Northern District of West Virginia

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA — A federal court unsealed a two-count indictment today against Monongalia County, West Virginia, Deputy Sheriff Lance Kuretza, 38, for depriving an individual of his civil rights by using excessive force and for writing a false report to cover it up.

According to the indictment, on Jan. 20, 2018, while on duty, Deputy Kuretza subjected the victim to excessive force by punching and elbowing him in the face and, after the victim was handcuffed, spraying him with pepper spray and striking him. The offense resulted in bodily injury and included the use of a dangerous weapon. The indictment further alleges that Deputy Kuretza falsified his use of force report by claiming he used pepper spray before the victim was handcuffed, and by omitting any documentation of post-handcuffing force.

Kuretza was arrested earlier this morning and is scheduled to make his initial court appearance later this morning. If convicted, Kuretza faces up to 10 years in prison for the civil rights violation and up to 20 years in prison for falsifying the report.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney William Ihlenfeld for the Northern District of West Virginia and Special Agent in Charge Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office announced the indictment.

The FBI is investigating the case, with the support of the Monongalia County Sheriff's Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner for the Northern District of West Virginia and Trial Attorney Kyle Boynton of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. 

A federal court unsealed a two-count indictment today against Monongalia County, West Virginia, Deputy Sheriff Lance Kuretza, 38, for depriving an individual of his civil rights by using excessive force and for writing a false report to cover it up.

According to the indictment, on Jan. 20, 2018, while on duty, Kuretza subjected the victim to excessive force by punching and elbowing him in the face and, after the victim was handcuffed, spraying him with pepper spray and striking him. The offense resulted in bodily injury and included the use of a dangerous weapon. The indictment further alleges that Kuretza falsified his use of force report by claiming he used pepper spray before the victim was handcuffed, and by omitting any documentation of post-handcuffing force.

Kuretza was arrested earlier this morning and is scheduled to make his initial court appearance later this morning. If convicted, Kuretza faces up to 10 years in prison for the civil rights violation and up to 20 years in prison for falsifying the report.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney William Ihlenfeld for the Northern District of West Virginia and Special Agent in Charge Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office announced the indictment.

The FBI is investigating the case, with the support of the Monongalia County Sheriff's Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner for the Northern District of West Virginia and Trial Attorney Kyle Boynton of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three men have been indicted in connection with the beating death of James “Whitey” Bulger.

Fotios Geas, also known as “Freddy,” age 55, Paul J. DeCologero, also known as “Pauly,” 48, and Sean McKinnon, 36, were charged on Wednesday with conspiracy to commit first degree murder.

Geas and DeCologero are accused of striking Bulger in the head multiple times and causing his death in October of 2018 while all were incarcerated at United States Penitentiary Hazleton in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia. In addition to the conspiracy charge, Geas and DeCologero have been charged with aiding and abetting first degree murder, along with assault resulting in serious bodily injury.

Geas faces a separate charge for murder by a federal inmate serving a life sentence.

McKinnon faces a separate charge of making false statements to a federal agent.

Geas is still incarcerated at USP Hazelton. DeCologero is no longer being held at USP Hazelton but remains housed in the federal prison system. McKinnon was on federal supervised release at the time of the indictment and was arrested today in Florida.

Bulger was 89 years old when he died.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon S. Flower and Randolph J. Bernard are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI and the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Services investigated.

An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

View the indictment here.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Conner David Patterson, of Valley Grove, West Virginia, has admitted to a child pornography charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Patterson, 21, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Patterson admitted to having child pornography involving a minor under the age of 12 in July 2021 in Ohio County.

Patterson 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 Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI and the West Virginia Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daquan E’mon Hunt, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to 8 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Hunt, 25, pleaded guilty in March 2022 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting False Statement During Purchase of Firearm.” Hunt admitted to making false statements to illegally purchase firearms in July 2021 in Berkeley County.

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

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nicholas Hall, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 96 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Hall, 31, pleaded guilty in March 2022 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Hall, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior felony conviction, admitted to having a .40 caliber pistol and a .22 rifle in Berkeley County in January 2021.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley D. Crockett prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shaquan Omar Richardson, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 168 months of incarceration for his role in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, U.S. Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Richardson, also known as “Wave,” 26, pled guilty in November 2020 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute One Kilogram or More of a Mixture and Substance Containing Phencyclidine (PCP)” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute 280 Grams or More of Cocaine Base.” Richardson admitted to working with others to distribute PCP from August 2019 to September 2019 in Jefferson County and elsewhere. He also admitted to distributing more than 280 grams or more of cocaine base or “crack” in September 2019 in Jefferson County.

This case is the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep.  This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally. 

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.

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. 

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

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Joseph Milot, of Waterbury, Connecticut, was sentenced today to 100 months of incarceration for his role in a firearms trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Milot, 32, pleaded guilty in April 2022 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the False Statement in Connection with the Acquisition of Firearms.” Milot admitted to working with another to illegally purchase two 9mm pistols from a firearms dealer in December 2020 in Marion County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua H. Ruschel, of Valley Grove, West Virginia, has admitted to a child pornography charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Ruschel, 42, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Ruschel admitted to having child pornography depicting a child under the age of 12 in June 2020 in Ohio County.

Ruschel 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 Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Leroy Dillow, Jr., of Petersburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Dillow, 35, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Dillow admitted to selling methamphetamine in June 2021 in Grant County.

Dillow 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 Stephen D. Warner 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 Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shadeed Redd, of Hagerstown, Maryland, has admitted to a cocaine charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Redd, 42, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Base and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Redd admitted to working with others to sell cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” from November 2020 to March 2021 in Berkeley County.

Redd 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 FBI; U.S. Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Washington County Narcotics Task Force. 

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Otis Tillman, of Hagerstown, Maryland, has admitted to a cocaine charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Tillman, 50, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Base and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Tillman admitted to working with others to sell cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” from November 2020 to March 2021 in Berkeley County.

Tillman 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 FBI; U.S. Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Washington County Narcotics Task Force. 

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeffrey McKinley Rodgers, of Petersburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Rodgers, 31, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Rodgers admitted to having more than five grams of methamphetamine in July 2021 in Grant County.

Rodgers faces at least five and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000. 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 Stephen D. Warner 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 Michael John Aloi presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Margaret Ann Moffitt, of Sistersville, West Virginia, has admitted to mail fraud, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Moffitt, 63, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Mail Fraud.” Moffitt stole money from the estate of someone in the amount of $156,744.87. As the executor of the estate, she made cash withdrawals and endorsed checks to be mailed to people not associated with the estate in any way. She then caused checks to be mailed to the beneficiaries of the state, knowing the funds were no longer in the account. She stopped payments on those checks because she knew the funds were gone. The crimes occurred from August 2019 to December 2020 in Tyler and Wetzel Counties.

Moffitt 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 Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Wet Virginia State Police and the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney for Tyler County investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Shawn L. Price, an inmate at Federal Corrections Institution Gilmer, was sentenced today to 60 months of incarceration for a threat charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Price, 42, pleaded guilty in May 2022 to one count of “Transmitting Threatening Communications in Interstate Commerce.” Price threatened someone by phone in November 2021. According to the indictment, the threat included breaking the subject’s neck and torturing the subject.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Prisons investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Curtis Jones, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a fentanyl charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Jones, 25, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin and Fentanyl in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Jones admitted to selling heroin and fentanyl near Emmanuel Christian School in May 2020 in Harrison County.

Jones faces at least one year and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nathaniel Lee Williams, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II announced.

Williams, also known as “Sticks,” 64, pleaded guilty in August 2021 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Five Grams or more of Methamphetamine.” Williams admitted to having 37.43 grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” or “ice,” in August 2018 in Marion County. As a part of the plea agreement, Williams also admitted that he sold more than a half of a gram of fentanyl during three separate buys in July 2020.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force and the Fairmont Police Department investigated.

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

Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/west-virginia-and-detroit-residents-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kaemon Bernard-Donyell King, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 12 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

King, also known as “Twin,” 20, pleaded guilty in March 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl in Proximity to a Protected Location.” King admitted to selling fentanyl near Fairmont Senior High School and Fairmont State University in July 2020 in Marion County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force and the Fairmont Police Department investigated.

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

Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/west-virginia-and-detroit-residents-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Derek David Henderson of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 60 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Henderson, 42, pleaded guilty in March 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Five Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Henderson admitted to working with another to sell more than five grams of methamphetamine in May 2019.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force and the Fairmont Police Department investigated.

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

Find the related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/west-virginia-and-detroit-residents-indicted-drug-trafficking-operation

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Darius Alexander Savage, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Savage, 24, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Stealing Firearm from a Dealer.” Savage admitted to stealing three pistols from a licensed firearms dealer in February 2022 in Ohio County.

Savage 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 Clayton J. Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

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

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

Mickens, 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.” Mickens 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.

Mickens 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 and Timothy D. Helman are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments on Tuesday against alleged large-scale dealers of fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine operating in Ohio County, according to United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld.

Yesterday, Solomon Watters, age 26 of Cleveland, Ohio was indicted for conspiring to distribute over 1.2 kilograms of fentanyl in Ohio County and elsewhere. Investigators seized $212,000 in cash from Watters and his co-conspirator, Chelsea Banks, 26, of Wheeling, along with three guns.

Christopher Park, age 50 of Wheeling, was indicted for possession with the intent to deliver 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.

David Lee McCracken, age 38 of Moundsville, has been indicted for possessing a large quantity of methamphetamine in his hotel room at The Highlands earlier this year. Investigators also recovered $3,200 in cash.

Michael Shawndale Davis, age 38, was indicted for possession of ammunition by a prohibited person after he allegedly fired shots outside of the Formosa Apartments on Eoff Street in Wheeling. Davis has several prior felony convictions, including one for drug trafficking. On June 25, 2022, surveillance footage captured Davis shooting a gun at an acquaintance.

“Our state and federal agents are to be commended for intercepting such significant amounts of fentanyl, cocaine, and cash,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “These drug seizures saved lives and disrupted the flow of drugs from the Southwest border to the streets of Wheeling, West Virginia.”

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins, Clayton J. Reid, and David J. Perri are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Wheeling Police Department; the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department; the Belmont County (OH) Sheriff’s Department; and the Pennsylvania State Police assisted with one or more of the investigations.

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

View the filed indictments below:

Watters et al Indictment

Park Indictment

McCracken Indictment

Davis Indictment

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tara Morgan, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Morgan, 49, pleaded guilty today to one count of “False Statement in Connection with the Acquisition of Firearms.” Morgan admitted to working with another to make false statements to purchase a firearm from a licensed dealer in May 2020 in Monongalia County.

Morgan faces up to 10 years of incarceration and 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kenneth Jones, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Jones, 27, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Jones admitted to having methamphetamine in May 2021 in Monongalia County.

Jones faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000. 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration Clarksburg Regional Office; the FBI Clarksburg; the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; the Morgantown Police Department; the WVU Police Department; the DEA Cincinnati District Office; the DEA Detroit Field Division; and the FBI Detroit investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

See related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/michigan-morgantown-drug-ring-disrupted-federal-indictment

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Alyssa Paige Miller, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a fentanyl charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Miller, 24, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Miller admitted to working with another to sell fentanyl in January and February 2021 in Berkeley County.

Miller 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 Timothy D. Helman 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 – Jennifer Hardy, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Hardy, 32, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Hardy admitting to working with another to sell cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in February 2021 in Berkeley County.

Hardy 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 Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Kyle, of Weirton, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Kyle, also known as “Young Boi,” 31, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Kyle admitted to selling methamphetamine in May 2021 in Ohio County.

Kyle 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 Clayton J. Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Dewayne Simmons, of Elkins, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Simmons, 29, pleaded guilty in February 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine—Aiding and Abetting.” Simmons admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 2020 in Randolph 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.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Loretta Jean Minor, of Moundsville, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Minor, 44, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Minor admitted to having methamphetamine in January 2022 in Marshall County.

Minor 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 Clayton J. Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Alante Martel Nelson, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 151 months of incarceration for drug and firearms charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Nelson, 29, pleaded guilty in February 2022 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Nelson admitted to having heroin in August 2020 in Monongalia County. Nelson, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, also admitted to having a .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Morgantown Police Department investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Francisco Chanes, of Los Angeles, California, was sentenced today to 188 months of incarceration for his role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Chanes, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances” and one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” Chanes admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine base, cocaine hydrochloride, and fentanyl from the Spring of 2018 until October 2020.

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 Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Johnnie Lee Harris, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Harris, also known as “Jay,” 42, pled guilty in October 2020 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of Protected Location.” Harris admitted to selling methamphetamine near River Towers in Wheeling in September 2019.

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

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Descott Thomas Fedee, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Fedee, 32, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Fedee, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, admitted to having a .380 caliber pistol in May 2021 in Berkeley County.

Fedee 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 Kimberley D. Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jayce Allen Holben, III, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a fentanyl charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Holben, 21, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Fentanyl.” Holben admitted to selling fentanyl in January 2021 in Berkeley County.

Holben 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 Eastern Panhandle 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 – Two Maryland men and a West Virginia man were indicted this week on multiple drug charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

The three are accused of working together to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine base, and Eutylone, also known as “boot.” Those charged are:

• Steven Bernard Parker, Jr., also known as “Mac Man,” 43, of Baltimore, Maryland
• Danny Otero Johnson, Jr., also known as “Black,” 39, of Owings Mill, Maryland
• Travis Jackson Latta, 34, of Martinsburg, West Virginia

The crimes are alleged to have occurred from April 2021 to June 2021 in Berkeley County and elsewhere.

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

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Cheyenne Mary Katherine Winning, of Montrose, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Winning, 30, pleaded guilty in February 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine—Aiding and Abetting.” Winning admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 2020 in Randolph 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.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jamal Dashawn Harris, of Baltimore, Maryland, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Harris, 29, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Harris, a person prohibited from having firearms, admitted to having a .22 magnum in September 2021 in Berkeley County.

Harris 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, & Explosives investigated.

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – David Lee Hockenberry, of Fisher, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Hockenberry, 49, pleaded guilty in February 2022 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute More Than Five Grams of Methamphetamine.” Hockenberry admitted to having more than five grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” and “ice,” in Hardy County in March 2021.

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, investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Chellsie S. Boyer, of Weirton, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Boyer, 32, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of 5 Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Boyer admitted to selling more than five grams of methamphetamine in November 2021 in Hancock County.

Boyer faces at least five years and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000. 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 Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – An inmate previously housed at United States Penitentiary Hazleton was sentenced yesterday to 25 years after admitting to second degree murder in a 2012 death of another inmate, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Michael Owle, 33, pled guilty to aiding and abetting second degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon in the death of inmate Anthony M. Dallas. Owle, along with Ruben Laurel, 43, repeatedly stabbed and cut Dallas, killing him on August 29, 2012, at USP Hazleton in Preston County. Dallas suffered nearly 50 stab wounds, wounding him in the heart, lungs, and liver. Another inmate also suffered injuries during the attack but survived.

Laurel was sentenced to 25 years of incarceration on July 11, 2022.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin Lawrence Jarrett, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Jarrett, also known as “Six,” 32, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Five Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Jarrett admitted to distributing more than five grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” and “ice,” in in august 2019 in Marion County.

Jarrett faces at least five and up 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000. 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Kion Garrison, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Garrison, 30, pleaded guilty today 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.

Garrison 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, & Explosives investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Franklin Keith Dotson, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Dotson, 38, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Dotson admitted to having methamphetamine in July 2021 in Marshall County.

Dotson 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 Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office, and the Marshall County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Blake Aron Davis, of Bellaire, Ohio, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Davis, 29, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Davis admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 2021 in Marshall County.

Davis 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 Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Taylor Dawn Marlow, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Marlow, 29, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting False Statement During Purchase of Firearm.” Marlow admitted to working with another to illegally purchase a .380 caliber pistol from a licensed dealer in Berkeley County in May 2021.

Marlow 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, & Explosives investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nicole Renee Halterman, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a child pornography charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Halterman, 32, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Halterman admitted to having child pornography in March 2021 in Monongalia County.

Halterman 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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Leroy Raymund Charleston, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Charleston, 39, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Charleston admitted to distributing methamphetamine near Fairmont State University in February 2020.

Charleston faces at least one and up 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Bukiye Hatten, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Hatten, 38, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the False Statement in Connection with the Acquisition of Firearms.” Hatten admitted to working with others to illegally purchase several firearms from a licensed dealer in Monongalia County in November 2019.

Hatten 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

WASHINGTON - Today, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced the recipients for the 69th Annual Attorney General’s Awards, recognizing Department of Justice employees and partners for extraordinary contributions to the enforcement of our nation’s laws. This year, 298 Justice Department employees received awards, while 54 non-department individuals are also being honored for their work. 

“This year’s awardees have served selflessly to further the Department’s important work upholding the rule of law, keeping our country safe, and protecting civil rights,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “I am proud to recognize these individuals for their professionalism, skill, and leadership, and I am grateful for their service to our Department and our nation.”

“This group worked countless hours to ensure that there was accountability for the horrific crimes committed by Reta Mays,” said United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. “Their tremendous efforts helped to bring some measure of justice for the victims and closure for their families.”

The Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service is the department’s second highest award for employee performance. The team that investigated and prosecuted the case against Reta Mays, the serial killer who took the lives of eight veterans at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Clarksburg were one of 15 teams honored with this award. The Distinguished Award is presented to Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Brandon S. Flower, Victim-Witness Coordinator Christina M. Frizzell of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of West Virginia; Special Agents Ashley E. Archibald and John D. Large, Pittsburgh Division, FBI; Resident Agent in Charge Colin Davis, and Special Agent Keith Vereb, Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Veterans Affairs.

“The defendant’s guilty plea is a testament to the strength of the case developed from a highly complex investigation involving a close partnership between the VA Office of Inspector General, the US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia, and the FBI, with the invaluable assistance of the West Virginia State Police and the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force,” said VA Inspector General Michael J. Missal. “Their tireless and dedicated efforts resulted in solving this series of heinous crimes against veterans and providing some measure of closure for the victims’ families.”

“I’m extremely proud of the work done by my agents, the VA OIG, and the U.S. Attorney’s office on the Reta Mays investigation,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “I want to thank Attorney General Garland for recognizing this team. The results of this case and the efforts of everyone involved are a testament to the excellent collaboration we have with our law enforcement partners and the US Attorney’s Office. This case demonstrates the value and effectiveness of partnerships to ensure justice for all of the citizens we serve and protect.”

Read more about the case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/former-va-hospital-nursing-assistant-sentenced-seven-consecutive-life-sentences

There are 20 other categories for awards that were given today. For a full list, go to www.justice.gov/news.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ronald Michael Bowers, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Bowers, 53, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine Base, and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Bowers 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.

Bowers 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 and Timothy D. Helman 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.