. Ramsey, 27, of Boomer, entered her guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, a quantity of heroin, and a quantity of oxycodone. Ramsey is one 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. The investigation was 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 provided assistance throughout the investigation.
Ramsey admitted that between May 2017 and June 28, 2017, she took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants. During this time period, Ramsey admitted to working with Cheyenne Fragale and others to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and oxycodone in and around Fayette County. Ramsey admitted that she and Cheyenne Fragale sold the controlled substances from their house near Boomer. Ramsey also admitted that on June 28, 2017, law enforcement officers executed search warrants at various locations related to this drug trafficking conspiracy. During the searches, officers seized over 300 grams of crystal methamphetamine, as well as heroin, fentanyl, and over $29,000 in cash. The methamphetamine was later analyzed and confirmed to be 94% pure.
Ramsey faces at least five and up to 40 years federal prison when she is sentenced on May 2, 2018.
Other individuals implicated as a result of this drug investigation have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Cheyenne Fragale and Macon Fragale, two brothers from Boomer in Fayette County, previously pleaded guilty 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. They both face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison when they are sentenced on March 14, 2018. Donald Scalise, of Montgomery, previously entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute a quantity of oxycodone. Scalise faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 25, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, previously entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. He 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, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. She faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in federal prision when she is sentenced on April 24, 2018. Velarian Carter, the brother of Detria Carter, previously entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of crack, and more than 100 grams of heroin. He 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of these prosecutions. The Ramsey plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.
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.
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Wood County man sentenced to federal prison for possession of stolen mailRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Wood County man who stole mail in November 2016 was sentenced yesterday to six months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Richard Thomas Morris, Jr., 38, of Washington, previously pleaded guilty to possession of stolen mail. He was also ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and $50 in restitution. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the efforts of the United States Postal Inspection Service and the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, for the investigation.
Morris was a relief driver for a United States Postal Service contractor whose job it was to collect outgoing mail from post offices along a rural route between Ravenswood and Parkersburg. On November 17, 2016, Morris was stopped at the Belleville Post Office by law enforcement officials with the United States Postal Inspection Service. Morris consented to a search of the truck he was driving, and the search turned up a piece of mail addressed to a home in St. Mary’s. The mail had been opened and contained a greeting card. Morris had stolen the greeting card, as well as $50.00 in cash that had been put inside the card by the sender.
Assistant United States Attorneys Eumi L. Choi and R. Gregory McVey handled the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.
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U.S. Attorney's Office announces Lisa Johnston as First Assistant United States AttorneyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia announced today that Lisa G. Johnston has been named First Assistant United States Attorney.
“Lisa Johnston was not given this opportunity – she earned it,” said United States Attorney Stuart. “She is tough on crime and she knows how to lead a team, which is why she will be advising me every step of the way as we crack down on drug trafficking, corruption, and predators, and ensure that public safety is our driving goal.”
Johnston’s experience includes, but is not limited to:
- 30 years working as an Assistant United States Attorney in West Virginia U.S. Attorney’s Offices in both the Northern and Southern Districts. She began working in the Southern District in 2006 and is extremely familiar with the office, its personnel, and its operations;
- Serves as the Project Safe Childhood Coordinator for the Southern District of West Virginia and provides guidance to other attorneys in the office who handle child pornography cases. She is considered to be very knowledgeable in this area and is often contacted by state prosecutors seeking her advice in these types of cases;
- Established, developed and led the Crimes Against Children Task Force in the Northern District of West Virginia, which was comprised of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, as well as victim advocate groups; and
- Was detailed to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, where she provided guidance to agents and inspectors.
“I am excited by this step – one of many I am taking to address the needs of law enforcement in this district,” said U.S. Attorney Stuart. “I have a sense of urgency in my new role as I fight to protect and defend the people of West Virginia. Lisa Johnston shares my vision and sense of urgency to take bold action to deliver results for the people of our district. I have great confidence in Lisa in helping spearhead my team.”
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U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart issues statement on the passing of Huntington Police Chief Joe CiccarelliRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of West Virginia is filled with heavy hearts at the passing of our friend and colleague, Huntington Police Chief Joe Ciccarelli.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Huntington Police Chief Joe Ciccarelli. He spent his distinguished public service career tirelessly working to keep our communities safe,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Chief Ciccarelli was a hero and a champion of law enforcement. He exemplified the leadership and commitment to justice that all of us should strive to achieve. His passing is a loss to everyone who was privileged enough to have known and worked with him, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
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Two defendants appear in federal court in Huntington on drug chargesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two defendants appeared in federal court in Huntington yesterday for drug crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Lurduea Appling, 37, of Detroit, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of oxycodone, and was sentenced to two years and 10 months in federal prison. In a separate prosecution, Joseph Mitchell, 44, of Huntington, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin.
U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the West Virginia State Police Violent Crime and Drug Task Force in the Appling case. He also commended the Marshall University Office of Public Safety and the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force for the investigation of Mitchell.
On March 20, 2017, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the West Virginia State Police Violent Crime and Drug Task Force used a confidential informant to make a controlled buy of oxycodone from Appling. The drug deal took place at 1342 15th Street in Huntington. Appling provided the informant with the oxycodone in exchange for $3,750 in cash. As part of the plea agreement, Appling admitted to all the drug trafficking activity charged in the indictment.
In a separate prosecution, on August 2, 2017, an officer with the Marshall University Office of Public Safety conducted a traffic stop of Mitchell on the 500 block of 20th Street in Huntington. Upon searching the vehicle, the officer discovered approximately 11.5 grams of suspected heroin and a digital scale. Mitchell admitted that he intended to sell the heroin. As part of the plea agreement, Mitchell also admitted to all the other drug trafficking activity charged in the indictment. Mitchell faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 23, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor is in charge of these prosecutions. The hearings were held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
These cases are 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.
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Two Parkersburg men plead guilty to federal heroin conspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two Parkersburg men pleaded guilty today to a federal heroin conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Joseph Reeder-Shaw, 32, and Bernard Spann, 34, entered their guilty pleas to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the collaborative investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Parkersburg Drug Task Force, the West Virginia State Police, the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, and the Police Departments of the cities of Parkersburg, Vienna, and Williamstown.
Reeder-Shaw and Spann admitted to their respective involvement with several other individuals in distributing heroin at various locations throughout the Parkersburg area. In addition, Reeder-Shaw admitted to arranging sales of heroin to a confidential informant working with the Parkersburg Drug Task Force and the FBI on numerous occasions between November 2016 and November 2017. Reeder-Shaw further admitted involvement in the distribution of between one and three kilograms of heroin, while Spann, who did not join Reeder-Shaw and others until October 2017, admitted to distributing between 100 and 400 grams of heroin.
Both Reeder-Shaw and Spann face at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on April 19, 2018.
Debra Martin, a codefendant involved in the same conspiracy, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and also faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on April 5, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney John Frail is in charge of these prosecutions. The plea hearings were held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
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.
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Three defendants plead guilty in federal court in CharlestonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Three defendants pleaded guilty today in federal court in Charleston, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Roger Lee Lemons, 23, of Charlotte, entered his guilty plea to distribution of hydromorphone. In a separate prosecution, Laron Safford, 41, of Bluefield, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. In another separate prosecution, Tomas Mateo, 41, entered his guilty plea to possession of a weapon by a federal inmate.
U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force for the investigations of Lemons and Safford. He also commended the Federal Bureau of Prisons for the investigation of Mateo.
Lemons admitted that on October 31, 2014, he sold hydromorphone pills to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place in Princeton. Lemons further admitted that he sold hydromorphone pills on three other occasions. Lemons faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 1, 2018.
In a separate prosecution, Safford admitted that on September 14, 2017, he possessed two pistols at his residence in Bluefield. Safford was prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law because of a 1998 felony drug conviction in McDowell County and a 2004 felony drug conviction in Iredell County, North Carolina. Safford also admitted that he sold cocaine to a confidential informant working with law enforcement on four occasions in September 2017. Safford faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 1, 2018.
In another separate prosecution, Mateo, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution at McDowell, admitted that on June 26, 2017, he possessed a handcrafted weapon commonly known as a “shank” in his shoe. The weapon was a piece of plastic, approximately six inches in length and sharpened to a point at one end, with a handle made of thread and tape. Mateo faces up to five years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 1, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney John File is responsible for these prosecutions. The plea hearings were held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
The Safford case was brought 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. The Lemons and Safford 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.
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Michigan felon pleads guilty to federal gun crimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Michigan man pleaded guilty yesterday to a federal gun charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Quadralon Mayberry-Figures, 20, of Wyoming, Michigan, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hurricane Police Department for the investigation.
On February 17, 2017, an officer with the Hurricane Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 64. Mayberry-Figures was a passenger in the vehicle. During a search, the officer located a Diamond Back Arms 9mm pistol in his right front pocket. Mayberry-Figures was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of multiple felony convictions, including a 2016 Michigan conviction for carrying a concealed weapon.
Mayberry-Figures faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 23, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
This case was brought 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.
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Former nursing home employee sentenced to federal prison for embezzling over $80,000Read the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A former nursing home employee who embezzled over $80,000 was sentenced today to a year and a month in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Veneford Blankenship, 35, of Bluefield, previously pleaded guilty to mail fraud. She was also ordered to pay $81,486.15 in restitution. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of the FBI and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Blankenship worked at a nursing home in Princeton as the Business Office Supervisor where she oversaw the financial operations. Her duties included sending patient invoices, recording deposits in the nursing home’s accounting program, and depositing checks into the nursing home’s operations account. The nursing home also had another bank account, which allowed residents to collect funds that were occasionally spent on dinner, outings, and small events for residents. While the nursing home’s parent company received bank statements for its operations account, the parent company did not receive any statements for the other bank account.
Blankenship admitted that in June 2015, she began secretly diverting residents’ payment checks. Instead of depositing these checks into the operations account, she deposited the checks into the other bank account. She then wrote checks to herself from the other account, forging the signatures of the two individuals with signature authority. She hid her crime by writing false memos on the checks and indicating that the withdrawals were for legitimate nursing home purposes, when in reality she took the money for herself. She also falsely updated the nursing home’s accounting program to indicate that the residents paid invoices and that the nursing home received funds that she had stolen.
Assistant United States Attorney Meredith George Thomas is in charge of the prosecution. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence.
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Tennessee felon pleads guilty to federal gun crimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Tennessee felon pleaded guilty today to a federal gun charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Marvin Dunigan, 46, of Johnson City, entered his guilty plea 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, and the Beckley Police Department.
Dunigan admitted that on August 16, 2016, he possessed a Cobra Model C32, .32 caliber firearm in Beckley. Dunigan was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2010 conviction in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Dunigan faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 2, 2018.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the plea hearing.
This case was brought 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.
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Federal inmates plead guilty to weapons chargesRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Two inmates who possessed weapons at the Federal Correctional Institution at Beckley pleaded guilty today, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Daqone Lance, 23, pleaded guilty to possession of a weapon by an inmate. In a separate prosecution, Michael Camp, 29, entered his guilty plea to the same federal weapons charge. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the Federal Bureau of Prisons for their investigative work on these cases.
Lance admitted that on June 3, 2017, a Bureau of Prisons staff member located an object in the waist band of his pants. The object was a handcrafted weapon consisting of a sock tied to a combination lock.
In a separate prosecution, Camp admitted that on July 17, 2017, a Bureau of Prisons staff member discovered an object in Camp’s boot. The object was a handcrafted weapon commonly referred to as a “shank.” The shank was a toothbrush about six inches long and sharpened to a point on one end.
Lance and Camp each face up to five years in federal prison when they are sentenced on April 25, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney John File is handling these prosecutions. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the plea hearings.
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Fayette County man pleads guilty for role in federal drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Fayette County man pleaded guilty today for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Donald L. Scalise, 60, of Montgomery, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone. Scalise is one 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. The investigation was 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 provided assistance throughout the investigation.
Scalise admitted that between May 2017 and June 28, 2017, he took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants. During this time period, Scalise admitted to working with Cheyenne Fragale and others to obtain oxycodone pills to distribute in and around Fayette County. Scalise admitted that he purchased between 30 and 100 pills at a time, though some of the pills were for personal use. He further admitted to distributing or possessing with intent to distribute approximately 850 oxycodone 30 mg tablets. As part of the plea agreement, Scalise agreed to forfeit $4,193, the illegal proceeds of his drug trafficking activity, and seven firearms. Law enforcement seized the cash and firearms from his residence after his arrest on June 28, 2017. Scalise admitted that the drug trafficking organization was responsible for distributing not only oxycodone, but also methamphetamine and heroin in and around Fayette County.
Scalise faces up to 20 years federal prison when he is sentenced on April 25, 2018.
Other individuals implicated as a result of this drug investigation have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Cheyenne Fragale and Macon Fragale, two brothers from Boomer in Fayette County, previously pleaded guilty 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. They both face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison when they are sentenced on March 14, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, previously entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. He 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, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. She faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in federal prision when she is sentenced on April 24, 2018. Velarian Carter, the brother of Detria Carter, previously entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of crack, and more than 100 grams of heroin. He 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of these prosecutions. The Scalise plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.
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.
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U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart to meet with officials at Lily's Place in HuntingtonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart will visit Lily’s Place tomorrow for a tour of the facility and to meet with officials administering the specialized care provided by this organization. Lily’s Place provides treatment for newborns suffering from Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). NAS is a group of problems that occurs in a newborn after being exposed to illegal drugs and/or the misuse of prescription drugs while in the mother’s womb. Lily’s Place offers observational, therapeutic, and pharmacological care to infants with prenatal drug exposure.
While the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focused on confronting the drug epidemic through aggressive prosecution of drug dealers and suppliers, it is understood that prosecution is only part of the comprehensive approach. Treatment for addicts is an important aspect of fighting the drug epidemic, and treatment for newborns, the most vulnerable in our communities, is essential to combat the scourge of drug abuse.
“Lily’s Place is on the front lines of the epidemic. My heart bleeds for every innocent newborn suffering from the scourge of drugs,” said U.S. Attorney Stuart. “No one sees the devastation of drug abuse first-hand like the professionals who staff that facility. Their work caring for newborns is critical, and I look forward to meeting with the treatment team.”
WHO:
- United States Attorney Mike Stuart
- Lily’s Place Executive Director Rebecca Crowder
- Officials and staff from Lilly’s Place
WHAT:
- Meeting with Lilly’s Place officials and tour of facility
WHEN:
- Wednesday, January 17, 2018, at 3:00 p.m.
WHERE:
- Lily’s Place
- 1320 7th Avenue
- Huntington, WV 25701
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Two defendants plead guilty to federal drug chargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two defendants pleaded guilty today to federal drug crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Debra Martin, 34, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams of more of heroin. In a separate prosecution, Schauwne Martin, 36, of Dunbar, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the collaborative investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Parkersburg Drug Task Force, the West Virginia State Police, the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, and the Police Departments of the cities of Parkersburg, Vienna, and Williamstown for the Debra Martin case. U.S. Attorney Stuart also commended the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force for the investigation of Schauwne Martin.
Debra Martin admitted that from December 2016 until her arrest in November 2017, she was involved with several individuals in distributing heroin at various locations throughout the Parkersburg area. In addition, Debra Martin admitted to selling heroin to a confidential informant working with the Parkersburg Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation on numerous occasions. Debra Martin and her co-conspirators were involved in the distribution of a total of between one and three kilograms of heroin. Debra Martin faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on April 5, 2018.
In a separate prosecution, Schauwne Martin admitted that on February 28, 2017, law enforcement found a loaded .380 caliber, semiautomatic handgun, approximately 94 grams of pure methamphetamine, and digital scales in his kitchen in Dunbar. Martin, who has previously been convicted for conspiracy to distribute cocaine in Kanawha County, also admitted that he possessed another handgun, and that he had sold methamphetamine to informants on seven other occasions. Martin faces at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 5, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney John Frail is in charge of the Debra Martin prosecution. Assistant United States Attorney Eric Bacaj is responsible for the prosecution of Schauwne Martin. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin is presiding 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. 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.
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Two Detroit men plead guilty to federal heroin crimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two Detroit men pleaded guilty today to federal drug charges, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. JaJuan Thrasher, 30, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin. In a separate prosecution, Charles Duncan Pippins, 30, pleaded guilty to distributing heroin and possession with intent to distribute heroin. U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart commended the investigation of the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force for the Thrasher case, and also commended the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department for the investigation of Pippins.
On September 14, 2015, members of the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at 2317 Lincoln Avenue 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 that was packaged for distribution from Thrasher’s pocket. Thrasher admitted that he had been 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. Thrasher faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 16, 2018.
In a separate prosecution, on September 12, 2016, deputies with the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department used a confidential informant to make a controlled purchase of heroin from Pippins. The informant traveled to the Days Inn Hotel located on U.S. Route 60 in Huntington, where Pippins distributed heroin to the informant. Deputies executed a search warrant on his room, and as agents entered, Pippins flushed heroin down the toilet. During the search of the room, deputies seized approximately 6 grams of heroin that Pippins admitted he intended to sell. An analyst with the West Virginia State Police Forensic Laboratory confirmed that the heroin was mixed with fentanyl, a powerful opiate painkiller. Pippins faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 30, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling these prosecutions. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the plea hearings.
These cases were 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.
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Dunbar felon sentenced to federal prison for gun crimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Dunbar felon who possessed a firearm in February 2017 was sentenced today to three years and four months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Amanda Renee Taylor, 40, previously pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the investigation of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.
On February 7, 2017, Taylor possessed two firearms, a Lorcin .380 caliber pistol and a High Standard .22 caliber revolver, when she was arrested for stealing mail. Taylor admitted that she stole the mail and possessed methamphetamine and counterfeit United States currency found when she was arrested. Taylor was prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law because of a 2009 felony drug conviction in Kanawha County Circuit Court.
Assistant United States Attorney Meredith George Thomas is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.
This case was brought 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.
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Michigan man pleads guilty to federal oxymorphone crimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. - A Michigan man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Tremaine Dean Pool, Jr., 22, of Romulus, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute oxymorphone.
Pool admitted that on December 2, 2016, law enforcement found a loaded 9mm handgun and a bag containing 68 forty milligram oxymorphone pills in his proximity in a residence in Lewisburg. Pool also admitted that he possessed the gun and that he possessed the pain pills with intent to distribute. Pool further admitted that he conspired and worked with codefendants Joshua Adam Smith and Nicole Lee Honaker to distribute pain pills in Greenbrier County during November and December 2016, and that approximately 300 forty milligram oxymorphone pills were distributed or possessed with the intent to distribute during this drug trafficking activity.
Pool faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 18, 2018. Smith and Honaker each face up to 20 years in federal prison for drug crimes associated with this investigation when they are sentenced on January 24, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart commended the Greenbrier Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force for the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John File is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger is presiding over these cases.
These cases are being prosecuted under the Greenbrier Valley Heroin and 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 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.
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Kanawha County man sentenced to over six years in federal prison for receiving child pornographyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. - A Kanawha County man was sentenced today to six years and three months in federal prison for a child pornography crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Stephen Lee Rhodes, 40, of Clendenin, previously pleaded guilty to receiving child pornography. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence. Rhodes was also ordered to serve 20 years on federal supervised release after completion of his prison term. Additionally, Rhodes will be required to register as a sex offender.
Rhodes admitted that on June 4, 2015, he received a video on his computer of a prepubescent minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Rhodes also admitted to possessing a large collection of child pornography images and videos contained on computers at his Clendenin residence. The investigation uncovered that Rhodes was using a peer-to-peer file sharing program to download, receive, and distribute child pornography images and videos. Agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation seized computers and other digital media storage devices containing child pornography from his residence before arresting Rhodes in March 2017.
U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Parkersburg Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for their work on this investigation.
“This office remains dedicated to prosecuting child predators who search the Internet targeting innocent children,” stated U.S. Attorney Stuart. “We will continue working tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to seek out and bring to justice those who mercilessly exploit children.”
Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution.
This 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.
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Federal inmates plead guilty to weapons chargesRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Two inmates who possessed weapons at the Federal Correctional Institution at Beckley pleaded guilty today, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Brandon Owens, 22, pleaded guilty to possession of a weapon by an inmate. In a separate prosecution, George Harper, 32, entered his guilty plea to the same federal weapons charge.
Owens admitted that on June 3, 2017, a Bureau of Prisons staff member located an object in the waist band of his pants. The object was a handcrafted weapon commonly referred to as a “shank.” The weapon was over four inches long, made of metal, sharpened to a point on one end, and outfitted with a piece of bed sheet on the other end to function as a handle.
In a separate prosecution, Harper admitted that on July 16, 2017, a Bureau of Prisons staff member saw him put something into his coffee cup. The staff member discovered that the object in the cup was a shank. The weapon was made of metal, over four inches long, and sharpened to a point on one end.
Owens and Harper each face up to five years in federal prison when they are sentenced on April 19, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the Federal Bureau of Prisons for their investigative work on these cases. Assistant United States Attorney John File is handling the prosecutions. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the plea hearings.
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Wood County man pleads guilty to federal methamphetamine crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Wood County man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Timothy Waldron, 31, of Mineral Wells, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
On November 20, 2016, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Waldron’s residence on Wills Street in Mineral Wells. Officers seized two rifles, nearly 1,300 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, sandwich baggies, and approximately $17,000 in cash from a safe found in the residence. The safe also contained Waldron’s birth certificate and Social Security card. Waldron then gave a statement to law enforcement, admitting that he had obtained over 10 pounds of methamphetamine for distribution during the two months prior to the search.
Waldron faces at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 10, 2018.
The Parkersburg Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John Frail is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before 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.
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U.S. Attorney's Offices promote January as Human Trafficking Prevention MonthRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The United States Attorney’s Offices for the Northern and Southern Districts are teaming up with law enforcement, service providers, and non-profit organizations to shed light on human trafficking as part of Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
In 2016, approximately 8,000 cases of human trafficking were reported to the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline, but only 21 of those cases were from West Virginia. Law enforcement officers believe that figure significantly underrepresents the scope of the problem in our state.
“Human trafficking is a human tragedy for which too many cases go unreported. We need the public to know the red flags of human trafficking so we can put a stop to it,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart, Southern District of West Virginia.
“With the climate in West Virginia ripe for human trafficking, more has to be done to educate the public about the issue and to combat it. Victims deserve more from all of us,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Powell, Northern District of West Virginia.
As part of Human Trafficking Prevention Month, the U.S. Attorneys for West Virginia want community members to understand the causes of human trafficking, and report suspected human trafficking.
West Virginia has a Human Trafficking Task Force, chaired by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Northern and Southern Districts of West Virginia. The Task Force is comprised of federal, state, and local law enforcement officers, service providers, victim advocates, educators, and representatives of the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, among others. The Task Force recently unveiled its new website, https://stophumantraffickingwv.org. The website includes information on reporting human trafficking, and the Task Force will add more content and resources to the website as the year progresses.
Human trafficking is a federal crime involving the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit someone for labor, services, or commercial sex. In addition, the facilitation or solicitation of children for commercial sex—even without force, fraud, or coercion—is a trafficking crime. West Virginia is particularly vulnerable to trafficking because of its poverty, drug problems, and proximity to states with a high incidence of trafficking crime. Trafficking can occur anywhere, with anyone, and Task Force members are especially concerned about a growing trend of trafficking within families in the state.
Residents should remain vigilant, watching for signs of trafficking. Some red flags for human trafficking include:
- Lacking freedom to make basic decisions during work or free time
- Sexually explicit online profile
- Involvement in prostitution
- Indebtedness to employer
- Lacking personal possessions
- Lacking control of identification documents
- Possessing multiple cell phones
- Lying about age or identity
- Avoiding answering questions about self
- Resisting offers for help
- Expressing unusual fear of law enforcement
Foster children and runaways are exceptionally vulnerable for trafficking. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, one in six runaways are believed to be victims of sex trafficking, and 86% of those trafficked children were in foster care or social services.
For more information, go to https://stophumantraffickingwv.org.
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Charleston man sentenced to federal prison for escapeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man who walked away from a halfway house without permission was sentenced today to six months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jalin McArn, 23, previously pleaded guilty to escape.
McArn was on supervised release because of a previous conviction for distribution of heroin. He was incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution at Milan in Michigan until August 2017, where he was serving a 10-month sentence for violation of his supervised release. He was then transferred to Dismas Charities, a halfway house in St. Albans, to finish his prison term. McArn admitted that he walked away from Dismas in the early morning hours of September 25, 2017. McArn further admitted that he did not have permission or authority to be absent. On September 26, 2017, an arrest warrant was issued for McArn and he turned himself in to authorities on October 10, 2017.
The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is in charge of the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence.
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Michael B. Stuart sworn in as United States Attorney for the Southern District of West VirginiaRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Michael B. Stuart took the oath of office today to become the United States Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia. President Donald Trump announced Stuart’s nomination on September 8, 2017, and the United States Senate confirmed him on December 20, 2017. Stuart was sworn in by Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston in a private ceremony. There will be a public event at a future date.
“I look forward to partnering with federal, state, and local authorities to ensure that those who bring their poisons to our state or prey upon our citizens are brought to justice,” stated U.S. Attorney Stuart. “I am humbled and honored to serve as United States Attorney, and my office is committed to strengthening the safety of our communities.”
The son and grandson of coal miners, Stuart was born in Philippi before his family moved to Morgantown. He graduated from Morgantown High School, went on to study at West Virginia University, and then earned his J.D. from Boston University.
Prior to taking office as U.S. Attorney, Stuart practiced law as a member in the Charleston office of Steptoe & Johnson. There, he was co-chair of the firm’s corporate services and tax practice group. He focused on corporate law, energy and commercial transactions, securities, and government relations. He counseled a wide variety of clients on mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, business development, mergers, dissolutions, financing, and management. Stuart also previously worked at Spilman Thomas & Battle in Charleston, and K&L Gates in Boston. Before practicing law, he worked as an accountant at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Pittsburgh.
Stuart is a proud husband and father to his wife, Katrina, and daughters, Isabella and Audrey.
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Former funeral home director sentenced to federal prison for defrauding insurance companyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – A former funeral director who defrauded an insurance company was sentenced today to a year and a month in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Joel L. McGuire, 61, of Alderson, previously pleaded guilty to wire fraud. He was also ordered to pay $50,200.18 in restitution.
McGuire was the funeral director at Broyles-McGuire Funeral Home in Union in Monroe County. While serving as funeral director, McGuire also sold insurance policies that would pay for clients’ funerals upon their death. On August 31, 2012, McGuire submitted a claim, stating that a client had passed away on August 29, 2012, and that he had provided funeral services at a cost of $3,313.71. McGuire knew that the client was still alive and that he had not provided any funeral services. The insurance company paid McGuire $3,312.71 for the claim. McGuire also admitted that, as a result of his submission of numerous other false claims for clients that had not died, he received more than $50,000.
The West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner Fraud Unit conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Eric Bacaj is in charge of the prosecution. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence.
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Charleston felon pleads guilty to federal gun crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal gun charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Vincent Beatty, 39, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Beatty admitted that on August 7, 2017, he sold a Smith & Wesson, model 22A-1, .22 caliber pistol to a confidential informant working with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. Beatty is prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law because of a 2007 felony conviction in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Union County, for aggravated assault.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys John Frail and Matt Davis are responsible for the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided over the plea hearing.
This case was brought 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.
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Former Treasurer of Teays Valley Volunteer Fire Department pleads guilty for embezzlementRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Hurricane woman pleaded guilty today for embezzling over $75,000 from the Teays Valley Volunteer Fire Department, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Kathy Sue Gwinn, 52, entered her guilty plea to theft from a program receiving federal funds.
Gwinn formerly served as the Treasurer of the Teays Valley Volunteer Fire Department. As Treasurer, she generated payroll checks for firefighters and signed the payroll checks on a fire department bank account. Gwinn admitted that she volunteered for the fire department, and had no authority to write herself checks, nor was she entitled to wages, salary, or compensation for her role as Treasurer. She further admitted that beginning in October 2014, and continuing through March 2017, she printed and wrote herself unauthorized checks from the fire department’s payroll account, noting on the memo line of the checks that the checks were for payroll, overtime, or tax preparation. She admitted that she moved money from one fire department bank account into the bank account primarily used for payroll, and when she transferred those funds, she inflated the amount of the transfer to include enough to cover the unauthorized checks she planned to write to herself. Over the course of her scheme, she embezzled $75,356.70. As part of her plea agreement, Gwinn has agreed to pay this amount in restitution.
During the period Gwinn embezzled funds, the Teays Valley Volunteer Fire Department received grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security. These grants allowed the fire department to pay firefighters and to purchase and maintain equipment.
Gwinn faces up to 10 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on April 9, 2018.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith George Thomas is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
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Two Boone County defendants plead guilty to federal gun crimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two Boone County residents pleaded guilty today to federal gun charges, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Justin Keith Branham, 34, of Alum Creek, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Alisha Marie Esque, 27, of Julian, entered her guilty plea to aiding and abetting the theft of firearms from a federal firearms licensee.
Branham and Esque are two of four defendants indicted in August 2017 and charged with stealing guns from a Boone County firearms dealer. Branham admitted that in November 2016, he possessed a rifle that he had stolen from the firearms dealer. Branham is prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law because of a 2013 felony conviction in Kanawha County Circuit Court for burglary by breaking and entering. Esque admitted that in November 2016, she served as a lookout for Branham while he broke into the store to steal guns.
Branham and Esque each face up to 10 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on March 21, 2018.
The Boone County Sheriff’s Office, the West Virginia State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney James Matthew Davis is handling 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 Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.
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Former Cross Lanes postal worker sentenced for stealing pills from the mailRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A former postal worker who stole oxycodone and hydrocodone pills mailed by the Department of Veterans Affairs to veterans was sentenced today to five years of probation, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Brittany Harrison, 31, of Cross Lanes, previously pleaded guilty to theft of mail by a postal employee. She was also ordered to pay $124.34 in restitution, the value of the stolen pills.
Harrison was a federal postal support employee who worked in the Charleston Main Post Office as a mail processing clerk. Through working at that post office, Harrison learned to identify packages mailed by the Department of Veterans Affairs that contained oxycodone and hydrocodone pills. After identifying these packages, Harrison opened them and stole the pain pills inside. On April 8, 2016, she opened a package from the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Huntington that was to be delivered to a Charleston veteran and stole oxycodone pills from the package. Harrison further admitted to stealing pills contained in at least six other packages, including 168 oxycodone pills on April 12, 2016, and another 168 oxycodone pills on April 13, 2016. On April 13, 2016, Harrison gave a statement to federal officers in which she admitted stealing the pain pills. Harrison is no longer an employee with the United States Postal Service.
The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation, assisted by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence.
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.
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Columbus man pleads guilty to federal drug crimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Columbus man who was caught selling heroin in Huntington in 2016 pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Traemone Khalil Miller, 22, entered his guilty plea to distribution of heroin and fentanyl.
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.
Miller faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 2, 2018.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling 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 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.
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Parkersburg man sentenced to 12 years in federal prison on carjacking chargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man who used a gun to steal a taxi was sentenced today to 12 years in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Marshall Leroy Saunders, 29, previously pleaded guilty to carjacking.
Saunders was a suspect in an unrelated crime when police observed him entering a taxi in Vienna on October 6, 2016. Saunders admitted that when police attempted to pull the taxi over, he pointed a loaded pistol at the driver and ordered him out of the vehicle. Saunders then took control of the taxi and fled to Parkersburg, driving at speeds of up to 110 miles per hour, running a red light, and driving the taxi southbound in the northbound lane of Grand Central Avenue. Saunders abandoned the taxi in Parkersburg, then hid in a wooded area until he was apprehended by police.
The Vienna Police Department, the Parkersburg Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney James Matthew Davis handled the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence.
This case was 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.
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Charleston man sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for fentanyl crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man was sentenced today to 20 years in federal prison for a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. David Ellis Murray, 48, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, which is anywhere from 25 to 50 times more potent than heroin.
Murray admitted that on October 20, 2016, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted a traffic stop of his vehicle. During the stop, officers recovered 1.13 grams of fentanyl from Murray. He later admitted that he intended to distribute the fentanyl. Officers then executed a search warrant at Murray’s residence on Lewis Street in Charleston and seized an additional 6.62 grams of fentanyl, as well as 7.37 pounds of crystal methamphetamine and a gun.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is in charge of the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence.
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 illegal drugs, including fentanyl. 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.
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Dunbar man pleads guilty to federal drug chargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Dunbar man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Rock Hudson Williams, also known as “Rocky,” 60, entered his guilty plea to aiding and abetting the distribution of crack.
Williams admitted that on July 24, 2015, he sold crack to a confidential informant working with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. The drug deal took place in the Dollar General parking lot in Cross Lanes.
Williams faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on March 29, 2018.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John J. Frail is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston.
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 crack.
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.
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Two defendants plead guilty to federal weapons chargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two men pleaded guilty today to federal weapons charges, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Steven Jones, 31, of Ripley, entered his guilty plea to possession of an unregistered weapon. In a separate prosecution, Jamie Edward Smith, 30, of Montgomery, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Jones admitted that on November 6, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence in Ripley and located a metal pipe bomb, gun powder, and other items used for a destructive device. Jones admitted in a Mirandized interview that he had built the pipe bomb, along with two others he had detonated on his property. The pipe bomb was not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
In a separate prosecution, Smith admitted that on December 20, 2016, he possessed a Raven Arms .25 caliber semiautomatic pistol at a Montgomery apartment complex. Smith was prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law because of a 2008 felony conviction in Fayette County Circuit Court for breaking and entering.
Both defendants face up to 10 years in federal prison. Jones is scheduled to be sentenced on March 19, 2018. Smith is scheduled to be sentenced on March 22, 2018.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, the West Virginia State Police, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation of Jones. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is in charge of the Jones prosecution. The plea hearing for Jones was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
The investigation of Smith was conducted by the Montgomery Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Matt Davis is responsible for the Smith prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., presided over Smith’s plea hearing.
These cases were brought 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.
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Boone County men plead guilty to federal gun crimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two Boone County men pleaded guilty today to federal gun crimes, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jason Allen Davis, 34, of Van, entered his guilty plea to aiding and abetting the theft of firearms from a federal firearms licensee. Joshua Wade Sheets, 32, of Danville, entered his guilty plea to aiding and abetting the receipt, possession, and sale of stolen firearms.
Davis and Sheets are two of four defendants indicted in August 2017 and charged with stealing guns from a Boone County firearms dealer. Davis admitted to serving as a lookout for Sheets in November 2016 while Sheets broke into the store and stole multiple firearms. Sheets admitted to arranging a sale of guns that were stolen from the same dealer in an earlier burglary.
Sheets and Davis each face up to 10 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on March 21, 2018.
The Boone County Sheriff’s Office, the West Virginia State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney James Matthew Davis is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
This case was 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.
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Wayne County man sentenced to federal prison for oxycodone convictionRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Wayne County man who assisted others in distributing oxycodone in the Fort Gay area in 2015 and 2016 was sentenced today to a year and a half in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Dennis Ransbottom, Jr., 32, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute oxycodone.
Between November 2015 and November 2016, Ransbottom participated in the conspiracy with others, including an oxycodone source from Detroit. During the conspiracy, the source frequently transported oxycodone pills from Michigan to Fort Gay to distribute, and would notify Ransbottom upon arrival in West Virginia. Ransbottom agreed to introduce individuals to the source, or otherwise arrange for customers to meet the source to buy pills. On November 29, 2016, Ransbottom was arrested along with another individual while they were meeting outside of the Pit Stop gas station in Fort Gay. Investigators located and seized a total of 382 thirty mg oxycodone tablets during the arrest.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. United States District 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.
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Beckley woman pleads guilty for role in federal drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Beckley woman pleaded guilty today for her role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Detria S. Carter, 33, entered her guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. Carter is one of 23 defendants indicted in June 2017 after a comprehensive investigation of drug trafficking in Southern West Virginia.
Carter admitted that between October 2016 and June 28, 2017, she took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants. During this time period, she was assisting her brother, Velarian Carter, a codefendant who previously pleaded guilty, in maintaining a drug trafficking organization while he was incarcerated on unrelated drug charges. The drug trafficking organization was responsible for distributing cocaine, crack, and heroin in and around Raleigh County. Carter admitted to having other participants in the conspiracy cook cocaine into crack at her house and to distributing the drugs in and around Southern West Virginia.
Additionally, Carter admitted that on May 25, 2017, she was stopped by the Beckley Police Department. Law enforcement discovered that Carter possessed 996 grams of cocaine, approximately 454 grams of crack, and a quantity of fentanyl. Carter admitted that it was her intent, and the intent of the drug trafficking organization, to distribute these controlled substances in Raleigh County. Law enforcement also seized two firearms from the same bag where the drugs were found.
Carter faces at least five and up to 40 years federal prison when she is sentenced on April 24, 2018.
Other individuals implicated as a result of this drug investigation have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Cheyenne Fragale and Macon Fragale, two brothers from Boomer in Fayette County, previously pleaded guilty 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. They both face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison when they are sentenced on March 14, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, previously entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. He faces a mandatory minimum of five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Velarian Carter, the brother of Detria Carter, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of crack, and more than 100 grams of heroin. He faces at least 20 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018.
This prosecution was made possible through the cooperative efforts of several investigating agencies. The investigation was 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 provided assistance throughout the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of these prosecutions. The plea hearing was 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.
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Charleston man sentenced to 13 years in federal prison for methamphetamine crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man was sentenced today to 13 years in federal prison for a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. In September 2017, Brian D. Terry, 32, was found guilty by a federal jury sitting in Charleston following his trial for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Witnesses for the United States testified that on April 20, 2016, Terry was the passenger in a vehicle that was stopped for speeding by officers with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. The traffic stop took place in the St. Albans area, on MacCorkle Avenue close to Oliver Street. During the traffic stop, Terry consented to a search, and officers discovered approximately 195 grams of crystal methamphetamine in his groin area. A chemist with U.S. Customs and Border Protection testified at trial that the methamphetamine found on Terry was approximately 99% pure.
Officers arrested Terry and read him his Miranda rights. Subsequently, during the transport of Terry to South Central Regional Jail, he shared details of his drug trafficking activity with an officer, including the quantity of methamphetamine he sold and the price he charged. Both the traffic stop and the transport to the jail were recorded.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Joshua Hanks and Clint Carte are in charge of the prosecution and tried the case before a federal jury. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence and presided over the trial.
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 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.
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West Virginia business owner pleads guilty to failing to pay employment taxesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A Fayette County, West Virginia, business owner pleaded guilty today to failing to pay over employment taxes, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Carol Casto 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.
Chief U.S. District Court Judge Thomas E. Johnston scheduled sentencing for March 14, 2018. Lopez faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg and U.S. Attorney Casto commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Alexander Effendi and Mara Strier of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division’s enforcement efforts can be found on the division’s website.
West Virginia Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Failing to Pay Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
A Fayette County, West Virginia, business owner pleaded guilty today to failing to pay over employment taxes, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Carol Casto 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.
Chief U.S. District Court Judge Thomas E. Johnston scheduled sentencing for March 14, 2018. Lopez faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg and U.S. Attorney Casto commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Alexander Effendi and Mara Strier of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division’s enforcement efforts can be found on the division’s website.
Prisoner pleads guilty for role in federal drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Velarian S. Carter, 38, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of crack, and more than 100 grams of heroin. Carter is one of 23 defendants indicted in June 2017 after a comprehensive investigation of drug trafficking in Southern West Virginia.
Carter admitted that between October 2016 and June 28, 2017, he took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants while he was incarcerated. The drug trafficking organization was responsible for distributing cocaine, crack, and heroin in and around Raleigh County. During the course of the conspiracy, Carter admitted to directing other participants outside of the jail to cook cocaine into crack and to distribute controlled substances in and around the Southern West Virginia. He also admitted that in some instances, he directed what prices should be charged for the drugs and how the money collected through the distribution of controlled substances should be distributed.
Carter faces at least 20 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. In a separate prosecution, Carter was sentenced in February 2017 to 20 years in federal prison for his role in a California-to-West Virginia drug conspiracy.
Other individuals implicated as a result of this drug investigation have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Cheyenne Fragale and Macon Fragale, two brothers from Boomer in Fayette County, previously pleaded guilty 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. They both face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison when they are sentenced on March 14, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, previously entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. He faces a mandatory minimum of five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018.
This prosecution was made possible through the cooperative efforts of several investigating agencies. The investigation was 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 provided assistance throughout the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of these prosecutions. The plea hearing was 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.
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Multiple federal inmates sentenced on weapons chargesRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Five federal inmates were sentenced today for possessing weapons at the Federal Correctional Institution at McDowell, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. As part of separate prosecutions, Scott Finnell, 29, was sentenced to a year and three months in prison; Misael Santana-Rivera, 32, was sentenced to a year and three months in prison; Antonio R. Azpeitia, 40, was sentenced to a year and three months in prison; Ernest Shields, 42, was sentenced to two years in prison; and Diego Ninos, 30, was sentenced to two years in prison. All of the defendants had previously pleaded guilty to possession of a weapon by an inmate of the institution.
Each inmate admitted to possessing a handcrafted weapon, commonly referred to as a “shank.” This year, from March until June, the weapons were either observed or discovered through searches by staff members of the Federal Correctional Institution at McDowell. The objects were made out of a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and wood, and were sharpened to a point at one end. The inmates all admitted that the shanks were designed and intended to be used as weapons.
These cases were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant United States Attorney John File handled these prosecutions. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentences.
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Elkview man sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for methamphetamine crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – An Elkview man who transported methamphetamine from Georgia to West Virginia was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison today, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Randy George Vance, 59, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
On January 13, 2016, officers with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted a traffic stop of Vance as he was returning to West Virginia from Atlanta. During a search of Vance’s vehicle, officers recovered approximately 156 grams of methamphetamine. The methamphetamine was lab-tested and confirmed to be over 80% pure. Vance admitted that he got the drugs in Atlanta and that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine.
The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. Assistant United States Attorney Gabriele Wohl is responsible for the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence.
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.
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Kanawha County man pleads guilty to distributing child pornographyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Kanawha County man pleaded guilty today to a child pornography crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Christopher Chad Winnell, 36, of Marmet, entered his guilty plea to two counts of distribution of child pornography.
Winnell admitted that on December 20, 2014, he engaged in an email conversation from his residence discussing the exchange of child pornography. Winnell further admitted that the email discussion resulted in the exchange of child pornography images involving infants. Winnell also admitted that on November 7, 2015, he used a messaging service to share an image of child pornography involving an infant with multiple individuals. The investigation determined that the image was received by at least one individual in Canada. The investigation further revealed that Winnell possessed hundreds of images of child pornography stored in an online account.
Winnell faces at least 10 and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on March 20, 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.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, the West Virginia State Police, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Couple sentenced to federal prison for drug distribution conspiracy involving mail theftRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A couple who conspired to steal oxycodone and hydrocodone from packages mailed from the Department of Veterans Affairs to veterans and then sold the pills from the stolen packages was sentenced to federal prison today, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Amber Fox, 28, of Lesage in Cabell County, was sentenced to two and a half years in prison after previously pleading guilty to mail theft. David Grove, Jr., 39, of Chillicothe, Ohio, was sentenced to two years in prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute pain pills. Both Fox and Grove were also ordered to pay $453.80 in restitution.
Fox was a federal postal support employee who worked in the Charleston Processing and Distribution Center. She used her job to steal pain pills by identifying packages that contained oxycodone and hydrocodone, specifically packages from the VA to veterans who were prescribed pain medication. Fox admitted that on March 17, 2015, she stole a package that contained 112 hydrocodone pills mailed from the VA to a veteran living in Raleigh County. After stealing the packages, Fox took the pills to the home that she shared with Grove in East Bank in Kanawha County. Together, they took some of the pills themselves and sold the remaining pills. Fox admitted to stealing between 45 and 50 postal packages containing thousands of oxycodone and hydrocodone pills from August 2014 to April 9, 2015. On April 9, 2015, law enforcement executed search warrants at the East Bank residence and located over 500 stolen oxycodone and hydrocodone pills. Both Fox and Grove gave statements admitting their involvement in the mail theft and drug distribution conspiracy. Fox is no longer an employee with the United States Postal Service.
The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation, with assistance from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentences.
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 illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.
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Beckley man admits role in federal drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – A Beckley man pleaded guilty today for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Dominic J. Copney, 24, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. Copney is one of 23 defendants indicted in June 2017 after a long-term investigation of drug trafficking in Southern West Virginia.
Copney admitted that between October 2016 and June 28, 2017, he took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants that was responsible for distributing controlled substances in and around Raleigh County. During the course of the conspiracy, Copney also admitted to collecting money from other members of the drug trafficking organization that had been obtained from selling and distributing illegal controlled substances. Copney admitted that throughout the conspiracy, he distributed approximately three kilograms of cocaine and over 100 grams of heroin.
Copney faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018.
Other individuals implicated as a result of this drug investigation have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Cheyenne Fragale and Macon Fragale, two brothers from Boomer in Fayette County, previously pleaded guilty 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. The both face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison when they are sentenced on March 14, 2018.
This prosecution was made possible through the cooperative efforts of several investigating agencies. The investigation was 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 provided assistance throughout the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of these prosecutions. The plea hearing was 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.
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Mingo County felon pleads guilty to federal gun chargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Mingo County felon pleaded guilty today to a federal gun crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Robert Lee Brewer, 57, of Kermit, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On January 20, 2017, deputies with the Mingo County Sheriff’s Office went to Brewer’s house to investigate a report that he had purchased a stolen gun. During an interview with law enforcement, Brewer admitted that he bought the gun, an F.I.E., Model E15, .22 caliber revolver. He further admitted that he knew he was not supposed to possess guns because of his felony conviction. Brewer additionally admitted that he had a rifle in his residence, and gave deputies permission to search. Deputies located the rifle, a Savage Arms, Model Mark II, .22 caliber rifle in Brewer’s house.
Through further investigation of pawn shop records, law enforcement determined that the .22 rifle was also stolen. Furthermore, Brewer admitted that in November 2016, he had another stolen firearm, a CBC, Model 715T, .22 caliber rifle, in his residence. Brewer was prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law because of a 2012 conviction in Mingo County Circuit Court for delivery of hydrocodone.
The Mingo County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Clint Carte is responsible for the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided over the plea hearing.
This case was brought 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.
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Huntington heroin dealer sentenced to federal prison for drug crimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man who sold heroin in June 2016 was sentenced today to four years and three months in federal prison for a drug charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. George Holloway, 45, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of heroin.
On June 7, 2016, a confidential informant working with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force met Holloway at 833 26th Street in Huntington. The informant bought approximately 20 grams of heroin from Holloway. As part of the plea agreement, Holloway admitted to all the drug trafficking activity charged in the indictment, including that he distributed heroin in Huntington on four other occasions in 2015 and 2016.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.
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 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.
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Huntington felon sentenced to federal prison for gun crimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington felon who possessed a firearm in January 2017 was sentenced today to four years and three months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jermaine D. Cathey, 36, previously pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On January 2, 2017, officers from the Huntington Police Department observed Cathey walking and screaming in the middle of Veteran’s Memorial Boulevard in Huntington. When officers approached Cathey, they saw that he had a pistol in his right hand. Cathey was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of multiple felony convictions, including a 2013 conviction in Cabell County Circuit Court for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.
This case was brought 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.
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Huntington drug dealer pleads guilty to federal heroin chargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man caught with heroin and a firearm in July 2017 pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Antonio Newson, 42, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
On July 10, 2017, officers with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Newson’s residence, located at 1748 Jefferson Avenue in Huntington. During the search, officers located approximately 983 grams of heroin in a closet, along with a firearm. Newson admitted that the heroin and the firearm belonged to him, and, as part of the plea agreement, he also admitted to the other drug activity charged in the indictment.
Newson faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on March 12, 2018.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor is handling 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 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 with existing local programs targeting gun crime.
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Charleston crack dealer pleads guilty to federal drug crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Yusuf Ali, 38, entered his guilty plea to distribution of crack.
Ali admitted that on four occasions in August 2017, he sold crack to a confidential informant working with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. The drug deals took place in Charleston. On August 29, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Ali’s residence and recovered over 130 grams of suspected crack and over 40 grams of suspected fentanyl.
Ali faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on March 15, 2018.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Matt Davis is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before 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. 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.
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