Southern District of West Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Detroit Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Huntington Heroin RingRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man who participated in a conspiracy to distribute heroin in Huntington in 2013 pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Steven Edward Lewis, also known as “Rico,” 27, pleaded guilty before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
Beginning in the summer of 2013, Lewis participated in a conspiracy with Christopher Lamarr-Shawn Harris, Denzel Lamar Bunkley, Jakaiser Wesley Jackson, Brandon S. Keaton and others, to distribute heroin primarily in West Huntington. As part of his guilty plea, Lewis admitted he was recruited by Harris to travel from Detroit to Huntington to assist in heroin distributions. Lewis also admitted to distributing heroin in West Huntington, transporting heroin between various locations, and transporting cash proceeds from heroin distributions from Huntington to Detroit.
On December 31, 2013, officers with the Huntington Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit executed a search warrant at an apartment located at 1416 Jefferson Avenue in West Huntington. Officers seized approximately 413 grams of heroin and $12,349 in cash during the search. Officers also arrested Lewis, Harris and Bunkley, who were located inside the apartment.
Harris, Bunkley and Jackson, all of Detroit, previously pleaded guilty to their roles in the conspiracy and will be sentenced in October 2014. Keaton, of Huntington, was sentenced yesterday to 15 months in federal prison for his role.
Lewis faces five to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 14, 2014.
The Huntington Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the West Virginia State Police, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Marshals Service all participated in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is in charge of the prosecution.
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 heroin and prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiates, including heroin, in communities across the Southern District.
West Huntington Man Sentenced for Role in Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A West Huntington man was sentenced today to 15 months in federal prison for his role in a heroin distribution conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Brandon S. Keaton, 28, pleaded guilty in April 2014 to conspiracy to distribute a quantity of heroin before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers in Huntington.
Beginning in the summer of 2013, Keaton participated in a conspiracy along with Christopher Lamarr-Shawn Harris, Denzel Lamar Bunkley, Jakaiser Wesely Jackson, and others, to distribute heroin primarily in West Huntington. On December 30, 2013, Keaton distributed heroin to a confidential informant in the 1400 block of Jefferson Avenue in West Huntington. After the distribution, Keaton was observed entering an apartment located at 1416 Jefferson Avenue.
On December 31, 2013, officers with the Huntington Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit executed a search warrant at the Jefferson Avenue apartment. Officers seized approximately 413 grams of heroin and $12,349 in United States currency during the search. Keaton was arrested on January 26, 2014, and admitted to officers that he participated with others in the conspiracy by distributing heroin in West Huntington from the apartment over a six-month period.
Harris, Bunkley, and Jackson all previously pleaded guilty to their roles in the conspiracy and are scheduled to be sentenced in October 2014.
The Huntington Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the West Virginia State Police, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Marshals Service all participated in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
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 heroin and prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiates, including heroin, in communities across the Southern District.
Men Plead Guilty to Lying About Roles in Arch Coal Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W. Va. – Ronald Barnette, 53, of Holden, West Virginia, and Gary Griffith, 62, of Oceana, West Virginia, both pleaded guilty today to making a materially false statement in a federal matter, U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin announced. Barnette and Griffith now each face up to five years in prison. Barnette admitted to lying about paying kickbacks to the general manager of Arch Coal’s Mountain Laurel mining complex, located in Logan County, while Griffith admitted to lying about receiving kickbacks as an employee of Arch Coal.
Barnette owned and operated Mining Repair Specialist, Inc., which did rebuild work on miners and bolters at the Mountain Laurel complex for several years. From 2009 through sometime in 2010, Barnette admitted that he paid approximately $300,000 in kickbacks to a high level Arch employee, who is identified in other court documents as mine general manager David Runyon, so that Runyon would continue hiring Barnette’s company to do rebuild work at the mine. Barnette further admitted that he lied to agents regarding paying cash kickbacks. When asked by Internal Revenue Service agents, along with investigators from the West Virginia State Police (WVSP), whether Barnette had ever paid cash kickbacks to Runyon, Barnette falsely stated that he did not.
Barnette has agreed to forfeit $400,000 to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in connection with the kickback scheme.
Griffith, the former maintenance manager at Mountain Laurel, admitted that since 2002 he received cash kickbacks in the amount of at least $250,000 on behalf of himself and Runyon from an individual associated with the North American Rebuild Company, Inc. (NARCO). NARCO provided shuttle cars to Arch Coal’s Ben Creek mine and the Mountain Laurel mining complex. Griffith admitted that an individual, on behalf of NARCO, paid kickbacks to Griffith and Runyon for each shuttle car ordered at the mines. When Griffith was asked by federal agents about receiving kickbacks either personally or on behalf of Runyon, he denied it.
Griffith has agreed to pay $250,000 in restitution to Arch Coal, Inc., in connection with the kickback scheme.
Barnette and Griffith entered their guilty pleas before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston. Both are scheduled to be sentenced on October 20, 2014, in Charleston.
Today’s guilty pleas stem from an investigation being conducted by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the WVSP. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith George Thomas is in charge of the prosecution.
Two Plead Guilty to Federal Heroin ChargesRead the Press Release
Alvis Porter admits to paying kickbacks; pleads guilty to tax crime
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that two defendants pleaded guilty to drug charges before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger. Amanda Nicole Canaday, 26, of White Sulphur Springs, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin, admitting that on August 31, 2013, she possessed 56 packets of heroin in her apartment in White Sulphur Springs. Canaday further admitted that she intended to sell the heroin packets. She faces up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine when she is sentenced on October 30, 2014.
Joshua Daniel Osborne, 31, of Lima, Ohio, pleaded guilty to traveling in interstate commerce to facilitate an unlawful activity. Osborne admitted that on September 1, 2013, he traveled by car from Alderson, West Virginia, to Columbus, Ohio, obtained a quantity of heroin, and returned with it to Alderson, where he placed quantities of heroin into capsules, intending to sell them. He further admitted that he had made other trips to Columbus to obtain heroin, which he then sold in Alderson. Osborne faces up to five years in prison and a fine of $250,000 when he is sentenced on October 30, 2014.
These cases were investigated by the Greenbrier Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The prosecutions are being handled by Assistant United States Attorney John File. The cases are being prosecuted under the Greenbrier County Heroin and Pill Initiative, part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and the distribution of heroin.
Logan Man Admits Involvement in Arch Coal Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
Alvis Porter admits to paying kickbacks; pleads guilty to tax crime
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A 61-year-old Logan County man faces up to five years in prison after pleading guilty today to failing to collect, account for, and pay over federal employment taxes, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced. Alvis Porter, of Holden, West Virginia, also admitted to paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in kickbacks to the general manager of Arch Coal’s Mountain Laurel mining complex, located in Logan County.
Porter owned and operated a company called Quality Oil, Inc., which did construction work at the Mountain Laurel complex for several years. In 2009, Porter admitted, he began paying kickbacks to Mountain Laurel’s general manager, who is identified in other court documents as David Runyon, so that Runyon would continue hiring Porter’s company to do construction work at the mine. Initially, Porter paid Runyon $5,000 a month in kickbacks, a sum that later grew to $10,000 a month. Porter estimates that over four years, he paid Runyon approximately $400,000 in kickbacks.
Porter also admitted that in 2013, he paid a Quality Oil employee cash wages, under the table, so that Porter could avoid withholding federal income, Social Security and Medicare taxes for that employee. Porter paid the employee more than $63,000 in cash for half of 2013. Failing to collect and pay over federal employment taxes is a crime.
Porter has agreed to forfeit $350,000 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in connection with the kickback scheme and pay the IRS $29,851.48 in restitution for his failure to withhold employment taxes.
Porter entered today’s guilty plea before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston, who is scheduled to sentence Porter on October 16, 2014, in Charleston.
Today’s plea stems from an investigation being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, IRS Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and West Virginia State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith George Thomas is in charge of the prosecution.Eight more guilty plea hearings are scheduled for other defendants associated with the Arch kickback scheme:
United States v. Gary Griffith, scheduled for 1:30 p.m., July 14, 2014;
United States v. Ronald Barnette, scheduled for 3:00 p.m., July 14, 2014;
United States v. Scott Ellis, scheduled for 10:00 a.m., July 16, 2014;
United States v. Scott Herndon, scheduled for 10:30 a.m., July 16, 2014;
United States v. David Herndon, scheduled for 10:30 a.m., July 17, 2014;
United States v. Chadwick Lusk, scheduled for 10:30 a.m., July 21, 2014;
United States v. James Evans III, scheduled for 10:30 a.m., August 4, 2014; and
United States v. David Runyon, scheduled for 10:00 a.m., August 7, 2014.Two Defendants Appear in Federal Court in Beckley on Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Pill Dealer Gets 12 Years in Federal Prison
Beckley, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that two defendants appeared before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger on drug charges in federal court in Beckley. Michael Harshaw, 38, of Hinton, was sentenced to 10 years in prison after previously pleading guilty to using a telephone on October 3, 2012 to set up a transaction in which he distributed five oxycodone pills to a person cooperating with authorities. He also admitted that on October 10, 2012, he possessed a quantity of pills containing alprazolam, also known as xanax. Both offenses occurred in Hinton. Harshaw received an additional 2 years in prison for violating the conditions of supervised release imposed in connection with a previous federal drug conviction. His case was investigated by the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John File.
Tiffany Rose Arbogast, 24, of Lewisburg, pled guilty to distributing heroin in Lewisburg to a person cooperating with authorities on December 15, 2012. Arborgast also admitted that she had distributed between five and ten grams of heroin over a period of time. She faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000 when she is sentenced on October 23, 2014. This case was investigated by the Greenbrier Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force in connection with the Greenbrier County Heroin and Pill Initiative. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney John File.
These cases are part of an ongoing effort 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 the distribution of heroin in southern West Virginia.
St. Albans Felon Sentenced to Two and A Half Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Charleston, W.Va. - Lucas R. Lynch, 31, of St. Albans, West Virginia was sentenced to 30 months in prison for being a felon in possession of firearms, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today. Lynch, who is prohibited from possessing guns because of a 2003 felony conviction, conspired with Keary Drake of Charleston to sell stolen firearms and split the proceeds.
On September 8, 2013, Drake and Lynch drove to a St. Albans home where Mr. Lynch picked up two guns he had placed there previously. While driving through St. Albans, a St. Albans Patrolman attempted to pull over Drake for a traffic violation. Both guns--a rifle and a shotgun--were in Drake’s car at the time beside Lynch. Drake did not immediately pull over. During the chase, Lynch jumped from Drake’s car around Rock Lake, South Charleston and was injured when Drake drove over Lynch’s ankle. Drake continued to drive away from police at high speed until his car engine stalled in South Charleston. Drake previously pled guilty and was also sentenced as a minor participant in the scheme. The firearms were returned to the lawful owner.
The St. Albans Police Department conducted the investigation, assisted by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms and Tobacco Enforcement. Erik S. Goes and Jennifer Rada prosecuted the matter on behalf of the United States. Judge Thomas Johnston, United States District Judge was the presiding judge.
Logan County Man Pleads Guilty to Tax Fraud in Connection with Arch Coal Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A 52-year-old Logan County man faces up to three years in prison after admitting today to filing false tax returns, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced. Gary Roeher, of Holden, West Virginia, entered a guilty plea before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston.
Roeher admitted that on his 2010 and 2011 federal tax returns, he illegally claimed business-expense deductions for kickbacks that he paid to an Arch Coal official at the company’s Mountain Laurel Mining Complex.
Roeher and the official receiving the kickbacks stole money from Arch through a dummy invoice scheme. In the scheme, Roeher would submit bills to Arch for non-existent supplies that Roeher had purportedly provided to the company. The Arch official on the other end of the scheme would then falsely certify that the supplies had been received, so that Arch’s accounting department would pay the false bills that Roeher had submitted. After he got paid by Arch, Roeher would then pay the Arch official a kickback in exchange for his participation in the scheme. It was these kickback payments that Roeher falsely claimed as legitimate business expenses on his 2010 and 2011 tax returns.
Between 2010 and 2011, Roeher paid the Known Person $35,170.60 in kickbacks. In accordance with his plea agreement, Roeher has agreed to forfeit that amount to the Internal Revenue Service.
Arch’s Mount Laurel Mining Complex is located in Sharples, Logan County, West Virginia.
Roeher also admitted he deducted approximately $43,000 as a business expense for his company, CM Supply, when Roeher actually used those funds to install an in-ground swimming pool at his residence.
Roeher is scheduled to be sentenced on October 15, 2014, at 2:00 pm, in Charleston.
Nine more guilty plea hearings are scheduled for other defendants associated with the Arch kickback scheme:
United States v. Alvis Porter, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on July 10, 2014;
United States v. Gary Griffith, scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on July 14, 2014;
United States v. Ronald Barnette, scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on July 14, 2014;
United States v. Scott Ellis, scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on July 16, 2014;
United States v. Scott Herndon, scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on July 16, 2014;
United States v. David Herndon, scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on July 17, 2014;
United States v. Chadwick Lusk, scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on July 21, 2014;
United States v. James Evans III, scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on August 4, 2014; and
United States v. David Runyon, scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on August 7, 2014.Today’s charge stems from an investigation being conducted by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the West Virginia State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith George Thomas is in charge of the prosecution.
Two Detroit Men Plead Guilty in Huntington Heroin BustRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two Detroit men who participated in a conspiracy to distribute heroin in Huntington in 2013 and 2014 pleaded guilty today to federal drug charges, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Denzell Lamar Bunkley, also known as “Chotty” and “King,” 21, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, and Jakaiser Wesley Jackson, also known as “J” and “Jigga,” 21, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Both pleas were entered before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
On December 31, 2013, officers with the Huntington Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit executed a search warrant at an apartment located at 1416 Jefferson Avenue, in West Huntington. Officers seized approximately 413 grams of heroin and $12,349 in cash during the search. Officers also arrested Bunkley, Christopher Lamarr-Shawn Harris and another individual. Bunkley admitted to possessing the heroin seized for distribution and further admitted that the apartment was utilized by Harris and others as a location to prepare and distribute heroin.
On April 2, 2014, officers executed a search warrant for two rooms at the Red Roof Inn Hotel located on Route 60 in Huntington. Officers seized approximately 192 grams of heroin along with $3,000 in cash during the search. Jackson was present at the hotel just prior to the search. Jackson admitted that he was recruited by Harris in January 2014 to assist with heroin distributions in Huntington. Jackson also admitted that he, along with Harris, arranged to transport the heroin from Detroit in the days prior to the search.
Harris, also of Detroit, also pleaded guilty today to his role in the conspiracy.
Bunkley and Jackson each face five to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on October 6, 2014.
The Huntington Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the West Virginia State Police, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Marshals Service all participated in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is in charge of the prosecution.
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 heroin and prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiates, including heroin, in communities across the Southern District.
Three Lincoln County Men Sentenced for Oxycodone TraffickingRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that Joseph James Salmons was sentenced to two years in federal prison and two other men, Richard A. Mullins and John Freddie Joe Johnson, were sentenced to three years’ probation on charges relating to the distribution of oxycodone in Lincoln County. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentences.
Salmons, 24, of Hamlin, previously pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of oxycodone, admitting that on February 13, 2013, he and Mullins sold a confidential information five 30 mg oxycodone pills. Salmons also admitted to other drug sales in Lincoln County.
Mullins, 49, of West Hamlin, previously pleaded guilty to distributing oxycodone. Mullins admitted that on January 13, 2013, he sold 5 30 mg oxycodone pills to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. Mullins met the informant in the parking lot of the Blossom Junction flower shop in West Hamlin and conducted the drug deal from his car. Mullins also admitted during his plea hearing to other drug sales in Lincoln County.
Johnson, 37, also of West Hamlin, previously pleaded guilty to assisting Mullins and Salmons in selling oxycodone to a confidential informant outside of Johnson’s residence in West Hamlin, Lincoln County, in February 2013.
The Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman was in charge of the prosecution.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.
Mercer County Man Gets 8+ Years in Prison for Federal Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Johnny Richard Rowe, of Bluewell, Mercer County, West Virginia, was sentenced today to eight years and a month in prison for a federal child pornography offense, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Rowe, 61, previously pleaded guilty in January to possessing child pornography. Rowe’s sentence was handed down by Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
An investigation conducted by the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force revealed that Rowe possessed 728 images and 14 videos of child pornography. The images depict prepubescent minors and minors engaged in sexual acts. The child pornography was discovered on Rowe’s computer and on a flash drive located at his residence in Bluewell. The investigation also revealed that Rowe received and shared child pornography by using a file sharing network that allows users to download files from other people’s computers around the world.
U.S. Attorney Goodwin stated, “The exploitation of innocent children is a heinous crime. Child pornography has a highly destructive impact on the most vulnerable segment of society and my office will work diligently to ensure that criminals like Mr. Rowe are prosecuted to the fullest extent.”
The West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa Johnston handled the prosecution.
This case was prosecuted as part of U.S. Attorney Goodwin’s ongoing initiative to combat sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.
Inmate Sentenced for Possessing Homemade Knife in McDowell Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that a federal inmate was sentenced to fifteen additional months in federal prison for possessing a weapon while incarcerated. Billy Williams, 25, pleaded guilty last March, admitting that in October 2013, he possessed a homemade knife, commonly called a shank, while he was serving time at the Federal Correctional Institution at McDowell. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence and ordered that it run consecutively to the 120-month sentence that Williams is already serving for, among other offenses, assault with intent to kill while armed.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John File.
Detroit Man Pleads Guilty to Large-scale Heroin Distribution in HuntingtonRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man who led a conspiracy with other individuals to distribute heroin in Huntington in 2013 and 2014 pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Christopher Lamarr-Shawn Harris, also known as “C” and “Caesar,” 27, pleaded guilty before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers to conspiring to distribute a kilogram or more of heroin.
From at least the summer of 2013 to April 2, 2014, Harris led a conspiracy along with others, including Denzell Lamar Bunkley, Jakaiser Wesley Jackson, and Brandon S. Keaton, to distribute heroin, primarily in West Huntington. Harris recruited co-conspirators and frequently arranged for the transportation of heroin from Detroit, Michigan, to Huntington. Harris utilized multiple locations to store, prepare and distribute heroin, including the Red Roof Inn Hotel located on Route 60 in Huntington and an apartment located at 1416 Jefferson Avenue in West Huntington. In addition to Bunkley, Jackson, and Keaton, Harris also recruited local residents to assist with drug distribution.
On December 31, 2013, officers with the Huntington Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit executed a search warrant at the Jefferson Avenue apartment. Officers seized approximately 413 grams of heroin and $12,349 in cash during the search. Officers also arrested Harris, Bunkley, and another individual who were located inside the apartment.
Harris was again arrested on February 20, 2014, in Ohio by the Ohio State Highway Patrol while travelling from Huntington to Detroit. During his arrest, officers seized a total of $24,930 in cash from Harris.
Harris was arrested for a third time on April 2, 2014, after officers received information that he was again present at the Red Roof Inn in Huntington distributing heroin. Officers executed a search warrant for two rooms at the hotel and seized approximately 192 grams of heroin along with $3,000 in cash. Harris, along with Jackson, had arranged for the transportation from Detroit of the heroin seized in the days prior to the search.
As part of his guilty plea, Harris admitted to arranging for the distribution of over one kilogram of heroin, primarily in West Huntington, during the conspiracy. Harris also admitted to serving as a manager and organizer of the conspiracy and maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing heroin.
Keaton, of Huntington, previously pleaded guilty to his role in the conspiracy. Bunkley and Jackson, both of Detroit, also entered guilty pleas today.
Harris faces 10 years to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 6, 2014.
The Huntington Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the West Virginia State Police, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Marshals Service all participated in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is in charge of the prosecution.
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 heroin and prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiates, including heroin, in communities across the Southern District.
Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin and Crack Cocaine ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Jonathan Kennedy, 33, pleaded guilty today in federal court to two drug felonies – one related to his travel between Detroit, Michigan and Charleston, West Virginia, in aid of distributing heroin, and the second based on his use of a communication facility, his cellular telephone, in committing the crime of distribution of crack cocaine -- both in Charleston, West Virginia, where he resides. In June 2014, Kennedy was indicted by a grand jury on one count of distributing heroin, one count of distributing crack cocaine, one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin, one count of conspiracy to distribute oxymorphone and oxycodone, one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and one count of tampering with a witness. Kennedy faces up to nine years’ imprisonment when he is sentenced on October 14, 2014.
This case was investigated by the Charleston Police Department. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston conducted today’s guilty plea hearing.
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 and heroin trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers in communities across the Southern District.
Huntington Woman Sentenced for Role in Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington woman was sentenced today to 12 months and 1 day in federal prison for her role in a heroin distribution conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Alanna Lynn Mattison, 32, previously pleaded guilty in January 2014 to making an apartment available for use for storing and distributing heroin and oxycodone before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers in Huntington.
Between February 2013 and August 15, 2013, Mattison rented an apartment located at 522 14th Street West, in Huntington, and permitted Bobby Nelson Gulley to utilize her apartment to store and distribute heroin and oxycodone. As part of her plea agreement, Mattison admitted her involvement in a conspiracy with Gulley and Helen Louise Adkins which resulted in the transportation of heroin and oxycodone from Detroit, Michigan, to Huntington for distribution. Mattison also admitted to distributing heroin on behalf of Gulley during the conspiracy.
In August 2013, agents executed search warrants at multiple locations tied to Gulley and Mattison, recovering over 140 grams of heroin, 974 oxycodone tablets and $12,000 cash. Gulley previously pleaded guilty in connection with his involvement in the conspiracy and was sentenced in May 2014 to 63 months in federal prison.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers in communities across the Southern District.
Huntington Woman Sentenced for Role in Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington woman was sentenced today to 12 months and 1 day in federal prison for her role in a heroin distribution conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Alanna Lynn Mattison, 32, previously pleaded guilty in January 2014 to making an apartment available for use for storing and distributing heroin and oxycodone before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers in Huntington.
Between February 2013 and August 15, 2013, Mattison rented an apartment located at 522 14th Street West, in Huntington, and permitted Bobby Nelson Gulley to utilize her apartment to store and distribute heroin and oxycodone. As part of her plea agreement, Mattison admitted her involvement in a conspiracy with Gulley and Helen Louise Adkins which resulted in the transportation of heroin and oxycodone from Detroit, Michigan, to Huntington for distribution. Mattison also admitted to distributing heroin on behalf of Gulley during the conspiracy.
In August 2013, agents executed search warrants at multiple locations tied to Gulley and Mattison, recovering over 140 grams of heroin, 974 oxycodone tablets and $12,000 cash. Gulley previously pleaded guilty in connection with his involvement in the conspiracy and was sentenced in May 2014 to 63 months in federal prison.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers in communities across the Southern District.
Huntington Man Who Shot Six Gets 12 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man was sentenced today to 12 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of firearms and distributing heroin, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today. Antonio Smith, 32, will also serve three years’ supervised release after his prison term, under a sentence imposed by Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. Smith previously pleaded guilty to the two charges on March 31, 2014.
On September 24, 2013, Smith used two firearms to shoot six individuals in the Northcott neighborhood of Huntington. Smith had previously been convicted of two violent felonies and thus could not legally possess the firearms that he used in the shootings. Separately, Smith sold heroin in Huntington to a confidential informant who, unbeknownst to Smith, was cooperating with investigators. Smith was later arrested in New York and returned to West Virginia for prosecution.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Huntington Violent Crime/Drug Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Huntington Police Department. Special Assistant United States Attorney Sharon M. Frazier handled the prosecution.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiates, including heroin, in communities across the Southern District.
Huntington Man Who Shot Six Gets 12 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man was sentenced today to 12 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of firearms and distributing heroin, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today. Antonio Smith, 32, will also serve three years’ supervised release after his prison term, under a sentence imposed by Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. Smith previously pleaded guilty to the two charges on March 31, 2014.
On September 24, 2013, Smith used two firearms to shoot six individuals in the Northcott neighborhood of Huntington. Smith had previously been convicted of two violent felonies and thus could not legally possess the firearms that he used in the shootings. Separately, Smith sold heroin in Huntington to a confidential informant who, unbeknownst to Smith, was cooperating with investigators. Smith was later arrested in New York and returned to West Virginia for prosecution.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Huntington Violent Crime/Drug Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Huntington Police Department. Special Assistant United States Attorney Sharon M. Frazier handled the prosecution.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiates, including heroin, in communities across the Southern District.
Former Mingo Prosecuting Attorney Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Former Mingo County prosecuting attorney C. Michael Sparks was sentenced today to a year in federal prison, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced. The sentence comes after Sparks admitted his role in a scheme to coerce a Mingo County drug defendant, George White, into firing his defense counsel. According to Sparks, he and other Mingo officials, including former county commissioner David Baisden and former sheriff Eugene Crum, learned that White was prepared to testify that then-Sheriff Crum had been involved in criminal activity. In order to protect Crum from the impact of White’s allegations, including possible investigation, Baisden, Sparks, Crum, and former Mingo circuit judge Michael Thornsbury carried out a plan to pressure White into firing his defense attorney and replacing him with another attorney handpicked by the conspirators. After switching lawyers, White dropped his allegations against Crum and was sentenced to up to fifteen years in state prison.
The United States Constitution entitles criminal defendants to counsel of their choosing. By using their official authority to coerce White into firing his chosen lawyer and replacing him with the lawyer that they wanted, Sparks and the others involved violated that right. Using public authority to violate a person’s constitutional rights is a federal crime.
In the midst of the White scheme, federal investigators approached Sparks for information about wrongdoing by him and other Mingo officials. Sparks agreed to cooperate with authorities, becoming the first of a group of corrupt Mingo officeholders to assist federal agents. The information that Sparks provided laid the groundwork for a successful investigation of wrongdoing among those officials. To date, that investigation has led to federal prison terms for former Mingo County circuit judge Michael Thornsbury, former Mingo County commissioner David Baisden, and former Mingo County chief magistrate Dallas “Big Dal” Toler. In addition to their prison sentences, each of those officials has resigned his office as a result of the federal investigation, and Thornsbury and Sparks have lost their licenses to practice law.
Because of Sparks’ early and valuable participation in the investigation, Goodwin’s office sought a one-year prison sentence in Sparks’ case—significantly shorter than the sentences imposed on his fellow former officials.
“This sentence strikes an appropriate balance,” said U.S. Attorney Goodwin. “It punishes wrongdoing while encouraging officials involved in public corruption to come forward, admit what they’ve done, and help federal authorities. What Sparks did was indefensible, and he deserves prison time. But his early cooperation was vital to our investigation in Mingo County. This sentence underscores that telling the truth at the beginning of an investigation is always a wise decision.”
Today’s sentence was imposed by United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston, who last month sentenced Thornsbury to 50 months in prison for his role in the same scheme in which Sparks was involved and in March sentenced Toler to 27 months in prison for election fraud. In sentencing Sparks, Judge Johnston focused on the importance of Sparks’ early and truthful cooperation with federal officials.
In January, after pleading guilty in an extortion scheme, Baisden was sentenced to 20 months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
The investigation of corruption in Mingo County is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Virginia State Police. Counsel to the United States Attorney Steven R. Ruby and Assistant United States Attorney C. Haley Bunn are in charge of the prosecutions.
Former Mingo Prosecuting Attorney Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Former Mingo County prosecuting attorney C. Michael Sparks was sentenced today to a year in federal prison, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced. The sentence comes after Sparks admitted his role in a scheme to coerce a Mingo County drug defendant, George White, into firing his defense counsel. According to Sparks, he and other Mingo officials, including former county commissioner David Baisden and former sheriff Eugene Crum, learned that White was prepared to testify that then-Sheriff Crum had been involved in criminal activity. In order to protect Crum from the impact of White’s allegations, including possible investigation, Baisden, Sparks, Crum, and former Mingo circuit judge Michael Thornsbury carried out a plan to pressure White into firing his defense attorney and replacing him with another attorney handpicked by the conspirators. After switching lawyers, White dropped his allegations against Crum and was sentenced to up to fifteen years in state prison.
The United States Constitution entitles criminal defendants to counsel of their choosing. By using their official authority to coerce White into firing his chosen lawyer and replacing him with the lawyer that they wanted, Sparks and the others involved violated that right. Using public authority to violate a person’s constitutional rights is a federal crime.
In the midst of the White scheme, federal investigators approached Sparks for information about wrongdoing by him and other Mingo officials. Sparks agreed to cooperate with authorities, becoming the first of a group of corrupt Mingo officeholders to assist federal agents. The information that Sparks provided laid the groundwork for a successful investigation of wrongdoing among those officials. To date, that investigation has led to federal prison terms for former Mingo County circuit judge Michael Thornsbury, former Mingo County commissioner David Baisden, and former Mingo County chief magistrate Dallas “Big Dal” Toler. In addition to their prison sentences, each of those officials has resigned his office as a result of the federal investigation, and Thornsbury and Sparks have lost their licenses to practice law.
Because of Sparks’ early and valuable participation in the investigation, Goodwin’s office sought a one-year prison sentence in Sparks’ case—significantly shorter than the sentences imposed on his fellow former officials.
“This sentence strikes an appropriate balance,” said U.S. Attorney Goodwin. “It punishes wrongdoing while encouraging officials involved in public corruption to come forward, admit what they’ve done, and help federal authorities. What Sparks did was indefensible, and he deserves prison time. But his early cooperation was vital to our investigation in Mingo County. This sentence underscores that telling the truth at the beginning of an investigation is always a wise decision.”
Today’s sentence was imposed by United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston, who last month sentenced Thornsbury to 50 months in prison for his role in the same scheme in which Sparks was involved and in March sentenced Toler to 27 months in prison for election fraud. In sentencing Sparks, Judge Johnston focused on the importance of Sparks’ early and truthful cooperation with federal officials.
In January, after pleading guilty in an extortion scheme, Baisden was sentenced to 20 months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
The investigation of corruption in Mingo County is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Virginia State Police. Counsel to the United States Attorney Steven R. Ruby and Assistant United States Attorney C. Haley Bunn are in charge of the prosecutions.
Ceredo Woman Sentenced for Role in Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Ceredo woman was sentenced today to 18 months in federal prison for her role in a heroin distribution conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Helen Louise Adkins, 43, previously pleaded guilty in January 2014 to distribution of heroin before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers in Huntington.
On January 18, 2013, Adkins met with an undercover agent in the parking lot of a grocery store in Huntington and distributed approximately two grams of heroin. As part of her plea agreement, Adkins admitted her involvement in a conspiracy with Bobby Nelson Gulley and Alanna Lynn Mattison that resulted in the transportation of heroin and oxycodone from Detroit, Michigan, to Huntington for distribution. Between January and August 2013, Adkins rented an apartment located at 522 14th Street West, in Huntington, from which she permitted Gulley to conduct drug distributions. Adkins also made heroin distributions at Gulley’s direction.
In August 2013, agents executed search warrants at multiple locations tied to Gulley and Adkins, recovering over 140 grams of heroin, 974 oxycodone tablets and $12,000 in cash. Gulley previously pleaded guilty in connection with his involvement in the conspiracy and was sentenced in May 2014 to 63 months in federal prison.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers in communities across the Southern District.
Ceredo Woman Sentenced for Role in Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Ceredo woman was sentenced today to 18 months in federal prison for her role in a heroin distribution conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Helen Louise Adkins, 43, previously pleaded guilty in January 2014 to distribution of heroin before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers in Huntington.
On January 18, 2013, Adkins met with an undercover agent in the parking lot of a grocery store in Huntington and distributed approximately two grams of heroin. As part of her plea agreement, Adkins admitted her involvement in a conspiracy with Bobby Nelson Gulley and Alanna Lynn Mattison that resulted in the transportation of heroin and oxycodone from Detroit, Michigan, to Huntington for distribution. Between January and August 2013, Adkins rented an apartment located at 522 14th Street West, in Huntington, from which she permitted Gulley to conduct drug distributions. Adkins also made heroin distributions at Gulley’s direction.
In August 2013, agents executed search warrants at multiple locations tied to Gulley and Adkins, recovering over 140 grams of heroin, 974 oxycodone tablets and $12,000 in cash. Gulley previously pleaded guilty in connection with his involvement in the conspiracy and was sentenced in May 2014 to 63 months in federal prison.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers in communities across the Southern District.
Owner of Trucking Company Pleads Guilty to Federal Tax ChargesRead the Press Release
Charleston, W.Va. – The owner of a trucking company in southern West Virginia pleaded guilty today for failing to collect and pay federal employment taxes announced United States Attorney Booth Goodwin. Richard L. Bailey, Jr., of Fayetteville, West Virginia, pleaded guilty to two federal tax charges.
Bailey owned and operated Duster Trucking Company, LLC, a coal hauling business in the Fayetteville area. Bailey was required to deduct income taxes, social security taxes, and Medicare taxes from his employees’ wages, and to pay these taxes to the federal government. In 2009, Bailey failed to collect and pay employment taxes in the amount of $16,170.23. In 2010, Bailey again failed to collect and pay employment taxes of $9,155.99.
Bailey is scheduled for sentencing on October 1, 2014. For each offense, Bailey faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.
Two Area Men Plead Guilty to Federal Heroin ChargesRead the Press Release
Beckley, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that two area men pled guilty to drug charges in federal court in Beckley. Tommy Ray Prater II, 34, of Beaver, pled guilty to traveling in interstate commerce to facilitate unlawful activity. He admitted that on April 9 and 10, 2013, he and another person drove from Shady Spring, West Virginia to Camden, New Jersey, where they obtained heroin, and returned to Shady Spring where the heroin was sold. Prater admitted that he had made this same trip for heroin on other occasions. He faces a sentence of up to five years and a $250,000 fine. The case was investigated by the West Virginia State Police, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, and the FBI.
Christopher Miller, 32, of Alderson, pled guilty to distribution of heroin. Miller admitted that in August of 2013, he distributed two packets of heroin to a person cooperating with law enforcement authorities. The drug deal took place in the Alderson area. Miller faces a sentence of up to twenty years and a $1,000,000 fine. His case was investigated by the Greenbrier County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and is being prosecuted under the Greenbrier Heroin and Pill Initiative directed by the United States Attorney’s Office.
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 pills and heroin in communities across the Southern District.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger set sentencings in both cases for October 23, 2014.Chapmanville Man Sentenced for Illegal Distribution of Prescription PainkillersRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Chapmanville, West Virginia, man was sentenced to eight months’ home confinement and three years’ probation for distribution of oxymorphone, a powerful painkiller often sold under the brand name Opana, U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today. Carl Tomblin, 50, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of oxymorphone on March 25, 2014. Today’s sentence was imposed by United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
Tomblin sold oxymorphone to a confidential police informant on five separate occasions in December 2013 and January 2014. Tomblin also admitted that he purchased and distributed oxymorphone for approximately eight months prior to January 2014.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. 119 Task Force and the West Virginia State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn handled the prosecution.
The prosecution is part of an ongoing effort 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 pill and heroin in communities across the Southern District.
Fayette County Woman Pleads Guilty to Mail FraudRead the Press Release
Former Sheriff’s Department Employee Created False Records to Hide Theft
Charleston, W.Va. – A 44-year old Fayette County woman faces up to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty today to mail fraud, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced. Cheryl Gray of Hilltop, West Virginia, entered a guilty plea before United States District Court Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. in Charleston.
Gray is a former employee of the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department. While at the Sheriff’s Department, Gray was charged with collecting application fees for concealed weapon permits, recording fees paid, and transmitting a list to the West Virginia State Police of permits issued each month. For over six months, from October of 2012 through June of 2013, Gray kept cash payments for permits and failed to record the names of persons who paid cash on the State Police report. To disguise her theft, Gray created a false set of receipt books. The fraud resulted in losses to the State Police and Fayette County Sheriff’s Department of approximately $40,000.
Gray is scheduled to be sentenced on September 23, 2014 in Charleston.
The West Virginia State Police, Fayette County Sheriff’s Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Blaire L. Malkin is in charge of the prosecution.
Mercer County Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Bluefield, W.Va. – A 50-year old Mercer County man faces up to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty today to possession of child pornography, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced. Charles Edward Lawrence of Princeton, West Virginia, entered a guilty plea before Senior United States District Court Judge David A. Faber in Bluefield.
Following an undercover operation, law enforcement authorities executed a search warrant on Lawrence’s home on October 10, 2013. Authorities seized videos from the home that depicted prepubescent minors having sex or performing sexual acts. Lawrence maintained the child pornography on a USB flash drive. Lawrence is scheduled to be sentenced on October 27, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. in Bluefield.
The West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, the Southern Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution.
This case is being brought as part of U.S. Attorney Goodwin’s ongoing initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.
Federal Inmate Pleads Guilty to Possession of A WeaponRead the Press Release
Bluefield, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that Antonio Quintero, 36, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution at McDowell, pled guilty in federal court in Bluefield to possession of a weapon. On March 7, staff members at the prison were escorting Quintero when they saw him throw something into a trash can. When they searched the trash can, they recovered a homemade knife commonly referred to as a “shank.”
Quintero faces up to 33 months’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber has scheduled the sentencing for October 27, 2014.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons conducted the investigation, and the prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney John File.
Dunbar Man Pleads Guilty to Selling Heroin from His ApartmentRead the Press Release
Charleston, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that Donald Covington, 44, of Dunbar, West Virginia entered a guilty plea to distribution of heroin on Tuesday, June 17, 2014. On December 5, 2013, detectives with the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department STOP team used a confidential informant (“CI”) to buy heroin from Covington from his apartment at 405 11th Street in Dunbar. Covington also sold heroin to the CI from his apartment on December 3, 2013, and on December 12, 2013. Following the December 12, 2013 drug deal, police searched Covington’s apartment where they found three firearms, additional heroin, crack cocaine, and cocaine.
Covington faces up to 20 years imprisonment when he is sentenced by Judge Thomas J. Johnston on October 1, 2014.
The case was investigated by the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department STOP Team. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is in charge of the prosecution.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The United States Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal heroin and pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of prescription pills and heroin in communities across the Southern District.
Charleston Man Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Selling OxycodoneRead the Press Release
Charleston, W.Va. – Daniel B. Moore, age 60, of Charleston, West Virginia pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., to aiding and abetting the distribution of oxycodone. During the plea hearing, Moore admitted that on February 25, 2013, he assisted in the sale of 47 oxycodone pills, also called “roxycodone,” for $1,600 to a confidential informant working with the Metro Drug Unit. The drug deal took place at Moore’s home on Kirkwood Drive in Charleston. Following the drug deal, police searched Moore’s home where they retrieved the money that the confidential informant had used to buy the drugs. Police also found more oxycodone pills intended for distribution in the Charleston area. Moore faces up to 20 years imprisonment and a $1,000,000.00 fine when he is sentenced on September 15, 2014.
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.
Ohio Man Sentenced for Role in Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Charleston, W.Va. – Christopher Swann, 24, of Port William, Ohio, was sentenced today to six months’ imprisonment and six months’ home confinement for his involvement in a heroin conspiracy where he purchased heroin in Ohio for distribution in West Virginia. Swann pled guilty in March of 2014 and admitted that he made three trips to Ohio to purchase heroin for resale in West Virginia. Swann was sentenced by United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver who made it a specific requirement of Swann’s sentence that he work at least 40 hours per week after he completes his period of incarceration.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and opiates. The United States Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal heroin and pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District .
Former Mingo Judge Sentenced to 4+ Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Former Mingo County circuit judge Michael Thornsbury was sentenced today to four years and two months in federal prison, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced. The sentence comes after Thornsbury admitted his role in a conspiracy to coerce a local drug defendant, George White, into firing his defense counsel. According to Thornsbury, he and other Mingo officials, including former county commissioner David Baisden, former prosecuting attorney Michael Sparks, and former sheriff Eugene Crum, learned that White was prepared to testify that then-Sheriff Crum had illegally received prescription pain medication and obtained unlawful campaign contributions. In order to protect Crum from the impact of White’s allegations, including possible federal investigation, Thornsbury, Baisden, Sparks, Crum, and others conspired to pressure White into firing his defense attorney and replacing him with another attorney handpicked by the conspirators. After switching lawyers, White dropped his allegations against Crum and was sentenced to up to fifteen years in state prison.
"Mr. Thornsbury's conduct was shocking and appalling,” said U.S. Attorney Goodwin. “It was worthy of a stiff sentence. I’d like to see this whole episode be a call to action for all of us to make sure that this ‘Boss Hogg’ style of politics is a thing of the past—because it simply can’t be a part of our future."
In August 2013, a federal grand jury also charged Thornsbury with conspiring to frame the husband of a woman with whom he was in a romantic relationship. In imposing today’s sentence, United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston compared Thornsbury’s abuses of office to the actions of a Third World dictator.
With today’s sentence, Thornsbury becomes the third former Mingo official sent to federal prison in a wide-ranging federal corruption probe. He joins Baisden, sentenced in January to 20 months’ imprisonment, and former Mingo County chief magistrate Dallas Toler, sentenced in March to 27 months in prison. All three officials resigned their offices after being charged with federal crimes. Sparks, the fourth official charged in the investigation, has also resigned as a result of the charge against him and is scheduled to be sentenced July 7, 2014.
The investigation of corruption in Mingo County is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Virginia State Police. Counsel to the United States Attorney Steven R. Ruby and Assistant United States Attorney C. Haley Bunn are in charge of the prosecutions.
Click here to hear an audio clip from U.S. Attorney Goodwin.
Michigan Man Sentenced to Four Years in Federal Prison for Firearm ViolationRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that Thomas Glenn Speck, 37, of Fostoria, Michigan, was sentenced in federal court in Beckley to four years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Speck pleaded guilty in January 2014, admitting that on March 28, 2012, he possessed a 12-gauge shotgun at a residence where he was staying in Harper, Raleigh County, West Virginia. The firearm was found during an investigation of a confrontation between members of the Avengers Motorcycle Club and West Virginia State Troopers. Speck is prohibited from possessing firearms because he was convicted of the felony offenses of unarmed robbery and second degree home invasion in Michigan in 1999. He is currently serving a prison sentence of three to ten years in Michigan on a 2012 conviction of third degree fleeing and eluding a police officer. The federal sentence will be served after the Michigan sentence is complete.
Speck’s sentence was imposed by United States District Judge Irene C. Berger. The case was investigated by the West Virginia State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney John File.
Beckley Woman Pleads Guilty to Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that Teruko Miller, 29, of Stanaford, West Virginia, pleaded guilty in federal court in Beckley to distributing heroin. Miller admitted that on January 29, 2014, she sold heroin to a person who was cooperating with law enforcement authorities. The drug deal took place on Stanaford Road in Beckley, West Virginia.
Miller faces up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger has scheduled Miller’s sentencing hearing for September 18, 2014.
The Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit conducted the investigation.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and opiates. The United States 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.
Charleston Felon Sentenced to Prison for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W. Va. – Keary A. Drake, 45, of Charleston, was sentenced today to five months in prison followed by five months of home confinement for being a felon in illegal possession of firearms, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced. The firearms have been returned to their lawful owner.
Drake, along with Lucas Lynch, a co-conspirator, entered into a scheme to sell two firearms and split the proceeds of the sale. Drake is prohibited from possessing any guns due to a prior grand larceny felony conviction from April 2, 2002. On September 8, 2013, Drake and Lynch drove to a St. Albans home where they picked up two guns. While driving through St. Albans, St. Albans Patrolman Phillip Bass attempted to pull over Drake for a traffic infraction. Both guns (a Bushmaster .223 rifle and Ithaca shotgun) were in Drake’s car at the time. Drake did not immediately pull over. Lynch jumped from Drake’s car around Rock Lake, South Charleston. Drake continued to evade police until his car engine malfunctioned in South Charleston and he was forced to stop. Drake gave a statement to law enforcement admitting his participation in the scheme and that he knew he was not permitted to possess the firearms. Lynch, Drake’s co-conspirator, also pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 9, 2014. Lynch faces up to 10 years’ incarceration and a $250,000 dollar fine.
The St. Albans Police Department conducted the investigation, assisted by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms and Tobacco Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorneys Erik S. Goes and Jennifer Rada prosecuted the matter on behalf of the United States. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed today’s sentence.
Summersville Couple Who Robbed Gun Dealer Enter Federal Guilty PleasRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Nicholas County couple who broke into Johnson’s Sporting Goods in Summersville and stole firearms pleaded guilty to federal firearms charges, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Matthew England, 28 and Lyndsey England, 26, pleaded guilty to possession of stolen firearms before the United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. in Charleston.
On September 26, 2011, officers from the Summersville Police Department responded to an alarm at Johnson’s Sporting Goods on Webster Road. Upon arrival they saw signs of forced entry into the business. The owner reported that 14 firearms had been stolen. Several of the firearms were recovered during investigations of other crimes, and in 2013, police traced the stolen firearms to the Englands. Both Matthew and Lyndsey England admitted stealing the firearms when questioned by authorities.
Each defendant faces up to 10 years in federal prison when sentenced. Matthew England entered his guilty plea on May 8, 2014 and is scheduled to be sentenced on August 27, 2014. Lyndsey England entered her plea today and is scheduled to be sentenced on August 27, 2014.
The Summersville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney, Joshua Hanks is in charge of the prosecution.
Parkersburg Felon Sentenced to Maximum Term for Unlawful Fierarms PossessionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man, previously convicted of manufacturing a controlled substance, was sentenced today to the maximum statutory term of 10 years in federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Alan Keith Philpott, 46, pleaded guilty in February of 2014 to possessing 26 firearms in spite of his status as a convicted felon.
On November 1, 2012 and March 21, 2013 police executed search warrants at Philpott’s residence on Elm Tree Drive near Parkersburg. During the first search, police seized 22 firearms – including two stolen firearms, oxycodone, hydrocodone, diazepam, alprazolam, approximately three pounds of marijuana, “bath salts,” and U.S. currency. During the second search warrant, police seized an additional four firearms, hydrocodone, marijuana, and “bath salts.” Philpott had been previously convicted in December of 2006 in the Circuit Court of Wood County of the felony offense of manufacturing a controlled substance.
The West Virginia State Police, Parkersburg Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks is in charge of the prosecution.
U.S. Attorney Files Charges in Multi-million Dollar Kickback Scheme Orchestrated at Logan County MineRead the Press Release
Charges Cover Widespread Multi-Million Dollar Fraud Uncovered In “Pay-to-Play” Kickback Scheme At Arch Coal’s Mountain Laurel Mining Complex In Logan County
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin today filed a variety of charges in United States District Court in Charleston arising out of a joint federal and state criminal investigation into cash kickbacks paid to Arch Coal, Inc. (“Arch”) employees working at the Mountain Laurel Mining Complex (“Mountain Laurel”) near Sharples, Logan County, West Virginia. The charges lay out a far reaching scheme orchestrated by Arch employees, including the former Mountain Laurel General Manager David E. Runyon, 45, of Delbarton, Mingo County, to receive cash kickbacks from certain vendors in exchange for receiving work. According to the charges, vendors were required to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars over several years to ensure that vendors received and continued to receive work at Mountain Laurel.
“This kind of pay-to-play scheme hurts honest coal-industry vendors who refuse to pay bribes as a way to get customers,” commented U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. “The corrupt way that these defendants did business should be a thing of the past. It’s bad for the economy and, ultimately, bad for consumers.”
According to the charges:
David E. Runyon, 45, of Delbarton, Mingo County, is charged with extorting certain vendors for cash kickbacks in exchange for ensuring that those complicit vendors continued to receive work from Mountain Laurel. As outlined below, Runyon and other Arch employees are charged with receiving kickbacks approaching $2 million over a five-year span from sometime in 2007 through sometime in 2012. Runyon faces up to 25 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $500,000 if convicted.
Gary K. Griffith, 62, of Oceana, Wyoming County, was charged with making a materially false statement to federal and state law enforcement when interviewed in the Mountain Laurel kickback scheme investigation. According to the charge, he was the maintenance manager at Mountain Laurel, and received cash kickbacks in the amount of at least $250,000 on behalf of him and mine general manager David E. Runyon from a vendor who refurbished shuttle cars. When he was asked by federal agents about receiving kickbacks either personally or on behalf of Runyon, he denied it. Griffith faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 if convicted.
Stephen B. Herndon, 37, of Holden, Logan County, the former Mountain Laurel warehouse manager and now owner of Tri-State Mine Service, Inc., is charged with “structuring” a cash withdrawal from a local bank. The term “structuring” is used to describe criminal conduct when an individual engages in cash transactions with a financial institution in increments of $10,000 or less for the purpose of avoiding the financial institution’s currency transaction report (“CTR”) filing requirement with the Department of Treasury. Herndon faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 if convicted.
Scott E. Ellis, 44, of Holden, Logan County, Stephen B. Herndon’s business partner in Tri-State, is also charged with structuring a cash withdrawal from a local bank account. According to the Information filed in Runyon’s case, Tri-State, through Ellis and Herndon, paid nearly $425,000 over a five-year period to receive rebuild work from Mountain Laurel. Ellis faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 if convicted.
Alvis R. Porter, 61, of Holden, Logan County, owner and operator of Quality Oil, Inc., which was doing business as Southern Construction of Logan, provided construction services at the Mountain Laurel Mining Complex. Porter was charged with failing to collect, account for, and pay over trust fund taxes of an employee. As part of Runyon’s charge, Porter paid approximately $400,000 in kickbacks directly to Runyon. Porter faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 if convicted.
David N. Herndon, 63, of Chauncey, Logan County, was charged with engaging in an unlawful monetary transaction of criminally derived property of a value greater than $10,000. According to the charge, David Herndon owned MAC Mine Service, Inc., which provided contract labor to the Mountain Laurel Mining Complex. D. Herndon participated in a contract labor kickback scheme where in exchange for Runyon not seeking to terminate the contract, and instead extending the contract each year, David Herndon paid illegal cash kickbacks of approximately $340,000 for more than three years. D. Herndon faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 if convicted.
Ronald Barnette, 53, of Holden, Logan County, was charged with making a materially false statement to federal and state law enforcement investigating the Mountain Laurel kickback scheme. According to the charge, Barnette’s false statement pertained to paying kickbacks at Mountain Laurel for work that Barnette’s company received in rebuild miners and bolters at Mountain Laurel. Barnette ultimately admitted to making approximately $300,000 in cash kickbacks to Runyon over the course of the scheme. Barnette faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 if convicted.
Gary L. Roeher, 52, of Holden, Logan County, was charged with filing a false tax return. According to the charge, Roeher deducted approximately $43,000 as a business expense for his company, CM Supply, when Roeher actually used the funds to install an in-ground swimming pool at his residence. Roeher faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 if convicted.
Chadwick J. Lusk, 32, of Davin, Logan County, was charged with honest services mail fraud. According to the charge, Lusk, while the purchasing agent at Mountain Laurel, defrauded Arch Coal of its right to honest services by receiving illegal cash kickbacks in a crib block kickback scheme. Gary L. Roeher, who owned CM Supply, Co., paid Lusk a portion of the profits for the crib blocks that Arch Coal purchased from CM Supply, Co. to use at Mountain Laurel to provide roof support in the underground mine portion of Mountain Laurel. Lusk faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 if convicted.
James H. Evans II, 39, of Verdunville, Logan County, owned and operated Baisden Recyling, which had a contract with Arch Coal to recycle scrap metal at the Mountain Laurel Complex. Evans was charged with conspiracy to commit honest services fraud, as he recycled scrap cable at Mountain Laurel. Evans paid Arch’s $30,000 commission on the scrap cable to Runyon through another Arch employee, Stephen B. Herndon, rather than to Arch. Evans faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 if convicted.
The charging documents, referred to as “informations,” are attached.
Today’s charge stems from an investigation being conducted by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the West Virginia State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas C. Ryan and Meredith George Thomas are handling the prosecution.
NOTE: An information is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Click here to see a copy of the information documents.
Three More Defendants Sentenced in Logan Arson RingRead the Press Release
Joint Federal and State Investigation Results in 25 Years Of Prison Time For Million-Dollar Insurance Scam
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Three more participants in a Logan County arson scheme were sentenced to prison, United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today. On Wednesday, Guy R. Miller, Jr., 40, of Logan, was sentenced to six years and three months in prison for his role in facilitating the February 1, 2012 burning of a former law office building located at 111 Stratton Street in downtown Logan. Miller recruited Michael D. Williams, 44, of Logan to spread approximately fifteen gallons of gasoline throughout the first floor of the building and ignite the fire. Williams spread so much gasoline that the fumes accumulated in the ceiling causing a dangerous explosion. The explosion was caught on the Logan County Courthouse video security system. Williams received a reduced sentence of 32 months in prison on Thursday as a result of his cooperation. Shawn C. Simon, 41, of Charleston, drove the getaway car for Miller and Williams and was sentenced Thursday to a term of 22 months in prison for destroying the digital video recorder from the neighboring restaurant, the 317 Steakhouse, operated by co-conspirator James Gregory Glick, 44, of Logan. The Main Street side security cameras for the restaurant captured Miller, Simon and Williams fleeing the scene after passing through a law office with doors that opened onto Main Street and Stratton Street. Simon admitted that he destroyed the video recorder shortly after the fire and threw it into the Kanawha River to conceal the evidence.
The scheme was initially hatched by Glick and another co-conspirator to collect insurance proceeds. In January of 2012, Glick bought the commercial building for $50,000. He then worked with an insurance agent and co-conspirator, William Jamey Thompson, 45, of Chapmanville, to obtain an inflated insurance policy from General Star Indemnity Company (“General Star”) providing $1 million in coverage. Thompson received $50,000 for his part in fraudulently obtaining insurance coverage.
While Glick was out of town during the early morning hours of February 1, 2012, Miller orchestrated the burning of the structure with Williams and Simon.
Without sufficient evidence of the arson, General Star paid Glick the $1,010,000 insurance policy proceeds in May of 2012, and Glick began sharing the money with his co-conspirators. In June of 2013, criminal investigators from the Internal Revenue Service, working with the West Virginia State Police, seized the remaining $450,000 in fraud proceeds from accounts controlled by Glick. Over the course of the next six weeks, the agents developed cooperating witnesses, who obtained audio and video recordings of efforts by Glick to obstruct the federal grand jury investigation by paying Miller $8,000 to provide false testimony if he was called as a witness.
Last week Glick received a sentence of more than 7 years for his role in the conspiracy and Thompson received a term of imprisonment of five years.
In addition to the $1,010,000 restitution order to repay General Star, the Court also ordered all defendants to reimburse the City of Logan $3,900 for emergency personnel response costs.
In March, Philip Wayne Workman, 36, of Logan was sentenced to prison for 27 months for his efforts to obstruct the arson investigation by conducting staged consensual recordings in an effort to frame innocent individuals.
The West Virginia State Police, West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Thomas Ryan is in charge of the prosecutionGoodwin to Make Announcement in Major Investigation of Illegal Kickbacks at Logan County Mining OperationRead the Press Release
***MEDIA ADVISORY***
Media Advisory: TODAY - Goodwin to Make Announcement in Major Investigation of Illegal Kickbacks at Logan County Mining OperationCHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin, along with officials from the FBI, IRS, Postal Inspection Service, and West Virginia State Police, will announce developments in a major investigation of illegal kickbacks at a Logan County mining operation, TODAY, Friday, May 30, 2014, at 2:00 p.m., at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Robert C. Byrd United States Courthouse, Fourth Floor, in Charleston. *** TV: Please arrive at courthouse by 1:30 p.m. to clear security and set up cameras. ***
WHO:
United States Attorney Booth Goodwin
Federal and state law enforcement officialsWHAT:
Announcement of developments in a major mining kickback investigation in Logan County.
WHERE:
U.S. Attorney’s Office
Robert C. Byrd United States Courthouse
Fourth Floor
300 Virginia St., E.
Charleston, WV
WHEN: Friday, May 30, 2014 at 2:00 p.m.Coal City Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that Harry D. Rhodes, Jr., 49, of Coal City, West Virginia, plead guilty in federal court in Beckley to distributing oxycodone, a powerful and addictive prescription pain medication. Rhodes admitted that in December of 2013, he sold oxycodone pills to a person who was cooperating with law enforcement authorities. The drug deal took place in Coal City, near Beckley, West Virginia.
Rhodes faces up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger scheduled the sentencing for September 10, 2014.
The Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit conducted the investigation.This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The United States 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.
Beckley Man Pleads Guilty to Selling HeroinRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that Timothy Peck, 41, of Beckley, West Virginia, plead guilty in federal court in Beckley to distributing heroin. Peck admitted that in January of 2014, he sold heroin to a person who was cooperating with law enforcement authorities. The drug deal took place on Pardee Lane in Stanaford, West Virginia.
Peck faces up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger scheduled the sentencing for September 10l 2014.
The Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit conducted the investigation.This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The United States 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.
Wood County Man Sentenced to More Than Eight Years in Child Pornography CaseRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced that Jon Seth Davisson, a 22-year-old Wood County man convicted of receipt of child pornography, was sentenced today to 98 months in federal prison followed by 15 years of supervised release. In August of 2013, Davisson exchanged text messages with a 13-year-old Cabell County minor and persuaded the minor to take and send sexually explicit photographs to Davisson. At the time he received these images, Davisson was serving in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington. Davisson had been acquainted with the minor for several years and was aware of the age of the minor at the time he requested that she take and send the photos. At the sentencing, it was also alleged that Davisson had engaged in sexually explicit text and Facebook conversations with several other Wood County minors during which sexually explicit images were exchanged. At the times of those alleged conversations, the minors were between the ages of 12 and 16. In imposing the sentence, Chief Judge Robert C. Chambers noted Davisson’s “significant level of perversion.”
United States Attorney Booth Goodwin said, “Individuals like Mr. Davisson who entice minors to produce sexually explicit images contribute to the serious problem of child exploitation. I will continue to protect the children of West Virginia by bringing those who harm and exploit children to justice.”
The Cabell County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada is in charge of the prosecution.
This case is being brought as part of U.S. Attorney Goodwin’s ongoing initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.
Princeton Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distributing Hydromorphone PillsRead the Press Release
BLUEFIED, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced that Kristi Ball, 39, of Princeton, West Virginia was sentenced in federal court in Bluefield today to 13 months in prison for distributing hydromorphone, an addictive prescription medicine. Ball previously pled guilty in February of 2014, admitting that on January 16, 2013, she sold hydromorphone pills in Princeton to an informant working with law enforcement. The judge also took into consideration Ball’s admission that over a period of time she distributed 170 hydromorphone pills.
The case was investigated by the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, and the prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney John File. This case was prosecuted under the Bluefield Pill Initiative, and was part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of 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.
Princeton Man Sentenced for Marijuana CrimeRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Alphonso Washington, age 31 of Princeton, West Virginia was sentenced today in federal court in Bluefield to three years and ten months imprisonment announced United States Attorney Booth Goodwin. Washington previously pled guilty in January of 2014, to possession with intent to distribute marijuana. A routine parole inspection led to the arrest and prosecution. In August of 2013, officers with the West Virginia Department of Correction’s Parole Services arrived unannounced at Washington’s Princeton home. Washington, who at that time was serving a term of parole for a state drug felony, was in possession of marijuana, baggies, digital scales, a handgun, and over $18,000 in cash. Washington admitted that the seized cash was drug proceeds and it was forfeited as part of his plea agreement. The West Virginia Department of Correction’s Parole Services was assisted by the Princeton Police Department and the United States Marshal Service during the pendency of this case.
Ohio Heroin Dealer Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – An Ohio man who distributed heroin in Parkersburg in 2013 pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin. Marion Alonvo Felder, 30, of Upper Sandusky, Ohio, pleaded guilty to distribution of heroin before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. in Charleston.
On three occasions between September and October of 2013 Felder sold heroin to a confidential informant working with police in Parkersburg. Felder admitted coming to Parkersburg from Marion, Ohio in early 2013 to distribute heroin in the area. Felder faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 8, 2014.
The Parkersburg Police Department and the Washington County, Ohio Major Crimes Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks is in charge of the prosecution.
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.
Lincoln County Grandfather and Grandson Plead Guilty to Oxycodone ChargesRead the Press Release
Charleston, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced that Wallace Lee Adkins, 81, and Timothy J. Harvey, 30, both of West Hamlin, West Virginia, entered guilty pleas today to aiding and abetting the distribution of oxycodone. Adkins and Harvey admitted that on March 26, 2013, they sold oxycodone to an individual inside Adkins’ West Hamlin home. Unbeknownst to Adkins and Harvey, the individual was a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The confidential informant went to Adkins’ residence that day and asked Adkins for 5 oxycodone 30 mg pills. Adkins told Harvey to take care of the order. Harvey took a pill bottle from Adkins’ shirt, removed five oxycodone pills and sold them to the confidential informant for $200.00.
Adkins and Harvey face up to 20 years’ imprisonment when they are sentenced on September 9, 2014 by United States District Court Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
The case was investigated by the Huntington Drug Task Force and the West Virginia State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is handling the prosecution.
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.
Heroin Addict Pleads Guilty to Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
Huntington, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced that John Clark Schlotter, 30, originally from Weirton, West Virginia, pleaded guilty today in federal court in Huntington to unlawful possession of a firearm by a drug addict.
In January of 2014, Schlotter was in possession of two stolen guns at his home on First Avenue Rear in Huntington. Schlotter was holding the guns for a known heroin dealer who had received them in payment of a heroin debt. Schlotter was holding the guns for the heroin dealer in exchange for heroin for his personal use.Chief Judge Robert C. Chambers set the sentencing for September 2, 2014.
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.
Head of Newman Drug Ring Pleads Guilty in HuntingtonRead the Press Release
Huntington, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced that Kenneth Dewitt Newman, also known as “K-Kutta,” 32, of Huntington pleaded guilty today in federal court in Huntington to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, oxycodone, heroin, MDMA (commonly known as Ecstasy) and marijuana. Newman, his brother, George Antonio Newman, their mother, Darlene Newman, and 12 others were indicted for their various roles in the drug distribution conspiracy. Newman and the others sold various types of controlled substances from his home at 1814 Artisan Avenue in Huntington and in the surrounding area from at least 2010 through January of 2014. In January of 2014, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted a search of Newman’s home and seized cocaine, oxycodone, heroin, MDMA and marijuana.
The charges against Newman and his associates arose out of a long term investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and the Huntington Police Department. George Newman, Ariell Varney, William Isiah Petties, Kamel Burris, and Brandon Appleton have all pleaded guilty to various charges arising from the Newman investigation. Other defendants are awaiting trial currently set for the end of July. Newman faces up to 20 years imprisonment and a $1 million fine when he is sentenced on August 25, 2014.
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.
Detroit Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Distribution in HuntingtonRead the Press Release
Huntington, W.Va. – Emanuel Louis Harris, also known as “Forty,” age 44, of Detroit, Michigan, plead guilty in federal court in Huntington to possession with intent to distribute cocaine announced United States Attorney Booth Goodwin. In January of 2014, police found Harris at a residence on Division Street in Huntington with approximately 17.3 grams of cocaine powder. Harris was attempting to flush about an ounce of heroin down the toilet when police entered the house. Police also used a confidential informant to buy prescription pills from Harris on three separate occasions in 2012. Harris faces up to 20 years imprisonment and a $1 million fine when he is sentenced on September 2, 2014. United States District Court Chief Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing.
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.