Northern District of West Virginia

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas Moore, of Hagerstown, Maryland, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Moore, 39, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine Base, and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Moore admitted to working with others to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine hydrochloride from August 2020 to June 2021 in Berkeley County and elsewhere.

Moore faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ian Webster Taylor, of Charles Town, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Taylor, also known as “Beans” or “Beanz,” 31, pleaded guilty today to today on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine, Heroin, and Fentanyl.” Taylor admitted to working with others to sell cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl from August 2020 to September 2021 in Jefferson and Berkeley Counties and elsewhere.

Taylor faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

 

Pictured from L-R: Matt Harvey, Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney; Adam Ward, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, Northern District of West Virginia, and Jefferson County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney; United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld, Northern District of West Virginia

CHARLES TOWN, WEST VIRGINIA — A new partnership between state and federal prosecutors has been formed to enhance public safety in the Eastern Panhandle.

United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld and Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney Matt Harvey announced today that an assistant state prosecutor will be cross-designated and authorized to handle cases in federal court.

Adam Ward, one of the most experienced lawyers on Harvey’s staff, has been selected for the position of Special Assistant United States Attorney and will begin his new role this week.

“We are excited to have Adam Ward on our team,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “He will handle a variety of drug and violent crime cases, with a priority being placed on fentanyl trafficking and firearms offenses.”

According to Ihlenfeld, Ward is the first of several new prosecutors that will be added to his Martinsburg office over the next few months.

“The continued growth of the Eastern Panhandle plus our proximity to the D.C. metro area makes its necessary for federal resources to be added in order to more effectively combat crime,” said Ihlenfeld.

“I am pleased to see Adam receive this designation,” said Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney Harvey. “He will continue to work on my staff in addition to handling federal offenses. Adam is a skilled prosecutor, and his new role will help to enhance the coordination between my office and that of the U.S. Attorney.”

Ward has been a prosecutor for a decade and presently handles a busy felony docket that includes cases of homicide, sexual assault, and arson. He previously worked for the Louisa County (VA) Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and is an honors graduate of the University of Richmond School of Law.

 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Philadelphia man was charged today with having a large amount of methamphetamine near Wheeling University, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

James R. Stewart, 36, was indicted today on one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams of More of Methamphetamine within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” It is alleged that Stewart had more than 50 grams of methamphetamine near the university in November 2022 in Ohio County.

Stewart faces at least five years and up to 80 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $10 million. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

MARTINSBURG WEST VIRGINIA – A Maryland man and a West Virginia woman are charged with working together to sell fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine for nearly two years in the Eastern Panhandle, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Glenn Caj’mere Civo Watlington, of Parkville, Maryland, was indicted today on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine, Cocaine Base, Heroin, and Fentanyl,” two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl Mixture,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl and Heroin Mixture,”  three counts of “Distribution of Fentanyl,” one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Watlington, also known as “Chris,” 28, is accused of selling fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base from August 2020 to July 2022 in Jefferson and Berkeley Counties and elsewhere. Watlington, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, is also accused of having a 9mm pistol in August 2021.

Stephanie Ann Hall, of Oak Hill, West Virginia, was indicted today on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine, Cocaine Base, Heroin, and Fentanyl” and one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl.” Hall, 43, is accused of working with Watlington to sell fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base.

Watlington and Hall each face up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1 million for the conspiracy charge. Hall also faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1 million for the distribution charge. Watlington also faces at least five years and up to 40 years in prison for the 40 grams or more of fentanyl charge, and up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1 million for each of the remaining drug charges. He faces up to 10 years in prison and fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms charge, Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Woody, of Morgantown, West Virginia, weas sentenced today to 136 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Woody, 43, pleaded guilty in March 2022 to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Woody admitted to distributing methamphetamine in April 2020 in Monongalia County.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI's Northern West Virginia Drug Task Force in partnership with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.  The Task Forces have members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Monongalia County Sheriff's Office; and, the Morgantown, WVU, Granville and Star City Police Departments.  The investigation was also assisted by the following law enforcement partners:  the Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI in Houston, Texas; the Houston Police Department's Multi Agency Gang Initiative; the United States Postal Inspection Service in Houston; and, the FBI and DEA in Los Angeles, California.

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

Chief U.S. District Court Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Randall Richard Stebbins, of Monongah, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Stebbins, 36, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Stebbins admitted to having methamphetamine in April 2021 in Marion County.

Stebbins faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Blaine Walsh, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Walsh, 51, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, aka “Ice”.” Walsh admitted to having methamphetamine hydrochloride, also known as “ice,” in August 2021 in Berkeley County.

Walsh faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor F. Hurney is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

WASHINGTON – A Maryland man and his wife were sentenced today for conspiracy to communicate Restricted Data related to the design of nuclear-powered warships.

Jonathan Toebbe, 44, of Annapolis, was sentenced today to 19 years and 4 months of incarceration and fined $45,700. His wife, Diana Toebbe, 46, was sentenced to 21 years and 10 months of incarceration and fined $50,000. The Toebbes pleaded guilty to the conspiracy in August 2022.

“If not for the remarkable efforts of FBI agents, the sensitive data stolen by Mr. Toebbe could have ended up in the hands of an adversary of the United States and put the safety of our military and our nation at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “The FBI keeps American citizens safe from enemies both foreign and domestic and this case is an excellent reminder of their important work.”

“The Toebbes were willing to compromise the security of the nation by selling information related to naval nuclear propulsion systems. They are now being held accountable for their actions,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “The FBI and our federal partners have an unwavering commitment to protect U.S. secrets and will continue to aggressively investigate and expose espionage activities conducted on U.S. soil.”

According to court documents, at the time of his arrest, Jonathan Toebbe was an employee of the Department of the Navy who served as a nuclear engineer and was assigned to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, also known as Naval Reactors. He held an active national security clearance through the Department of Defense, giving him access to “Restricted Data” within the meaning of the Atomic Energy Act. Restricted Data concerns design, manufacture or utilization of atomic weapons, or production of Special Nuclear Material (SNM), or use of SNM in the production of energy – such as naval reactors. Jonathan Toebbe worked with and had access to information concerning naval nuclear propulsion including information related to military sensitive design elements, operating parameters and performance characteristics of the reactors for nuclear powered warships.

According to court documents, Jonathan Toebbe sent a package to a foreign government, listing a return address in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, containing a sample of Restricted Data and instructions for establishing a covert relationship to purchase additional Restricted Data. Jonathan Toebbe began corresponding via encrypted email with an individual whom he believed to be a representative of the foreign government. The individual was really an undercover FBI agent. Jonathan Toebbe continued this correspondence for several months, which led to an agreement to sell Restricted Data in exchange for thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency.

On June 8, 2021, the undercover agent sent $10,000 in cryptocurrency to Jonathan Toebbe as “good faith” payment. Shortly afterwards, on June 26, Jonathan Toebbe serviced a dead drop by placing an SD card, which was concealed within half a peanut butter sandwich and contained military sensitive design elements relating to submarine nuclear reactors, at a pre-arranged location. After retrieving the SD card, the undercover agent sent Jonathan Toebbe a $20,000 cryptocurrency payment. In return, Jonathan Toebbe emailed the undercover agent a decryption key for the SD Card. A review of the SD card revealed that it contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. On Aug. 28, Jonathan Toebbe made another “dead drop” of an SD card in eastern Virginia, this time concealing the card in a chewing gum package. After making a payment to Jonathan Toebbe of $70,000 in cryptocurrency, the FBI received a decryption key for the card. It, too, contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. The FBI arrested Jonathan Toebbe and his wife on Oct. 9, after he placed yet another SD card at a pre-arranged “dead drop” at a second location in West Virginia.

The FBI and NCIS are investigating the case.

Trial Attorneys Matthew J. McKenzie and S. Derek Shugert of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Lara Omps-Botteicher of the Northern District of West Virginia, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar for the Western District of Pennsylvania prosecuted the case.

A Maryland man and his wife were sentenced today for conspiracy to communicate Restricted Data related to the design of nuclear-powered warships.

Jonathan Toebbe, 44, of Annapolis, was sentenced today to 232 months, over 19 years, of incarceration. His wife, Diana Toebbe, 46, was sentenced to 262 months, more than 21 years, of incarceration. The Toebbes pleaded guilty to the conspiracy in August 2022.

“The Toebbes conspired to sell restricted defense information that would place the lives of our men and women in uniform and the security of the United States at risk,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The Department of Justice remains committed to protecting U.S. defense technology.”

“If not for the remarkable efforts of FBI agents, the sensitive data stolen by Mr. Toebbe could have ended up in the hands of an adversary of the United States and put the safety of our military and our nation at risk,” said U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld II for the Northern District of West Virginia. “The FBI keeps American citizens safe from enemies both foreign and domestic and this case is an excellent reminder of their important work.”

“These actions are a betrayal of trust, not only to the U.S. Government, but also to the American people,” said Assistant Director Alan E. Kohler Jr. of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “All U.S. Government employees swear to support and defend the Constitution of the United States, and with that oath comes the obligation to protect sensitive information. Those entrusted with such grave responsibility must be held accountable if they violate their oath and betray their country. The investigation which led to today’s sentencing is a reminder that the FBI and our partners will continue to doggedly pursue those who betray their sworn oath and those who aid them.”

“The Toebbes were willing to compromise the security of the nation by selling information related to naval nuclear propulsion systems, they are now being held accountable for their actions,” said Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office. “The FBI and our federal partners have an unwavering commitment to protect U.S. secrets and will continue to aggressively investigate and expose espionage activities conducted on U.S. soil.”

“Naval nuclear engineer Jonathan Toebbe was entrusted with our nation’s critical secrets and, along with his wife Diana Toebbe, put the security of our country at risk for financial gain,” said U.S. Attorney Cindy Chung for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “Their serious criminal conduct betrayed and endangered the Department of the Navy’s loyal and selfless service members. The seriousness of the offense in this case cannot be overstated.”

“The Toebbes betrayed the American people and put our national security at significant risk when they selfishly attempted to sell highly sensitive information related to nuclear-powered warships for their own financial benefit,” said Special Agent in Charge Brice Miller of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Office of Special Projects. “As the law enforcement arm of the Department of the Navy responsible for preventing terrorism, reducing crime, and protecting secrets, NCIS remains committed to protecting vital information and technology that ensures the superiority of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.”

According to court documents, at the time of his arrest, Jonathan Toebbe was an employee of the Department of the Navy who served as a nuclear engineer and was assigned to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, also known as Naval Reactors. He held an active national security clearance through the Department of Defense, giving him access to “Restricted Data” within the meaning of the Atomic Energy Act. Restricted Data concerns design, manufacture or utilization of atomic weapons, or production of Special Nuclear Material (SNM), or use of SNM in the production of energy – such as naval reactors. Jonathan Toebbe worked with and had access to information concerning naval nuclear propulsion including information related to military sensitive design elements, operating parameters and performance characteristics of the reactors for nuclear powered warships.

According to court documents, Jonathan Toebbe sent a package to a foreign government, listing a return address in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, containing a sample of Restricted Data and instructions for establishing a covert relationship to purchase additional Restricted Data. Jonathan Toebbe began corresponding via encrypted email with an individual whom he believed to be a representative of the foreign government. The individual was really an undercover FBI agent. Jonathan Toebbe continued this correspondence for several months, which led to an agreement to sell Restricted Data in exchange for thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency.

On June 8, 2021, the undercover agent sent $10,000 in cryptocurrency to Jonathan Toebbe as “good faith” payment. Shortly afterwards, on June 26, Jonathan Toebbe serviced a dead drop by placing an SD card, which was concealed within half a peanut butter sandwich and contained military sensitive design elements relating to submarine nuclear reactors, at a pre-arranged location. After retrieving the SD card, the undercover agent sent Jonathan Toebbe a $20,000 cryptocurrency payment. In return, Jonathan Toebbe emailed the undercover agent a decryption key for the SD Card. A review of the SD card revealed that it contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. On Aug. 28, 2021, Jonathan Toebbe made another “dead drop” of an SD card in eastern Virginia, this time concealing the card in a chewing gum package. After making a payment to Jonathan Toebbe of $70,000 in cryptocurrency, the FBI received a decryption key for the card. It, too, contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. The FBI arrested Jonathan Toebbe and his wife on Oct. 9, 2021 after he placed yet another SD card at a pre-arranged “dead drop” at a second location in West Virginia.

The FBI and NCIS are investigating the case.

Trial Attorneys Matthew J. McKenzie and S. Derek Shugert of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Lara Omps-Botteicher for the Northern District of West Virginia and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar for the Western District of Pennsylvania prosecuted the case.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Christian Adam Fisher, of Petersburg, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing a large amount of methamphetamineand having a firearm during the crime, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Fisher, 43, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of "Possession of a Firearm in Futherance of a Drug Crime." Fisher admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and having a 9mm pistol during the crime in February 2022 in Grant County.

Fisher faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $10 million for the drug charge and faces at least five years and up to life incarceration for the firearms charge . Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The task force consists of the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, Mineral County Sheriff’s Office, Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, Grant County Sheriff’s Office, the Hardy County Sherifff's Office, and the Keyser Police Department.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brian Jones, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has admitted to his role in a drug distribution enterprise, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Jones, also known as “B,” 63, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine Base, and Cocaine Hydrochloride.”  Jones admitted to working with others in a drug distribution operation in Berkeley County and elsewhere from June 2019 to October 2020.

Jones faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; the Department of Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Marshals Service; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the West Virginia Air National Guard investigated. The Eastern District of Pennsylvania U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Kent County Sheriff’s Office assisted.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/22-people-indicted-drug-trafficking-enterprise-spanned-several-states

 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kristin Leanne Price, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 87 months of incarceration for her role in a firearms trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Price, 28, pleaded guilty in April 2022 to one count of “False Statements During Purchase of Firearm.” Price admitted to falsifying forms to purchase a 9mm pistol from a licensed dealer in Berkeley County in June 2020.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – The former manager of a Morgantown construction company admitted to stealing millions of dollars from the business, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Michael D. Allen, 60, of Irwin, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty today in federal court to wire fraud and money laundering. Allen was formerly the manager of ABB Construction, LLC, which did business as Accelerated Construction Services. Allen used his position to unlawfully divert $3.5 million in company funds for his own personal benefit.

“When someone abuses a position of trust for personal financial gain, it can be crippling to individuals and to businesses,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “Because of this, we will continue to be aggressive in our pursuit of white-collar criminals like Mr. Allen.”

One of the items that Allen purchased with the stolen money was a 5.19 carat diamond ring for $113,250.

Allen faces up to 30 years in prison in addition to being required to pay back the money that he stole. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated. The FBI assisted in the investigation.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Paul Ritter, a former bank teller at Summit Community Bank in Salem, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months in prison for taking nearly $100,000 from customer accounts, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Ritter, 31, of Salem, was employed as a bank teller at Summit Community Bank. From July 2020 until February 2021, Ritter embezzled more than $97,000 from five bank accounts. He then failed to report the extra income in his tax return to the IRS for 2020.

Ritter pleaded guilty in June 2022 to one count of “Bank Theft” and one count of “False Tax Return.” As a part of the plea agreement, Ritter agrees to pay $97,765.30 in restitution to the bank. Ritter was also ordered to pay $27,374.28 in restitution to the IRS.

Victims in this case were identified and the bank reimbursed the affected accounts immediately after the theft was discovered.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service, the FBI, and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Lockhart, of Davisville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months of incarceration for trying to meet a minor for sex, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Lockhart, 58, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to one count of “Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor.” Lockhart admitted to using his phone to entice a minor in Harrison County to engage in sexual activity in April 2020.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bridgeport Police Department investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Louis Park, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Park, 50, pleaded guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Deliver Cocaine.” Park admitted to the charge after agents seized over two kilograms of powder cocaine and several ounces of crack cocaine from him. A large portion of the cocaine recovered was shipped from Phoenix, Arizona to Mr. Park in Wheeling. Agents also recovered $4,800 in cash and a loaded handgun.

Park faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Wheeling Police Department; and the Belmont County, Ohio Sheriff’s Office investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Austin Jay Robinson, of Belington, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months of incarceration for a methamphetamine charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Robinson, 23, pleaded guilty in June 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Robinson admitted to selling methamphetamine in April 2021 in Barbour County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug Task Force investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph Wayne Dadisman, of Philippi, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 136 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Dadisman, 50, pleaded guilty in February 2022 to one count of “Possession with intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Dadisman admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” and “ice,” in June 2021 in Barbour County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug Task Force and the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ricky R. Johnson, of Masontown, West Virginia, was indicted today on a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Johnson, 41, was indicted today on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Johnson, a person prohibited from having firearms because of prior convictions, is accused of having a .22 caliber pistol in December 2021 in Preston County.

Johnson faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives and the Preston County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Drake D. Dodson-Williams, of Southgate, Michigan, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Dodson-Williams, also known as “KO,” 31, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Dodson-Williams admitted to having methamphetamine in October 2021 in Harrison County.

Dodson-Williams faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Stephen D. Warner will lead the efforts of his office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election.  AUSA Warner has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Northern District of West Virginia, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud.  The Department will address these violations wherever they occur.  The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).  

In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Warner will be on duty in the District while the polls are open.  He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 304-637-2121.

In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 412-432-4000.

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .

Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – An inmate at the Mount Olive Correctional Complex has been charged with threatening to kill a state judge and his family, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Owen Mason Dornon, 22, was indicted today on seven counts of “Mailing Threatening Communications.” It is alleged that Dornon mailed letters to Judge Timothy L. Sweeney in Pleasants County, West Virginia, threatening to harm him and his family. Dornon is presently serving a state prison sentence that was imposed by Judge Sweeney.

Dornon faces up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI investigated with assistance from the West Virginia Division of Corrections.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Arthur Woodrow Pritt, Jr., of Bridgeport, West Virginia, was indicted today on drug charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Pritt, 46, was indicted today on two counts of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Pritt is accused of selling methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” and “ice,” in December 2017 and January 2019 in Harrison County.

Pritt faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – An inmate Federal Corrections Institution Hazelton in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, is facing threat charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Michael J. Carter, 37, was indicted today on 11 counts of “Transmitting Threatening Communication in Interstate Commerce.” Carter is accused of threatening a person in email and by phone from the prison in September and October 2022 in Preston County.

Carter faces up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Prisons., the Prince George’s County Police Department, and the Oxon Hill Division IV Investigations investigated.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Courtney B. Sedler, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was indicted today on threat charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Sedler, 30, was indicted today on three counts of “Influencing Federal Officer by Threat.” Sedler threatened to kill Vincent Kennedy, Chief of the Veterans Affairs Police, on three separate occasions in February, March, and October 2022.

Sedler faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General and the Veterans Affairs Police investigated.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - The leader of an international conspiracy to file false U.S. tax returns and obtain millions of dollars in refunds has been convicted in federal court in West Virginia.

United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced today that Ayodele Arasokun was convicted by a jury on twenty-one counts of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. From a location just outside of Paris, France, Arasokun orchestrated a scheme to file 1,701 false returns and claim $9.1 million in refunds. West Virginians were among those who had their identities stolen and false returns filed in their names. A total of $2.2 million in fraudulent refunds were actually paid by the Internal Revenue Service.

“The jury’s verdict sends a clear message to criminals everywhere: don’t mess with the IRS,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “We have the best cybercrime investigators in the world and if you tamper with our tax system, we will find you, extradite you, and incarcerate you.”

Evidence presented at trial established that Arasokun caused the money obtained from the IRS to be transferred to pre-paid debit cards or to checking accounts that he was monitoring. Investigators discovered that he was tracking approximately 700 U.S.-based accounts containing more than $50 million.

Originally from Nigeria, Arasokun is incarcerated at the Eastern Regional Jail in Martinsburg where he will remain until sentencing. His punishment will be based upon the amount of loss, his prior criminal history, and the penalties called for by statute.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Cogar and Eleanor Hurney. It was investigated by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) - Cybercrime Investigations Division, and the IRS-CI, Los Angeles field office. 

TIGTA investigates abuses of the IRS’s online electronic portals, including the Electronic Filing Pin application, which was compromised in this case.

U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin Edward Haines, of Keyser, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing fentanyl, heroin, crystal methamphetamine, and cocaine, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Haines, age 48, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, Heroin, Crystal Methamphetamine, and Cocaine.” Haines admitted to working with others to sell fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, crystal methamphetamine, and cocaine in January 2020 to January 2021 in Mineral County.

Haines faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.  The task force consists of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation; the Hampshire County Sheriff's Office; the Mineral County Sheriff's Office; the Hardy County Sheriff’s Office; the Grant County Sheriff’s Office; and the Keyser Police Department. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anthony Allen, of Rosenberg, Texas, has admitted to his role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Allen, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances.” Allen admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine base, cocaine hydrochloride, and fentanyl from the Spring of 2018 until October 2020.

Allen faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI's Northern West Virginia Drug Task Force in partnership with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.  The Task Forces have members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Monongalia County Sheriff's Office; and, the Morgantown, WVU, Granville and Star City Police Departments.  The investigation was also assisted by the following law enforcement partners:  the Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI in Houston, Texas; the Houston Police Department's Multi Agency Gang Initiative; the United States Postal Inspection Service in Houston; and, the FBI and DEA in Los Angeles, California.

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

Related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/25-people-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation-spanned-several-states

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brett Leonza Freeman, of Wiley Ford, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Freeman, 38, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride and Cocaine Base.” Freeman admitted to working with others to sell cocaine from July 2020 to August 2021 in Mineral County and elsewhere.

Freeman faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Farrah Doreen Fletcher, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Fletcher, age 45, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Fletcher admitted to working with others to sell methamphetamine from August to October 2021 in Hampshire County and elsewhere.

Fletcher faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives investigated.  The task force consists of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation; the Mineral County Sheriff's Office; the Hardy County Sheriff’s Office; the Grant County Sheriff’s Office; and the Keyser Police Department. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Aaliyah Snowden, of Eastpointe, Michigan, has admitted to her role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Snowden, age 27, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises.” Snowden admitted to working with another to run an apartment in Star City for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine from April to June 2020.

Snowden faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI's Northern West Virginia Drug Task Force in partnership with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.  The Task Forces have members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Monongalia County Sheriff's Office; and the Morgantown, WVU, Granville and Star City Police Departments.  The investigation was also assisted by the following law enforcement partners:  the Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office; the FBI in Houston, Texas; the Houston Police Department's Multi Agency Gang Initiative; the United States Postal Inspection Service in Houston; and the FBI and DEA in Los Angeles, California.

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

Related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/25-people-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation-spanned-several-states

 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason Lewis Bell, of Keystone Heights, Florida, was sentenced today to 37 months of incarceration for a failure to register charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Bell, 35, pleaded guilty in June 2022 to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration.” Bell, a person required to register as a sex offender, admitted to not updating his registration when he lived in Marion County from November 2020 to February 2021.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Marshals Service investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Tara Lynn Leary, of Valley Head, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months of incarceration for a methamphetamine charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Leary, 32, pleaded guilty in May 2022 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute at Least Fifty Grams of Methamphetamine.” Leary admitted to distributing at least 50 grams of methamphetamine fin January 2020 in Randolph County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Deonte Raymond James, of Euclid, Ohio, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

James, 35, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” James admitted to having methamphetamine in January 2022 in Marshall County.

James faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Moundsville Police Department investigated.  The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, assisted.

U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Victor Allen Self, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 148 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Self, 42, pleaded guilty in May 2022 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Self admitted to working with others to sell methamphetamine from May 7, 2019 through August 9, 2019 in Grant County and elsewhere.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Nathanial James Davis, formerly of Marysville, Washington, is facing charges that accuse him of traveling across the country to have sex with a minor in Barbour County, West Virginia, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Davis, 33, was indicted today on one count of “Interstate Travel with Intent to Engage in Sexual Act with a Minor,” one count of “Possession of Child Pornography,” and one count of “Commission of a Felony Offense Involving a Minor by a Person Required to Register as a Sex Offender.” Davis, a registered sex offender, is accused of traveling to West Virginia to engage in sexual conduct with a minor and having child pornography on his phone. The crimes are alleged to have occurred in April and May 2022 in Barbour County and elsewhere.

Davis faces up to 30 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the interstate travel charge. He faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the child pornography charge and faces 10 years in prison for the final charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.

An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dallas Michael Acoff, of Euclid, Ohio, has admitted to drug charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Acoff, also known as “Dal,” 33, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Acoff admitted to selling cocaine, also known as “coke,” cocaine base, also known as “crack,” methamphetamine, and fentanyl in August 2021 and February 2022 in Ohio County.

Acoff faces at least one year and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for the distribution near a protected location charge and faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 each of the remaining charges. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.

 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Sterling C. Davis, of Camden, New Jersey, was sentenced today to 94 months of incarceration for his role in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

After a three-day trial in October 2021, Davis, 44, was found guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute 100 Grams or More of Heroin and 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl” and two counts of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” Davis worked with others to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and 40 grams or more of fentanyl from June 2019 to November 2019 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties and elsewhere.

At trial, the evidence revealed that co-conspirators in West Virginia would wire money for drug payments to Davis in Camden, New Jersey.  The evidence also revealed multiple trips by West Virginia co-conspirators to Camden, New Jersey to obtain large amounts of heroin and fentanyl that were distributed and intended to be redistributed in West Virginia.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office assisted.

U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

Find the related press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/25-charged-six-state-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-cocaine

 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Edward Charles Linkswiler, II, of Keyser, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Linkswiler, 43, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearms.” Linkswiler, a person prohibited from having firearms, admitted to having two semi-automatic pistols in January 2021 in Mineral County.

Linkswiler faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Kion Garrison, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 27 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Garrison, 30, pleaded guilty in July 2022 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting False Statement During Purchase of Firearm.” Garrison admitted to working with another to illegally purchase a .380 caliber pistol from a licensed dealer in Berkeley County in May 2021.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives investigated.

U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marcus Purnell, of Oxon Hill, Maryland, was sentenced today to 15 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Purnell, also known as “Mo,” 35, pleaded guilty in May 2022 to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” Purnell admitted to using a phone to help distribute Eutylone, also known as “Boot,” in November 2020 in Berkeley County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; U.S. Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Harpers Ferry Police Department; and the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C. investigated. The EPDTF consists of the West Virginia State Police, Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the Ranson Police Department, the Charles Town Police Department, and the Martinsburg Police Department.

U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jarrail Lamont Smith, an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Hazelton, was sentenced today to an additional 57 months of incarceration for a bribery charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Smith, 30, pleaded guilty in May 2022 to one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Bribery of Public Officials” and one count of “Bribery of Public Official.” Smith conspired with a correctional officer to smuggle in tobacco products on multiple occasions. In exchange for the tobacco products, Smith used a third party to send cash to the correctional officer via CashApp.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Justice Office of Inspector General investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/former-corrections-officer-admits-bribery-charges

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason Steven Kokinda, of Westover, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 63 months of incarceration for a failure to register charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

After a three-day trial in October 2021, Kokinda, 43, was found guilty of one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registry.” Kokinda, who was previously convicted of sex offenses against children and child pornography charges, failed to update his sex offender registration after traveling from Vermont and New Jersey to West Virginia in August 2019.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon S. Flower and Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Marshals Service, the West Virginia State Police, and the Elkins Police Department investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Robert Simone, III, of Keyser, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Simone, 34, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Crystal Methamphetamine, also known as “Ice.” Simone admitted to working with another to sell 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” in Mineral County and elsewhere from December 2020 to January 2021.

Simone faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10 million. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rachel Lee Flynn, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Flynn, 38, pleaded guilty today to one count of “False Statements During Purchase of a Firearm.” Flynn admitted to falsifying paperwork to purchase a firearm, stating the 9mm pistol was for her when, in fact, was meant for someone else. The crime took place in March 2022 in Morgan County.

Flynn faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kamron Eugene Miller, Sr., of Youngstown, Ohio, has admitted to multiple drug charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Miller, 35, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, Cocaine Hydrochloride, and Cocaine Base,” three counts of “Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine,” one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl.” Miller admitted to working with another to distribute the drugs from May to September 2021 in Hancock County and elsewhere, including the Northern District of Ohio.

His plea also agrees to the forfeiture of more than $210,000 in cash, an assault rifle, a pistol, and several rounds of ammunition seized during the investigation of the case.

Miller faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration for the first five counts and faces up to 20 years of incarceration for the final count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration Wheeling; the Drug Enforcement Administration Youngstown; and the Ohio Highway Patrol investigated. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Mahoning County, Ohio Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation.

U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Betty Arlene Chapman, of Cabins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 41 months of incarceration for her role in a methamphetamine and fentanyl distribution operation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Chapman, 44, pled guilty in April 2021 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute at Least Five Grams of Methamphetamine - Aiding and Abetting.” Chapman admitted to working with others to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine in January 2020 in Grant County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The task force consists of the FBI, West Virginia State Police, Mineral County Sheriff’s Office, Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, Grant County Sheriff’s Office, and the Keyser Police Department.

Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

MORGANTOWN, WEST VIRGINIA – The enforcement of federal civil rights laws will be the focus of a forum to be held next week in Morgantown.

United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld and his staff will host a half-day event on Tuesday, October 11 to highlight the constitutional rights of citizens and how they are enforced through civil and criminal actions. Hate crimes, disability rights, housing rights, and more will be explained by experts in each of those areas of the law.

“Federal civil rights laws are an important tool in our efforts to make communities in West Virginia safer and more welcoming, but they are often overlooked,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “The forum in Morgantown will allow for the public to hear from experts and learn more about the enforcement of laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, and religion.”

The event will begin at 9 am at the Mon County Center at Mylan Park. It is free and open to the public.

To learn more, go to justice.gov/usao-ndwv.

 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kyle Allen Finch, of Hedgesville, West Virginia has admitted to his role in a drug conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Finch, 23, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Eutylone.” Finch admitted to working with others to distribute large quantities of Eutylone, also known as “boot,” from Maryland to Berkeley and Jefferson Counties, West Virginia from February 2019 to March 15, 2022.

Finch faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Martinsburg Police Department; the Montgomery County, Maryland Police Department; the Virginia State Police, Montgomery County; and Maryland State Attorney’s Office investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.