Southern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
South Charleston woman sentenced to federal prison for role in large-scale methamphetamine conspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A South Charleston woman was sentenced today to four years in federal prison for her role in a large-scale drug trafficking organization, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Morgan Light, 25, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
As part of a comprehensive investigation, agents from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and Homeland Security Investigations intercepted several mail packages that contained methamphetamine, other drugs, or drug proceeds. Since January 2014, several pounds of methamphetamine were transported from California and Nevada into the Southern District of West Virginia via the United States mail or through individuals driving packages of drugs into the area. Light, as well as codefendants Mark Cobb and Shayne Shamblen, each admitted that they worked with Joseph Cooper, another codefendant, to arrange for the shipment and transport of methamphetamine to West Virginia.
Light’s handwriting was found on at least one package that contained over 100 grams of crystal methamphetamine. Shamblen admitted that he arranged for the shipment of that same package and intended to distribute the methamphetamine contained in the package. Cobb lived with Light and Cooper in Nevada for a short time, and also helped with the packaging and distribution of methamphetamine. Cobb’s fingerprint was found on a package containing approximately three grams of crystal methamphetamine that was sent to an individual in St. Albans. The methamphetamine from both of the packages was laboratory tested and found to be over 90% pure.
Multiple defendants have been sentenced to federal prison as a result of this large-scale methamphetamine trafficking investigation. Cooper was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Benjamin Childers was sentenced to 10 years and a month in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Cobb and Shamblen were both sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Bays was sentenced to five years in prison for maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine. Harold Parsons was sentenced to four years in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Several other individuals involved in the drug trafficking organization have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Jon Bowman previously pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime and faces up to five years in prison when he is sentenced on June 14, 2017. David Huffman pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and faces at least five and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 21, 2017.
Gregory Crum and Diana Salazar Gamboa both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Crum faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison. Gamboa faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison. Beth Hammonds pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime and faces up to five years in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy. Crum, Gamboa, and Hammonds are all scheduled to be sentenced on August 3, 2017.
Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for these prosecutions. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., is presiding over these cases.
These prosecutions 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 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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Logan businessman sentenced to federal prison for tax crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Logan man was sentenced today to a year and a day in federal prison for a tax crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Timothy Moore, 54, previously pleaded guilty to making a false statement on a tax return. Moore was also ordered to pay a $25,000 fine and over $127,000 in restitution.
Moore admitted that from 2010 through at least 2013, he diverted checks intended for his business, Auto Body Specialists, LLC, an auto body and collision company located in Logan. Moore also admitted that the checks were payment for auto body or other work, and that he diverted the checks by depositing them directly into his personal bank accounts rather than into his company accounts. Moore additionally admitted that he hired an outside bookkeeper to prepare his personal and business taxes and to organize the books and records of the business. He admitted that he did not tell his bookkeeper about the diverted checks, nor did he provide the bookkeeper access to his personal bank accounts. When the bookkeeper filed joint income tax returns for Moore and his wife, Moore admitted that he knew that his tax returns understated his income from his company, as the returns did not take into account those diverted funds. Moore further admitted that he authorized the bookkeeper to file the false returns.
In tax years 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013, Moore diverted $414,273.58 into his personal accounts that was not reported on his tax returns. Moore also admitted that the total tax loss for his criminal conduct is $127,926.26, and that he owes that same amount to the IRS as restitution.
This case was investigated by agents of the IRS – Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith George Thomas is handling the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence.
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St. Albans man sentenced to federal prison for methamphetamine crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A St. Albans man was sentenced today to four years in federal prison for a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Harold Lee Parsons III, 40, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On February 5, 2016, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Parsons’ residence on 2nd Avenue in St. Albans. Parsons was present in his residence during the search and he opened a safe for law enforcement. Inside the safe were 12 baggies containing approximately 330 grams of methamphetamine. Parsons further admitted that he received the drugs from Joseph Cooper, a codefendant, and that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine.
As the result of a comprehensive drug investigation conducted by agents from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and Homeland Security Investigations, several defendants have been sentenced to federal prison. Cooper was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Benjamin Childers, another individual involved with the transport of methamphetamine in this drug trafficking organization, was sentenced to 10 years and a month in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Cobb was sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Shayne Shamblen was also sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Bays was sentenced to five years in prison for maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine.
Several other individuals involved in the drug trafficking organization have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Morgan Light previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced tomorrow. Jon Bowman previously pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime and faces up to five years in prison when he is sentenced on June 14, 2017. David Huffman pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and faces at least five and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 21, 2017.
Gregory Crum and Diana Salazar Gamboa both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Crum faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison. Gamboa faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison. Beth Hammonds pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime and faces up to five years in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy. Crum, Gamboa, and Hammonds are all scheduled to be sentenced on August 3, 2017.
Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for these prosecutions. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., is presiding over these cases.
These prosecutions 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 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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District of Columbia man sentenced to federal prison for gun crimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A District of Columbia man was sentenced today to three years and one month in federal prison for a gun charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Nicholas Loukas, 31, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to make false statements on records kept by licensed firearms dealers.
Loukas admitted that in September 2015, he directed others to purchase firearms for him so that he would not be named in records required to be maintained by federally-licensed firearms dealers. When the purchases were made, the buyers listed their names on the forms required by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, instead of Loukas’ name. Loukas further admitted that four handguns were purchased for him by others at Shooter’s Roost in Beckley. Loukas also admitted that another handgun was purchased for him by an individual at J & S Pawn in Beckley. As part of the investigation, law enforcement additionally recovered another handgun and a shotgun that Loukas unlawfully possessed. Loukas was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2002 robbery conviction in Maryland.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John File is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by working with existing local programs that target gun crime.
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Charleston methamphetamine dealer sentenced to federal prison for drug crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston drug dealer was sentenced today to three years and five months in federal prison for a methamphetamine crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Chelsea Fore, 25, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine.
On October 13, 2016, officers with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team used a confidential informant to meet with Fore to purchase methamphetamine. The drug deal took place in the area of the Kmart located at 4th Avenue in Charleston. Once the informant gave Fore the prerecorded buy money, Fore got into the passenger seat of a BMW in the Kmart parking lot. After retrieving the methamphetamine, Fore got out of the car and gave the informant the drugs. Fore also admitted that she was responsible for distributing approximately two-and-a-half ounces of methamphetamine during the course of her drug trafficking.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston 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 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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Detroit man sentenced to five years in federal prison for gun crimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for a drug-related gun charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Thomas Lee Nelson, 48, previously pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
On March 10, 2016, the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted a search of Nelson’s residence located at 1830 10th Avenue in Huntington. During the search, agents located and seized a loaded Cobray Model DD .410/.45 caliber handgun from a room later identified as Nelson’s bedroom. Agents also located and seized heroin from the same room. Nelson admitted that he possessed the handgun as protection for himself and for the heroin.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney R. Gregory McVey is responsible for the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.
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 working with existing local programs that target gun crime. This case was also 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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Parkersburg felon pleads guilty to federal gun crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man pleaded guilty today to a federal gun crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Tyrese Antonio McMillon, 32, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
McMillon admitted that on May 27, 2016, in Parkersburg, he possessed a Lorcin .380 pistol. McMillon was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2006 felony conviction in Cabell County Circuit Court for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.
McMillon faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 24, 2017.
The Parkersburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
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 pleads guilty to possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man faces up to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty today to a child pornography crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jason Lee Smith, 39, entered his guilty plea to possession of child pornography.
Smith admitted that he possessed over 600 images and videos of minors engaged in sexual acts. Many of the images and videos depict prepubescent minors. The images and videos were located in Charleston on his personal computer. The investigation revealed that Smith was using a peer-to-peer file sharing program to download, receive, and distribute child pornography.
“We have no tolerance for those who put the safety of our children at risk,” stated United States Attorney Casto. “Crimes involving the exploitation and abuse of children result in serious charges that carry severe consequences. We will use every tool at our disposal to track down these sexual predators and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.”
The sentencing is scheduled for August 24, 2017.
The West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Parkersburg Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing initiative of the United States Attorney’s Office to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.
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Charleston felon pleads guilty to federal gun chargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal gun crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Randy Allen Taylor, 34, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Taylor admitted that on September 4, 2016, he consented to a search by the Charleston Police Department of a hotel room at the Courtyard Marriott on Kanawha Boulevard, East, in Charleston. During the search, officers recovered a Kel-Tec, Model PF-9, 9mm pistol and approximately 3.7 ounces of methamphetamine. Following the search of the hotel room, Taylor consented to a search of a 2005 Lincoln Aviator that he had driven to the hotel. Inside the vehicle, officers recovered a stolen Cobra, Model CA-380, .380 caliber handgun.
Taylor admitted that he possessed both the guns and the drugs recovered in the searches, and that he intended to distribute the drugs. Taylor was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2011 conviction in the Southern District of West Virginia for possession with intent to distribute oxycodone.
Taylor faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 30, 2017.
The Charleston Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Matt Davis is in charge of 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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Two men plead guilty to federal methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two defendants caught receiving a shipment of crystal methamphetamine in Huntington pleaded guilty today to federal drug charges, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Sean Bradsher, 34, of Hurricane, pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the attempted possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. As a result of the same investigation, Christian Duran, 34, of San Jose, pleaded guilty to attempted possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
On January 13, 2017, members of the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force conducted a controlled delivery of approximately 25 pounds of marijuana and 150 grams of crystal methamphetamine to Bradsher and Duran at a residence on 4th Avenue in Huntington. The drugs were intercepted by agents the previous day after they were sent from California to Huntington. After Bradsher and Duran took possession of the drugs, agents executed a search warrant at the residence. Agents recovered the marijuana and methamphetamine along with a total of $13,842 in United States currency during the search. Duran admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine, and Bradsher admitted that he allowed Duran to use the residence to receive the methamphetamine from California.
Bradsher and Duran both face at least 5 and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on August 28, 2017.
The Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force, along with the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department and the West Virginia State Police, conducted the investigation, with assistance from the West Virginia National Guard RAID Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling these prosecutions. The plea hearings were held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
These prosecutions 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 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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Two defendants headed to federal prison for heroin crimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two men who previously pleaded guilty to heroin crimes were sentenced to federal prison today, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Earnest Moore, 41, of Columbus, was sentenced to 13 years and four months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin. In a separate prosecution, Robert Douglas Black, 52, of Huntington, was sentenced to five years and 10 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to distributing heroin.
From early 2013 until his arrest on July 23, 2014, Moore conspired with others to distribute heroin in the Point Pleasant area of Mason County. During the conspiracy, associates of Moore would frequently transport heroin from Detroit and Columbus to a residence in Gallipolis, where they would store and prepare the drugs for distribution. Members of the conspiracy would then distribute the heroin to customers in Gallipolis and to customers who traveled from Point Pleasant. Moore and others also frequently traveled to Point Pleasant where they used various residences to distribute the drugs.
In a separate prosecution, Black admitted that on May 4, 2016, he sold heroin to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place at Black’s residence on 5th Avenue West in Huntington. On May 25, 2016, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Black’s residence and seized over $2,000 in cash, a set of digital scales, and additional heroin that Black admitted he intended to distribute.
The Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, with assistance from the Gallia-Meigs County, Ohio, Major Crimes Task Force, conducted the investigation of Moore. The investigation of Black was conducted by the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled these prosecutions. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentences.
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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Two Bluefield pain pill dealers appear in federal court on drug chargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two Bluefield drug dealers appeared in federal court today for hydromorphone crimes, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Everett Ray Gillespie, 66, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of hydromorphone and was sentenced to six months in federal prison followed by three years of federal supervised release, with the first six months of supervised release to be served on home confinement. In a separate prosecution, Timothy Jordan, 48, entered his guilty plea to distribution of hydromorphone.
Gillespie admitted that on April 15, 2016, he sold hydromorphone to a confidential informant in Bluefield. He also admitted that he distributed hydromorphone on another occasion, and that law enforcement seized 35 hydromorphone pills, more than $500 cash, and a handgun when they executed a search warrant at his residence.
In a separate drug prosecution, Jordan admitted that on December 2, 2015, he distributed hydromorphone in Bluefield to an individual cooperating with law enforcement authorities. Jordan faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 5, 2017.
The Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force conducted the investigations. Assistant United States Attorney John File is in charge of these prosecutions. The hearings were held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
These cases were brought under the Bluefield Pill Initiative, part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs 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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Charleston drug dealer pleads guilty to federal methamphetamine crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston methamphetamine dealer pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Shannon L. Mitchell, 36, entered his guilty plea to distribution of methamphetamine.
Mitchell admitted that on July 18, 2016, he sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place near Mitchell’s home on Maryland Avenue in Charleston.
Mitchell faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 8, 2017.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John Frail is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
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 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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Nitro meth dealer pleads guilty to federal drug crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Nitro man caught selling methamphetamine while on federal supervised release pleaded guilty today to a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. John F. Parrish, Jr., 55, entered his guilty plea to distribution of methamphetamine.
Parrish admitted that on August 18, 2016, he sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place at the Exxon One Stop gas station on Goff Mountain Road in Cross Lanes. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s laboratory analyzed the methamphetamine and determined that it was at least 95% pure.
Parrish faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 23, 2017.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Clint Carte is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
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 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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Two defendants sentenced to federal prison for drug crimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two defendants were sentenced today to federal prison for drug crimes, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Miana Miller, 20, of Huntington, was sentenced to two years in prison for distribution of heroin. In a separate prosecution, Ashara Mayes, 29, of Decatur, Georgia, was sentenced to seven months in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
Miller admitted that on September 15, 2015, she sold heroin to a confidential informant working with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force. The drug deal took place at the corner of 9th Street West and Monroe Avenue in Huntington. Miller also admitted that she was involved in two additional sales of heroin to the same confidential informant on September 24 and October 21, 2015. On May 15, 2015, law enforcement conducted a search of Miller’s residence on 9th Avenue in Huntington and found approximately 83 grams of crack in the pocket of a coat in Miller’s bedroom. Law enforcement also discovered a loaded firearm in another bedroom of the home. Furthermore, Miller admitted that from October 3, 2015, to February 19, 2016, she leased a residence located at 1438 Lynn Street in Huntington in her name for another individual. Miller admitted that she did not live at that location and that the residence was unoccupied. Miller additionally admitted that the residence was used as a “stash house” to store drugs. In a search of that location on February 19, 2016, law enforcement seized 98 grams of crack and 11 grams of heroin.
In a separate prosecution, on February 25, 2016, Mayes received a package containing cocaine and crack from codefendant Trevor Bethel in Atlanta. Mayes then transported the package to Huntington for Bethel in exchange for $500. After Mayes arrived in Huntington, she met Bethel and took the package to the residence of Jarrell Johnson, another codefendant, located on Rear 9th Avenue in Huntington. Laboratory analysis determined that the package contained over 160 grams of cocaine and over 11 grams of crack. For his part in the drug conspiracy, Johnson was sentenced to five years in federal prison. Bethel remains a fugitive.
The Huntington Police Department and the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation of Miller. The investigation of Mayes and her codefendants was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory McVey is handling these prosecutions. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentences.
These prosecutions 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 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 defendants plead guilty to federal drug crimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two defendants pleaded guilty today to federal drug crimes, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jessica Ann Barnett, 29, of South Point, Ohio, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin. In a separate prosecution, Malik Muhammad Abdull Williams, 24, of Michigan, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and crack.
Between November 2014 and June 8, 2016, Barnett participated with multiple individuals in a conspiracy to distribute heroin in the Huntington area. At various times during the conspiracy, Barnett was provided with cash that constituted proceeds from heroin sales. Barnett would then wire the money to a third party in Michigan via money transfer companies such as Western Union and MoneyGram. Barnett transferred proceeds from heroin distributions on at least 27 occasions totaling approximately $26,410. On multiple occasions, Barnett also sold small amounts of heroin. Barnett faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on August 28, 2017.
In a separate prosecution, on May 2, 2016, members of the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force were conducting surveillance at the Greyhound Bus Station in Ashland, Kentucky, after receiving information Williams would be arriving on a bus in possession of drugs. Agents observed Williams exit a bus and enter a vehicle that traveled to Huntington. Agents conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle at 1st Street and 4th Avenue in Huntington and discovered Williams in possession of approximately 31 grams of heroin and 41 grams of crack concealed in his pants. Williams admitted that he intended to sell the drugs in Huntington. Williams faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 28, 2017.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling these prosecutions. The plea hearings were held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
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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Fayette County man pleads guilty to federal methamphetamine crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Fayette County man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Michael Terrell, 31, of Smithers, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Terrell admitted that on December 8, 2015, he possessed over 160 grams of methamphetamine at his residence in Smithers that he intended to sell. Agents of the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force discovered the drugs during the execution of search warrant at Terrell’s residence. Prior to executing the search warrant, agents utilized a confidential informant to buy methamphetamine from Terrell at his residence on December 3 and again on December 6, 2015. During the execution of the search warrant, agents also seized approximately $10,000 cash that included prerecorded buy money used in each of the controlled buys.
Terrell faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 10, 2017.
The Central West Virginia Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John Frail is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
This prosecution is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of 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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Charleston drug dealer pleads guilty to federal heroin crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Albert Bowman, Jr., 40, entered his guilty plea to distribution of heroin.
Bowman admitted that on July 5, 2016, he sold heroin to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The controlled purchase took place inside Bowman’s residence on Russell Street in Charleston. Officers also executed a search warrant at the residence and located cash, additional drugs, and firearms. Bowman additionally admitted that he had distributed over 130 grams of heroin in the months leading up to the search warrant.
Bowman faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 14, 2017.
The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston is presiding over the case.
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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Detroit man and Huntington woman plead guilty to federal heroin chargesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man and a Huntington woman who participated with others distributing heroin in the Huntington area between 2014 and 2016 pleaded guilty today to federal drug charges, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Derrick C. Morris, 27, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Dorothy D. Pannell, 23, entered her guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute heroin.
Between November 2014 and June 8, 2016, Morris admitted that he conspired with other individuals to distribute heroin that was transported to Huntington from the Detroit area. During the conspiracy, Morris received heroin that he would distribute in Huntington. Morris subsequently provided proceeds from the distributions back to individuals in Detroit. Morris enlisted the aid of multiple individuals to conduct wire transfers of cash from Huntington to the Detroit area. Morris also admitted that he used multiple residences in Huntington to distribute heroin, including residences located at 1922 7th Avenue and 612 Trenton Place. Agents were able to seize heroin and firearms from the residences during the investigation. As part of his plea, Morris admitted that he was responsible for the distribution of up to three kilograms of heroin.
Pannell admitted that she participated in the conspiracy during the months of April and May of 2016. During this period, Pannell permitted another individual to store heroin in her residence located at 729 Oxford Drive in Huntington. Pannell further permitted the individual to retrieve heroin from her residence on various occasions to make distributions in Huntington. On May 23, 2016, agents with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Pannell’s residence. During the search, agents seized approximately 85 grams of heroin and three firearms.
Morris faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison. Pannell faces up to 20 years in federal prison. They are both scheduled to be sentenced on August 21, 2017.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution. The plea hearings were held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
These prosecutions 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 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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Raleigh County man sentenced to five years in federal prison for witness tampering crimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Raleigh County man was sentenced today to five years in federal prison and ordered to pay a $25,000 fine for a witness tampering crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Mark Radcliffe, 60, of Shady Spring, was convicted in October 2016 of conspiracy to tamper with a witness following a three-day jury trial.
On December 23, 2015, Seth Radcliffe, the son of Mark Radcliffe, was facing kidnapping charges in an unrelated case. Witnesses for the United States testified at trial that Mark Radcliffe directed Jimmie Harper, a codefendant, to take actions to illegally influence Seth Radcliffe’s case. Harper testified that immediately following Seth Radcliffe’s arrest for kidnapping on December 23, 2015, he and Mark Radcliffe began discussing how they needed to get a witness to minimize Seth Radcliffe’s actions. Harper further testified that he and Mark Radcliffe formed a plan on December 24, 2015, to have a witness lie to law enforcement about the kidnapping.
Harper additionally testified that on January 24, 2016, he met with witnesses in Seth Radcliffe’s case in an attempt to influence testimony before a federal grand jury. Before the meeting, Harper testified that he spoke to Mark Radcliffe about the plan and obtained a letter written by Seth Radcliffe that was read aloud during the meeting. Harper also testified that during the same meeting, at Mark Radcliffe’s direction, he emphasized that the kidnapping charges against Seth Radcliffe needed to go away because of the severe penalties. Harper additionally testified that he suggested, also at Mark Radcliffe’s direction, limiting answers that could be damaging to Seth Radcliffe by responding with “I don’t know” or “I don’t remember.” Harper testified that Seth Radcliffe’s letter was not factually correct, and that he and Mark Radcliffe intended to corruptly influence witness testimony.
Text messages and phone calls admitted into evidence during the trial showed significant communication between Mark Radcliffe and Jimmie Harper prior to Harper’s meeting with the witnesses. Additionally, calls between Seth Radcliffe and Mark Radcliffe that were also admitted into evidence showed extensive communication regarding an unlawful strategy to get Seth Radcliffe’s charges dismissed.
During the sentencing hearing, United States District Judge Irene C. Berger stated that the defendant’s “conduct evidences clear disrespect for the law and criminal justice system,” and that the defendant’s actions “revictimized the target of the kidnapping.”
Harper was sentenced in August 2016 to seven years in federal prison for an unrelated federal arson crime, followed by a consecutive sentence of two years in federal prison for the witness tampering crime.
The West Virginia State Police, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, and the North Carolina State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Monica D. Coleman and Haley Bunn are in charge of the prosecution and tried the case before a federal jury. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the case and imposed the sentence.
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Attorney General Sessions to speak at DEA360 Heroin and Opioid Response Summit in West VirginiaRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Attorney General Jeff Sessions will give the opening remarks at a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) 360 Heroin & Opioid Response Summit on THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017. The daylong event sponsored by the DEA, Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America and the University of Charleston School of Pharmacy will bring together stakeholders and professionals working in law enforcement, prevention and education, treatment, recovery, health care and emergency response. The DEA’s 360 Strategy is designed to help cities and surrounding regions deal with the heroin and prescription drug abuse epidemic and the violent crime associated with it. The social media hashtag for the event is #DEA360Strategy.
WHO: Attorney General Jeff Sessions
WHAT: Speech at DEA360 Heroin & Opioid Response Summit.
WHEN: THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017
9:00 a.m. EDTWHERE: University of Charleston
2300 MacCorkle Avenue, SE
Charleston, WV 25304
OPEN PRESS
(Camera Preset by for K9 Sweep: 8:15 a.m. EDT // Final Access: 8:40 a.m. EDT)NOTE: All media must RSVP and present government-issued photo I.D. (such as a driver’s license) as well as valid media credentials. The RSVP and event location logistics should be directed to David Traube, Director of Communications for the University of Charleston, at (304) 352-0014 or [email protected].
Two men plead guilty to federal heroin conspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two men who participated in a heroin conspiracy in the Huntington area between 2014 and 2016 pleaded guilty today to federal drug charges, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Mark Steven Bush, Jr., 29, of Detroit, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Tiquan R. Lang, 22, of Port St. Joe, Florida, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute heroin.
Between November 2014 and June 8, 2016, Bush conspired with others who either sold heroin for him, rented or purchased cars in their names for him, stored heroin and guns for him, and transferred the proceeds of drug trafficking for him. During the conspiracy, those selling heroin for Bush would receive heroin on consignment or “front.” Bush would later receive proceeds from the sales. Bush enlisted the aid of others who permitted Bush to title cars in their names in exchange for payments of heroin. These individuals also provided transportation for Bush and for those selling heroin on Bush’s behalf. Bush utilized another individual to make trips to Detroit to deliver money and transport heroin and oxymorphone pills back to Huntington. Bush also stored and distributed heroin at various residences in the Huntington area. In a law enforcement search of 729 Oxford Drive in Huntington on May 23, 2016, approximately 85 grams of heroin and four firearms were seized, all of which Bush admitted he possessed.
Lang admitted he participated in the conspiracy in early 2015. During this period, Lang permitted multiple individuals, including Bush, to stay in and distribute heroin from his apartment located at 1922 7th Avenue in Huntington. On multiple occasions, Lang received and distributed heroin when directed. On February 4, 2015, agents with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Lang’s apartment. During the search, agents seized two firearms, and Lang admitted his participation in the conspiracy to law enforcement.
Bush faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison. Lang faces up to 20 years in federal prison. Both defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on August 14, 2017.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecutions. The plea hearings were held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
This case is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down 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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California man pleads guilty to federal methamphetamine conspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A California man pleaded guilty today to a federal methamphetamine crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Edgar Zendejas Bedoy, 35, of El Centro, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine.
Bedoy admitted that beginning in December 2011 and continuing into 2012, he conspired with Gary Liberty to send packages of methamphetamine and marijuana from California to an individual in Sissonville for distribution. The individual was actually a confidential informant cooperating with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. Through discussions with the informant, Gary Liberty agreed to arrange methamphetamine and marijuana deals for Bedoy with the informant. Liberty negotiated the price of the drugs for Bedoy with the informant, and the two then agreed to ship the packages containing methamphetamine and marijuana from California to the informant in West Virginia. Bedoy admitted to shipping 472 grams of methamphetamine and nearly 12 kilograms of marijuana to West Virginia for distribution.
Bedoy faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on July 27, 2017. Liberty was previously sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for methamphetamine trafficking.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, part of the Department of Homeland Security, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
This prosecution is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of 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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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 Carol Casto. Re’Shaun Lamonte Wilborne, 31, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Wilborne admitted that on October 13, 2016, he possessed a Taurus, Model PT92AF, 9x19mm semiautomatic pistol and several boxes of ammunition. An officer with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team discovered the handgun in Wilborne’s backpack in a Motel 6 on MacCorkle Avenue in Charleston. Three days later, on October 16, 2016, a Charleston Police Department officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Central Avenue in Charleston in reference to two individuals behind a bar fighting, one of whom was later identified as Wilborne. When Wilborne saw the officer, he admitted that he began to flee. The officer caught up to Wilborne around the 400 block of Elm Street and in a search of Wilborne incident to arrest, law enforcement recovered a Glock, Model 29, 10mm semiautomatic pistol. After a check of the gun’s serial number, law enforcement confirmed that the firearm was stolen. Wilborne was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2004 conviction for second degree sexual assault in Fayette County Circuit Court.
Wilborne faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 3, 2017.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, the Charleston Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Clint Carte is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston.
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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Multiple defendants plead guilty to federal methamphetamine crimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A man and a woman from Paramount, California, and a woman from South Charleston pleaded guilty today to federal drug crimes for their roles in a large-scale drug trafficking organization, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Gregory Crum, 42, and Diana Salazar Gamboa, 43, both entered guilty pleas conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Beth Hammonds, 52, entered her guilty plea to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime.
As part of a comprehensive investigation, agents from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and Homeland Security Investigations intercepted several packages that contained crystal methamphetamine, commonly referred to as “ice.” Since January 2014, several pounds of crystal methamphetamine were transported from California and Nevada into the Southern District of West Virginia via the United States mail or through individuals driving packages of drugs into the area. Crum and Gamboa admitted that they arranged for methamphetamine to be sent into the Southern District and accepted payment for the drugs. Hammonds admitted that she received methamphetamine and further distributed it to individuals around South Charleston. Hammonds also admitted that she mailed proceeds from the drug distributions to Joseph Cooper, another individual involved in the conspiracy.
Crum faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison. Gamboa faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison. Hammonds faces up to five years in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy. All three are scheduled to be sentenced on August 3, 2017.
As a result of this comprehensive drug investigation, several defendants have been sentenced to federal prison. Cooper was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Benjamin Childers, another individual involved with the transport of methamphetamine in this drug trafficking organization, was sentenced to 10 years and a month in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Cobb was sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Shayne Shamblen was also sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Bays was sentenced to five years in prison for maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine.
Several other individuals involved in the drug trafficking organization have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Morgan Light and Harold Lee Parsons previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and each faces up to 20 years in federal prison. Light is scheduled to be sentenced on June 8, 2017, and Parsons is scheduled to be sentenced on June 7, 2017. David Huffman pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and faces at least five and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 21, 2017. Jon Bowman previously pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime and faces up to five years in prison when he is sentenced on June 1, 2017.
Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for these prosecutions. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., is presiding over these cases.
These prosecutions 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 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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Ohio drug dealing couple pleads guilty to methamphetamine traffickingRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – An Ohio couple pleaded guilty today to federal drug charges, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Charley G. Myers, 37, and Tracie M. Reed, 39, both of Proctorville, entered guilty pleas to distributing methamphetamine.
Between February and September of 2016, Myers and Reed travelled on several occasions to Texas and returned to the Tri-State area with at least a kilogram of methamphetamine on each trip. The pair would then sell the methamphetamine to customers in Putnam and Kanawha counties in West Virginia, as well as to customers in the Proctorville area. Laboratory results indicated that the methamphetamine seized from the couple was close to 100% pure.
Myers and Reed each face a minimum of five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on August 7, 2017.
The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney R. Gregory McVey is responsible for these prosecutions. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the plea hearings.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
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Huntington man pleads guilty to federal heroin conspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man involved with others in distributing heroin in 2016 pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Philip Reed Starkey, 48, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute heroin.
From the summer of 2016 to September of 2016, Starkey participated with Tonya Lynn Thompson and others in a conspiracy to distribute heroin in the Huntington area. During this time period, Starkey and Thompson received heroin on consignment. Starkey and Thompson would then distribute the drugs and return the proceeds back to the heroin source.
On September 5, 2016, a deputy with the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department seized $6,407 in cash from Starkey and Thompson during a traffic stop on U.S. Route 60 in Huntington after agents received information they would be delivering the money that day. Starkey and Thompson admitted that the money was proceeds from drug trafficking and that they were delivering the cash back to the heroin source. Starkey further admitted that he and Thompson were responsible for distributing up to 400 grams of heroin during the conspiracy.
Starkey faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 7, 2017. Thompson previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin and faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced, also on August 7, 2017.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
This prosecution is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down 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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Detroit man sentenced to federal prison for heroin chargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man involved in heroin trafficking in 2015 and 2016 in the Huntington area was sentenced today to two years and three months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jimmy Cheatham, also known as “Shoe,” 24, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin.
On August 16, 2016, Cheatham was arrested on an active federal warrant for conspiracy to distribute heroin. In a search incident to arrest, agents with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force located approximately six grams of heroin concealed on his person. Agents also located approximately $1,800 in cash, which represented the proceeds from heroin sales. The arrest stemmed from an investigation of Cheatham and others which began in 2015.
Cheatham admitted that on August 5, 2015, he sold over 16 grams of heroin to a confidential informant working for the Task Force. The drug deal took place at 1826 Old 16th Street Road, where the informant exchanged $2,000 for the heroin. In a July 9, 2015, search of 126 Olive Street in Huntington, Task Force agents located Cheatham and two of his co-conspirators inside the residence. Agents recovered $6,314 in cash, along with an AR-15 style firearm concealed in the attic.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.
This case is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down 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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U.S. Attorney's Office and DEA announce National Prescription Drug Take Back Day collection sitesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Charleston District Office announced today the location of collection sites for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The event provides safe venues for West Virginians to responsibly dispose of prescription drugs. National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is on Saturday, April 29, 2017, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Anyone can properly dispose of prescription medication by visiting one of several conveniently located collection sites throughout West Virginia.
“West Virginians know that opioid abuse is at a crisis level. Our state leads the nation in drug overdose deaths, and the widespread prevalence of unused prescription medication is a significant contributor to the problem,” stated United States Attorney Carol Casto. “Prescription Drug Take Back Day is an opportunity to get rid of a substantial part of the pain pill supply available for abuse. I urge everyone to do their part to fight drug abuse by going to a collection site and safely disposing of unused, expired, and dangerous prescription medication.”
“Last year, we lost more than 52,000 Americans to drug overdoses, more than 33,000 of those were from opioids. This program gives West Virginians an opportunity to rid their households of unwanted prescription medications without question. These are prescriptions that won’t have a chance to get diverted in an illegal manner,” stated Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Gourley of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Charleston District Office.
Nearby collection sites can be found by visiting www.dea.gov, clicking on the “Take-Back Site Locations” icon, and searching by zip code, county, city, and state. Another option for locating collection sites is to call 800-882-9539. West Virginians have the option of visiting over 90 sites throughout the state to dispose of prescription drugs. Only pills and other solids, such as patches, can be brought to collection sites – liquids, needles, or other sharps will not be accepted.
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Boone County woman sentenced to over four years in federal prison for heroin crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Boone County woman who was part of a heroin trafficking ring was sentenced today to four years and three months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Joyce Ann Zornes, 33, of Seth, previously pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of heroin.
In 2013, Daymeon Damar Johnson, 31, of Detroit, came to Boone County where he met Zornes. Shortly after meeting, Johnson and Zornes began selling oxycodone pills from a residence on Harper Lane in Seth. In early 2015, Johnson and Zornes began selling heroin supplied by sources in Detroit. Zornes sold heroin to local users and also made trips to Detroit in order to bring the heroin back to Boone County. In July 2015, members of the U.S. Route 119 Drug and Violent Crime Task Force began making purchases of heroin from local dealers being supplied by Johnson or Zornes. On March 22, 2016, Zornes was stopped in Jackson County while transporting heroin from Michigan. Two days later, in an effort to obtain bond money for Zornes, Johnson recruited Gregory Runion to sell an SKS assault rifle. Runion sold the rifle to an informant working for the Task Force.
On August 1 and 2, 2016, Task Force officers used an informant to buy heroin directly from Johnson and Zornes at their residence. Officers executed search warrants at the residence and seized more than 40 grams of heroin, ecstasy tablets, cash, and distribution paraphernalia.
This long-term investigation of heroin trafficking in Boone County has led to several convictions and prison sentences. Johnson was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison. Christopher Priestly, of Bloomingrose, was sentenced to two and a half years in federal prison for distribution of heroin. Robert Donavan Buzzard, also of Bloomingrose, was sentenced to a year and nine months in federal prison for distribution of heroin. Runion, of Seth, was sentenced to a year and a half in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Darrell Woodside, of Detroit, pleaded guilty to using a telephone to facilitate heroin trafficking and faces up to four years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 22, 2017. Other individuals implicated in this investigation have also been prosecuted in state court.
The U.S. Route 119 Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence and is presiding over these cases.
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 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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Cross Lanes felon sentenced to federal prison for drug crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Cross Lanes man who sold drugs while on federal supervised release was sentenced to prison today, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Darrell Spicer, 60, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin. In today’s hearing, he was sentenced to six years in federal prison for that offense. He was also sentenced to an additional year and a half in prison for violating his federal supervised release. The sentences will be served consecutively.
Spicer admitted that on June 15, 2016, he sold a substance that he believed was heroin to a confidential informant working with the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department. That substance later field-tested positive for fentanyl. Based on that controlled drug buy, a detective from the Sheriff’s Tactical Operations Patrol (STOP) Team obtained a search warrant for Spicer’s residence in Cross Lanes. While searching Spicer’s residence, officers discovered heroin, fentanyl, and over $7,000 in cash, which included pre-recorded buy money used in the controlled purchase. Spicer was present during the search and admitted the recovered drugs belonged to him and that the money was from illegal drug activity.
The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department’s STOP Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.
This prosecution is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down 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 area physician pleads guilty to federal oxycodone crimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A jury trial that began yesterday in federal court in Beckley on a 22-count indictment against a Beckley area physician ended today with the defendant’s guilty plea to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Dr. Michael Kostenko, D.O., 61, of Daniels, entered his guilty plea to distribution of oxycodone not for legitimate medical purposes and beyond the bounds of medical practice. The crime Kostenko pleaded guilty to was contained in Count Seven of the Superseding Indictment.
Kostenko admitted that he owned and operated the Coal Country Clinic, a medical practice located in his Raleigh County residence. Kostenko also admitted that on December 9, 2013, he distributed oxycodone, a powerful pain medication, not for legitimate medical purposes. Specifically, Kostenko admitted that on that day, approximately 271 patients arrived at Kostenko’s residence seeking oxycodone prescriptions. Kostenko additionally admitted that his staff collected over $20,000 cash from the patients that he later deposited in a local bank in amounts of less than $10,000. Kostenko further admitted that on that day he wrote over 370 oxycodone prescriptions totaling 22,255 pain pills. Moreover, Kostenko admitted that he wrote these prescriptions from his upstairs bedroom, without seeing any of the patients, and that his staff handed out the prescriptions. Finally, Kostenko admitted that by writing the oxycodone prescriptions, he acted beyond the bounds of professional medical practice.
“West Virginia is at the epicenter of a drug crisis that is ravaging our state and has left us with the highest overdose rate in the nation. Doctors are entrusted with prescribing authority in order to heal and protect patients, not betray that trust by contributing to prescription drug addiction,” stated United States Attorney Carol Casto. “My office will continue working with law enforcement to aggressively investigate and prosecute doctors who illegally prescribe the pain pills that have devastated our communities.”
Kostenko faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million when he is sentenced on August 23, 2017.
The investigation of Kostenko and his Coal Country Clinic was led by the West Virginia State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Office of Inspector General, United States Department of Health and Human Services. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.
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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Huntington woman pleads guilty to federal heroin conspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington woman involved with others in distributing heroin in 2016 pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Tonya Lynn Thompson, 44, entered her guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute heroin.
From the summer of 2016 to September of 2016, Thompson admitted that she participated in the conspiracy to distribute heroin in the Huntington area. During this time period, Thompson and another individual received heroin on consignment. Thompson and others would then distribute the heroin and return the proceeds back to the heroin source.
On September 5, 2016, a deputy with the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department seized $6,407 in cash from Thompson and another individual during a traffic stop on U.S. Route 60 in Huntington after law enforcement received information they would be delivering money that day. Thompson admitted that this money was proceeds from drug trafficking and that they were delivering the cash back to the heroin source. Thompson further admitted that she and others were responsible for distributing up to 400 grams of heroin during her involvement in the conspiracy.
Thompson faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on August 7, 2017.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
This prosecution is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down 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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Former office manager of Mountain State Justice sentenced to over four years in federal prison for embezzling more than $1.5 million and tax evasionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The former office manager of Mountain State Justice, Inc., was sentenced today to four years and six months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Kim Cooper, 55, of St. Albans, pled guilty to wire fraud and tax evasion on January 23, 2017, admitting that she had embezzled over $1.5 million from Mountain State Justice and evaded the payment of income taxes owed to the Internal Revenue Service.
Cooper began working in the late 1990’s in the Charleston office of Mountain State Justice, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides legal services for indigent and low-income West Virginia residents in civil cases. Cooper became the office manager and her duties included overseeing the daily operations of the Charleston office and making deposits of checks in Mountain State Justice’s bank accounts. In late June 2004, she opened an account at WesBanco Bank in the name of Mountain State Justice, which no one else at Mountain State Justice knew about. She began stealing checks made out to Mountain State Justice that were payment for attorneys’ fees and deposited the stolen checks in the secret WesBanco account. Cooper wrote checks from the secret account, payable to a close family member, with notations that made the checks appear to be payment for legitimate business expenses of Mountain State Justice. Cooper endorsed those checks by forging the signature of the close family member, and then deposited the checks in another account at a different bank. Cooper then transferred the stolen funds and used them to pay rent, make car payments, make credit card payments, and pay for other personal expenses.
Cooper also hid her crime by omitting these stolen checks from the cash log used to record all incoming monies and by hiding all incoming mail from WesBanco. She perpetuated her fraud scheme by sending false income statements to the board of directors of Mountain State Justice that underreported the income of the organization. Finally, Cooper evaded income tax she owed on the embezzled money. Cooper was able to keep this up for almost 12 years before the scheme finally ended in late March 2016, when she was interviewed by federal law enforcement agents. Her employment was terminated shortly thereafter.
The FBI and the IRS - Criminal Investigation division conducted the investigation. First Assistant United States Attorney Philip H. Wright is in charge of the prosecution. United State District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.
Judge Copenhaver deemed the offense “particularly egregious” because Cooper committed this crime after she was convicted in Wood County in the late 1990’s for a financial crime that also involved embezzlement. Judge Copenhaver commented on the need to deter others from engaging in similar conduct as he sentenced her to the upper end of the sentencing guideline range, which was 46 to 57 months.
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Charleston felon pleads guilty to assault and gun crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal gun charge and assaulting a federal officer, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Taurean Amadeus Johnson, 30, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm and assaulting a federal officer after a court appearance.
Johnson admitted that on January 16, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Johnson’s residence and on a vehicle parked in front of the residence. Officers found a Lorcin L380 semiautomatic pistol in the vehicle. Johnson admitted that the gun belonged to him. Johnson also admitted in a statement to law enforcement that he acquired at least two other handguns, which were also recovered. Johnson was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of 2009 convictions in Cabell County Circuit Court for first degree robbery, transporting a controlled substance into the state, and delivery of crack.
Johnson further admitted to assaulting a federal officer. On January 17, 2017, Johnson appeared before the United States Magistrate Judge in Charleston for an initial appearance. When the hearing ended, Johnson became combative leaving the courtroom. Johnson admitted that while being placed in a holding cell, he began choking a deputy of the United States Marshals Service by pulling on his neck tie. The Marshals Service regained control of Johnson through physical restraint.
Johnson faces up to 18 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on July 13, 2017.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
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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U.S. Attorney's Office joins crime victim advocates for Walk/Run for Justice and community fairRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of West Virginia, along with federal, state and local advocates of crime victims’ rights, will join for the Walk/Run for Justice 5K and Crime Victims’ Rights Fair. The free event takes place rain or shine on Friday, April 21, 2017, from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. at Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston. Every April since 2001, the Walk/Run for Justice and community fair serve to raise awareness about crime victims’ issues and rights, while also highlighting the important resources and services available to victims of crime in our area.
Registration for walkers and runners is free and begins at 11:00 A.M. The Walk/Run for Justice will begin at noon. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in both men’s and women’s divisions. The Spirit Award will also be presented to the team with the most participants. There will be free lunch while supplies last and a free t-shirt for the first 100 participants. For more information, please contact Marla Willcox Eddy at 304-340-3676.
WHO:
- United States Attorney Carol Casto
- Operation Reach Out committee members
- Other federal, state and local officials
- Staff representing the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of West Virginia and other offices and organizations involved in working with crime victims
WHAT:
- Walk/Run for Justice 5K and Crime Victims' Rights Fair
WHERE:
- Haddad Riverfront Park - 600 Kanawaha Boulevard, East, in Charleston
WHEN:
- Friday, April 21, 20217, from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. The Walk/Run for Justice begins at noon and free registration starts at 11:00 A.M.
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Final defendants sentenced to federal prison for roles in California-to-West Virginia drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Three defendants were sentenced today to federal prison for their roles in a California-to-West Virginia methamphetamine conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. The defendants sentenced today previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Miguel Alejandro Robles-Ibarra, 31, a Mexican national, was sentenced to 11 years and three months in federal prison. Rafael Garcia Serrato, 43, and Cesar Garcia, 20, a father and son from Los Angeles, were also sentenced. Serrato was sentenced to 11 years and three months in federal prison. Garcia was sentenced to six years in federal prison.
Robles-Ibarra admitted that from February 2016 to March 19, 2016, he was involved in a drug conspiracy with multiple individuals. Robles-Ibarra also admitted that near the end of February 2016, he helped package ten pound of crystal methamphetamine in a spare tire in the trunk of a vehicle for transport to Kentucky. Two females involved in the conspiracy drove the vehicle from California to meet Brian Ashby, a codefendant residing in Charleston who traveled to Kentucky to pick up the drugs. Robles-Ibarra also admitted that he received a share of the money paid by Ashby for the drugs. Robles-Ibarra further admitted that in March 2016, he helped package another delivery to Ashby - 10 pounds of crystal methamphetamine concealed in the spare tire of a vehicle, this time for transport from California to Huntington. Robles-Ibarra never received any money for the March drug shipment because he was arrested in West Virginia where he had traveled to pick up more money from Ashby. Law enforcement found a fingerprint matching Robles-Ibarra on the spare tire in which the crystal methamphetamine was packaged.
Serrato and Garcia admitted that in March 2016, they, along with other codefendants, arranged to transport five pounds of crystal methamphetamine from California to West Virginia. Serrato and Garcia further admitted that they packed a vehicle with the drugs. Serrato and Garcia also admitted that they maintained telephone contact with the vehicle as it traveled to West Virginia to keep apprised of the progress of the drug delivery. Garcia admitted that on March 25, 2016, he flew from Los Angeles to Huntington to collect money for the drugs being delivered to West Virginia. On March 26, 2016, law enforcement stopped the vehicle transporting the crystal methamphetamine in South Charleston and recovered the drugs.
“Although my office remains focused on battling the opiates that are plaguing our communities, we have not lost sight of other equally dangerous drugs,” stated United States Attorney Casto. “These prosecutions should affirm our commitment to fighting drug trafficking organizations regardless of the poison that they peddle.”
This prosecution is the result of a multi-agency investigation that led to an eight-count indictment implicating several defendants and resulting in lengthy prison sentences. For conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, Velarian Sylvester Carter, of Beckley, was sentenced to 20 years, Daniel Ortiz-Rivera, a Mexican national, was sentenced to 12 years and seven months, Miguel Tafolla-Montoya, a Mexican national, was sentenced to 10 years and 11 months, and Brian Ashby, of Kanawha County, was sentenced to four and a half years. Kelly Newcomb, of Nevada, and Danielle Dessaray Estrada, of Los Angeles, were both sentenced to a year and a day for interstate travel in furtherance of a drug crime. Marco Antonio Bojorquez-Rojas, a Mexican national residing in California, was sentenced to a year and a half for interstate travel in furtherance of a drug crime.
The FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Charleston Police Department, and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is in charge of these prosecutions. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentences and presided over these cases.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
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Ohio man responsible for Huntington overdoses sentenced to over 18 years in federal prison for heroin crimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – An Ohio man who was responsible for numerous overdoses in Huntington in August 2016 was sentenced today to 18 years and four months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Bruce Lamar Griggs, also known as “Ben” and “Benz,” 22, of Akron, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of heroin.
On the afternoon of August 15, 2016, Griggs went to the area of 914 Marcum Terrace in Huntington and sold heroin to a number of individuals. Several of those individuals provided information to the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force indicating that they bought what they believed to be heroin from someone they knew as “Benz” or “Ben.” Ultimately, those individuals identified Griggs as “Benz” or “Ben.” Approximately 26 individuals who bought heroin from Griggs that afternoon suffered overdoses very shortly after using the drug. Many of the overdose victims required medical attention, which involved taking blood and urine samples. Laboratory tests on those samples indicated the presence of heroin, fentanyl, and carfentanil. Carfentanil is an opioid that is 10,000 times stronger than morphine and is used as an elephant tranquilizer. Griggs admitted that he was responsible for the overdoses and agreed that his sentence could be increased as a result.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force led the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney R. Gregory McVey is in charge of the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers 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 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 pleads guilty to possession of stolen mailRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Kanawha County man pleaded guilty today to possessing stolen mail, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jason Lee Spradling, 34, of Pinch, faces up to five years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine when he is sentenced on July 5, 2017. As part of his plea agreement, he has also agreed to pay restitution to the victims as ordered.
Spradling admitted that he possessed a large quantity of stolen mail, and that he knew the mail in his possession had been stolen. Specifically, Spradling admitted to stealing a box of checks from a mailbox and attempting to cash one of the checks in December 2015. Spradling also admitted that in July 2015, he was found in possession of hundreds of pieces of mail stolen from the Elkview area. Spradling further admitted that he had no legal right to possess the mail, nor to cash any checks contained within the stolen mail.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
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Detroit woman pleads guilty to federal heroin chargeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit woman who was caught in Huntington with heroin in December 2016 pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Ebony Inez-Latee Johnson, 43, entered her guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute heroin.
On December 4, 2016, an officer with the Huntington Police Department conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle Johnson was driving at the intersection of 9th Avenue and 10th Street in Huntington. During the stop, the officer located a bag containing approximately 23 grams of heroin that was concealed in Johnson’s jacket pocket. The heroin was packaged in 43 individually wrapped bags, and Johnson admitted at her plea hearing that the heroin was intended for distribution.
Johnson further admitted at the hearing that, on April 14, 2016, a trooper with the Michigan State Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle operated by Johnson in Taylor, Michigan. The trooper seized approximately 124 grams of heroin and 135 thirty mg oxycodone tablets from the vehicle.
Johnson faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on July 31, 2017.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force and the Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation, with assistance from the Michigan State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief 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.
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Detroit man pleads guilty to federal heroin crimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man who was among a group arrested for distributing heroin in Huntington in 2015 pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Damond Idress Robinson-King, 23, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
On October 5, 2015, members of the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted a search at 1826 Old 16th Street Road in Huntington after an investigation revealed multiple individuals from Detroit were using the residence to store and distribute heroin. During the search, agents located Robinson-King and two other individuals inside the residence. Agents also seized approximately 306 grams of heroin and $51,479 in United States currency. Robinson-King admitted at his plea hearing that he and the other individuals intended to sell the heroin.
Robinson-King faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on July 31, 2017.
The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
This prosecution is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down 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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Cross Lanes felon pleads guilty to federal gun crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Cross Lanes man pleaded guilty today to a federal gun charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Fred Wallace Hammon, Jr., 36, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Hammon admitted that on September 1, 2016, he possessed Remington, Model 742 Woodsmaster, .30-06 caliber rifle. Hammon was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of felony convictions in Kanawha County Circuit Court in 2000 for two counts of aggravated robbery and in 2011 for wanton endangerment, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possessing a firearm on the grounds of an educational facility.
Hammon faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on July 13, 2017.
The Kanawha 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. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
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 felon sentenced to nearly six years in federal prison for gun crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man was sentenced today to five years and 10 months in federal prison for a gun crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Miguel Quinones, 38, previously pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On October 19, 2013, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a unit in a storage facility in Dunbar. Quinones admitted that he had rented the storage unit, and that law enforcement discovered a number of his belongings within the storage unit. Quinones also admitted that among the items law enforcement found were two firearms that belonged to him, a Harrington & Richardson 20 gauge shotgun and a Marlin, Model 120 Revelation Western Auto Supply Company .22 caliber rifle. Quinones was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2000 felony conviction in Fayette County Circuit Court for second degree murder.
The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is handling the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin 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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Roane County man sentenced to federal prison for gun chargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Roane County man was sentenced today to two years in federal prison for a gun crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. William Leon Rhodes, 50, of Gandeeville, was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm by a federal jury in January following a one-and-a-half-day jury trial. Rhodes was also sentenced to an additional eight months in federal prison for a violation of his supervised release. The sentences will be served consecutively.
During the trial, witnesses for the United States testified that on June 17, 2016, Rhodes gave consent to law enforcement to search his residence. Officers discovered a loaded Heritage .22 caliber revolver under the pillow in Rhodes’ bedroom. Officers additionally discovered a box for the gun on the night stand in the bedroom and a box of .22 caliber ammunition in the living room. The evidence showed that in an interview with law enforcement after his arrest, Rhodes admitted that he knew the gun was in his bedroom and he referred to the firearm as “my pistol.”
Rhodes was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 1990 conviction for grand larceny in Jackson County Circuit Court and a 2012 conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm in the United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia. Additionally, Rhodes was on federal supervised release at the time he possessed the Heritage revolver.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Roane County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Meredith George Thomas and R. Gregory McVey are in charge of the prosecution and tried the case before a federal jury. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., presided over the trial and imposed the sentence.
This case was 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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Mount Hope man sentenced for federal gun crimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Mount Hope man was sentenced today to two years of probation for a gun charge, with the first six months to be served on home confinement, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. David Pagan, 22, previously pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting making a false statement in acquiring a firearm.
Pagan admitted that on September 26, 2015, he persuaded another individual to purchase a Taurus .45 caliber semiautomatic pistol for him from Shooter’s Roost in Beckley. That individual put his own name on the form required by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to falsely indicate that he was the actual purchaser.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Beckley Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John L. File is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger 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 woman pleads guilty to federal heroin chargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston heroin dealer pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Tara Shepherd, 26, entered her guilty plea to distribution of heroin.
Shepherd admitted that on August 26, 2016, she sold heroin a confidential informant working with Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. The drug deal took place at her apartment on Washington Avenue in Charleston.
Shepherd faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on June 26, 2017.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
This case is being prosecuted as part of 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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Charleston felon pleads guilty to federal gun crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal gun crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Shon Wayne Cobbs, 45, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On February 3, 2013, Cobbs shot a .40 caliber pistol inside his kitchen three times during an argument with a woman who was standing in the kitchen doorway. The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department arrested Cobbs at the residence without further incident. While executing a search warrant, deputies located a Beretta .40 caliber pistol, three spent shell casings, and bullet fragments from the kitchen. A spent bullet was also recovered from the adjacent living room. Furthermore, deputies seized an additional 16 firearms from several locations throughout the residence.
Cobbs was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because he was convicted in 2008 of the felony offense of unlawful wounding in Kanawha County Circuit Court after a jury found him guilty of assaulting a woman and breaking her arm by twisting it behind her back.
In August 2013, Cobbs pleaded guilty to wanton endangerment in Kanawha County Circuit Court as a result of the same conduct giving rise to the federal prosecution. He was sentenced to home confinement.
Cobbs faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on July 6, 2017.
The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
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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Sissonville felon who stole seven rifles pleads guilty to federal gun crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Sissonville man pleaded guilty today to a federal gun crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jeffrey Phelix, 32, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Phelix admitted that on October 25, 2016, he broke into a garage at the residence of a licensed firearms dealer and stole seven rifles. One of the rifles Phelix stole had a suppressor attached, which functions as a silencer to reduce the noise from firing the gun and is illegal to possess without the registration required by the National Firearms Act. Phelix was arrested after his fingerprint was recovered from the window of the garage. Phelix was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2011 felony conviction in Kanawha County Circuit Court for burglary by breaking and entering.
Phelix faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 28, 2017.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Charleston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is in charge of 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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Wyoming County man pleads guilty to possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. - A Wyoming County man faces up to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty yesterday to a child pornography crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Eddie Dwaine Justice, Jr., 30, of Hanover, entered his guilty plea to possession of child pornography.
Justice admitted that in July 2016, he possessed over 600 images and videos of minors engaged in sexual acts. Many of the images and videos depict prepubescent minors. The images and videos were located on his personal computer found in his residence. The investigation also revealed that Justice was using a peer-to-peer file sharing program to download, receive, and distribute child pornography.
“This case should send a clear message – we will use every tool available to prosecute those who wish to do harm to children,” stated United States Attorney Casto. “There are significant consequences for child pornography crimes and we will continue working with our law enforcement partners to protect our communities and to hold those who victimize children accountable.”
The sentencing is scheduled for August 2, 2017.
The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Eric Bacaj is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.
This case is being brought as part of an ongoing initiative of the United States Attorney’s Office to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.
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Greenbrier County man pleads guilty to federal drug crimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. - A Greenbrier County man pleaded guilty today to a federal oxymorphone crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Justin Wade Bradley, 24, of Alderson, entered his guilty plea to distribution of oxymorphone.
Bradley admitted that on October 21, 2016, he sold oxymorphone to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place in Ronceverte. Bradley further admitted that he distributed approximately 75 oxymorphone pills between the summer of 2016 and November of 2016.
Bradley faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 2, 2017.
The Greenbrier Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John L. File is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.
This case is being prosecuted under the Greenbrier Valley Heroin and Pill Initiative 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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