Northern District of West Virginia

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Henrico, Virginia man has admitted identity theft and money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

Michael K. Vordjorbe, 30, pled guilty today to aggravated identity theft and transactional money laundering. According to court documents and statements made in court, Vordjorbe worked with others to withdraw funds from accounts at several banks, some in the Northern District of West Virginia, by assuming the identities of the account holders without their knowledge or permission. Once the funds were illegally obtained, Vordjorbe and others would deposit the money into another account to hide the theft. The total amount fraudulent funds obtained totaled $137,000 and total relevant conduct amount of the fraud was between $550,000 and $1.5 million.

Vordjorbe faces up to two years in prison for identity theft and faces up to 10 years for money laundering. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

Investigative agencies include the FBI; the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations; the U.S. Postal Service, Loudon County, Virginia; and the Stamford, Connecticut Police Department. 

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Maryland residents have admitted to selling illegal narcotics in Berkeley County, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

Terrell Antonio Henderson, 34, of Halethorpe, Maryland, pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of cocaine base. According to court records and his plea agreement, Henderson conspired with others to traffic drugs from Baltimore to the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. The investigation culminated in a controlled buy at a parking lot in Spring Mills, where law enforcement witnessed the transaction. A subsequent search of Henderson’s vehicle uncovered the buy money, additional drugs, and various drug paraphernalia.

In a separate matter, 31-year-old Elisa Owens of Hagerstown, Maryland, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine, cocaine base, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. Owens acted as a distributor for a trafficking ring operating between Hagerstown and Berkeley County, West Virginia. Following a period of surveillance, officers conducted a traffic stop and a probable cause search of her vehicle, which resulted in the seizure of cocaine.

Henderson and Owens each face up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.

Investigative agencies include the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration, Hagerstown, Maryland; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Maryland State Police; the Hagerstown Police Department; and the Washington County (MD) Sheriff’s Office.

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

Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man has admitted to selling fentanyl near two schools, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Joseph Angiulli, also known as “Joey,” 32, pled guilty to the distribution of fentanyl within 1000 feet of a protected location. According to court documents, Angiulli was selling fentanyl from his home, which is near North View Elementary School and Emmanuel Christian School, both protected locations.

Angiulli is facing at least one year and up to 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley 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.

Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three people are facing charges for illegally transported wildlife across state lines, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

A federal indictment charges Brian Poling, 51, of Albright, West Virginia; Levi S. Weaver,74, of Fredericksburg, Ohio; and Leroy M. Miller, 40, of Millersburg, Ohio; with violations of the Lacey Act. As charged in the indictment, Poling, the manager of Dream Mountain Ranch in Preston County, West Virginia, conspired with Miller and Weaver, to illegally transport in interstate commerce live deer without health certificates as required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“West Virginians have long depended on a healthy and diverse wildlife population to feed our families, make memories, and enjoy our great outdoors.” said U.S. Attorney Harvey. “It is our shared heritage and will be protected.”

Under U.S. Department of Agriculture regulations, anyone who transports live deer in interstate commerce (across state lines) is required to ensure that the animals are accompanied by an Interstate Certificate of Veterinarian Inspection (ICV) and proof of a tuberculosis test. These regulations are aimed at curtailing the spread of a variety of deadly diseases including tuberculosis, brucellosis, and chronic wasting disease - a fatal, contagious neurological illness that can infect some deer and other animals like elk and moose. Additional information about cervid disease prevention and management is available here: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/cervid.

"The illegal transport of live deer poses a serious threat to people, wildlife, and the economy. Deer can carry deadly zoonotic diseases that may be spread to humans, livestock, and other animals. Without proper safeguards, outbreaks can occur that disrupt hunting traditions and jeopardize farm livelihoods,” said Doug Ault, Assistant Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement. “We remain firmly committed to working with our state and federal partners to protect the American public and preserve our nation's natural resources for sustainable use by future generations.”

"This investigation is a clear example of why partnerships between state and federal agencies are so vital,” said Col. Alberto Maza, director of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Division of Law Enforcement. "The investigators and agents involved in this case should be commended for their dedication and hard work that led to these charges.”

Poling, Weaver, and Miller each face up to 5 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

 An indictment is merely an allegation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –IntegraLabs, Inc. (Integra), a Tennessee based corporation, has agreed to pay a combined total of $208,624.40 to the United States of America and State of West Virginia for improper billings made to the West Virginia Medicaid Program. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia and the Office of the West Virginia Attorney General, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, partnered to hold this laboratory responsible for its False Claims Act violations. 

“This joint effort between the Department of Justice and the State of West Virginia is an example of a successful federal and state partnership which yielded real results in combatting fraud, waste, and abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “I commend the investigative team for its skillful work in this matter and look forward to future cooperative endeavors to protect the West Virginia Medicaid program.”

"We are committed to protecting the integrity of West Virginia's Medicaid program and this settlement reflects that commitment and what is possible when state and federal partners work together. Fraudulent billing robs taxpayers and hurts the patients the program is designed to serve — and we will continue to pursue those who abuse it," Attorney General McCuskey said.

Integra provides laboratory services, including drug testing, and is enrolled in the West Virginia Medicaid Provider network. According to the settlement, the United States and State of West Virgina contend Integra violated the law by repeatedly submitting billings to the West Virginia Medicaid program for medically unnecessary testing ordered by medical providers over a two-year period.  Specifically, it is alleged that Integra submitted improper claims for specimen validity testing that were not allowable.

This case was litigated on behalf of the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Prezioso and Jordan V. Palmer. It is the result of a cooperative investigation by the Department of Justice; the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, West Virginia Medicaid Fraud Control Unit; the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General; and the West Virginia Bureau for Medical Services.

The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

The West Virginia Attorney General Medicaid Fraud Control Unit receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $3,094,936.70 for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2026. The remaining 25 percent, totaling $1,031,645.56 for FY 2026, is funded by The State of West Virginia.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – An Alma, West Virginia woman is facing 15 years in prison after pleading to a methamphetamine charge, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Jamie Ann Tanner, 44, of Alma, West Virginia, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. During an investigation into Tanner’s drug activity, officers executed a search warrant at her home, where they seized more than 1200 grams of methamphetamine.

Tanner is facing 180 months in prison per the plea agreement. She will be sentenced at a later date.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

Investigative agencies include Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office; and the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office.

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

This case is a part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia man has been federally charged with making threats against President Donald J. Trump and Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

“Threats of violence and death against President Trump and our brave law enforcement partners will not be tolerated in the Northern District of West Virginia,” said U.S. Attorney Harvey. “We take threats seriously, regardless of how they are made, and will prosecute those who make them to the fullest extent of the law.”

Cody Lee Smith, 20, was indicted on two counts of threats to murder the President, one count of influencing and retaliating against federal officials by threat of murder, and one count of influencing a federal official by threat of murder. According to the indictment, Smith made a series of public posts on Instagram that encouraged and threatened the murder of President Trump, citizens who support the President (including members of the military), Israelis, and “all government officials.”  The indictment also alleges that Smith sent a direct message via Instagram to Donald J. Trump, Jr., stating he would kill his father, President Trump, by cutting his “jugular.” In a phone call with the ICE tip line, Smith also threatened to kill ICE agents in Clarksburg, West Virginia and employee staffing the tip line.

"The safety and security of law enforcement personnel is our highest priority at Homeland Security Investigations," said HSI Washington, D.C. Special Agent in Charge Eric Weindorf. "HSI is committed to actively pursuing anyone who threatens the brave agents and officers who protect our communities. We will work tirelessly to investigate these threats and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”

“The safety and security of those we protect is our highest priority and all threats against the President of the United States will be investigated and prosecuted,” said Tad Lipscomb, the Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Charleston, West Virginia Resident Office. “We are grateful for our law enforcement partners at HSI, the FBI, the West Virginia State Police, and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, as well as the federal prosecutors at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia for their assistance during this case.”

Smith faces up to 5 years for each of the presidential threat charges and faces up to 10 years in federal prison for each of the remaining counts. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

Investigative agencies include Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Secret Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

View the indictment here.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Wood County, West Virginia man has admitted to possessing methamphetamine in Ohio County, WV with the  intent to distribute the drugs, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

Jarrett Aaron Moran, 31, pled guilty today to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to court documents, Moran was traveling from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to deliver drugs to someone in West Virginia. The vehicle Moran was riding in was stopped by law enforcement, and officers seized 26 grams of methamphetamine, along with a small amount of cocaine and fentanyl.

Moran faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Morgantown, West Virginia man will spend the next 20 years in federal prison for multiple counts of receiving and possessing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Christopher Harp, 41, was sentenced today to 240 months in prison. Harp was convicted at trial in April 2024 of three counts of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.

“Despite Harp’s efforts to deny responsibility and place blame elsewhere, a jury of his peers found him guilty as charged. This sentence will ensure that his criminal activity is punished, and the community is protected,” said U.S. Attorney Harvey. “Child predators will be held accountable and face the maximum sentence in the Northern District of West Virginia.”

“Behind every image and every video is real child who has been harmed. Today’s sentence makes clear that exploitation of children in our community will never be tolerated.,” said FBI Pittsburgh Acting Special Agent in Charge Amie Loos. “The FBI and our partners will aggressively investigate these cases, bring every resource available to root out perpetrators, and hold offenders accountable for their crimes.”

FBI agents identified Harp as someone who was sharing and receiving child pornography online. Investigators searched his devices and flash drives, discovering hundreds of downloads, many of the videos and images including children under the age of 12. Evidence showed that Harp had been engaging in this illegal activity for nearly 10 years.

Harp will serve 10 years of supervised release following his prison sentence and was ordered to pay $30,000 in restitution to victims of child exploitation.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Conklin and David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Four people have entered guilty pleas in connection to methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking in the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Steven Anthony Blatt, 63, and Jeanetta Nicole Sigler, 50, both of Paden City, West Virginia, each pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Blatt, also known as “Stevie,” and Sigler worked together to sell methamphetamine in Wetzel and Tyler Counties. Following a trip to Morgantown to pick up drugs, officers stopped Blatt and Sigler and seized 427 grams of methamphetamine from their vehicle.

D'Angelo Jones, 29, of Wheeling, West Virginia, admitted to possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl. Jones was selling heroin and fentanyl in Ohio County. Investigators seized 20 grams of heroin and fentanyl, along with a firearm and $1,200 from his residence on Wheeling Island.

Roland N. Copney, 37, of Wheeling, West Virginia, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. During an investigation of gunshots being fired on Wheeling Island, Copney was identified as a possible subject. Officers executed a search warrant at his residence and seized more than 200 grams of methamphetamine, 12 grams of fentanyl, and ammunition.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clayton Reid and Jennifer Conklin are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.

Investigative agencies include the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Wheeling Police Department.

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

Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Chicago, Illinois man was sentenced today for operating a drug distribution organization that transported fentanyl from Chicago, Illinois, to Weirton, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Gerald Henry, also known as “Unc,” “G,” and “G-ball,” age 41, was sentenced to 480 months in federal prison for the possession and distribution of 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Henry transported large quantities of fentanyl to Hancock County, West Virginia to distribute to others for sale. Investigators seized more than 400 grams of fentanyl, a firearm, and ammunition from a search of Henry’s Weirton residence. Agents linked 1,435 grams of fentanyl to Henry during the investigation. Henry has a lengthy criminal history that includes multiple drug convictions.

“Henry was responsible for enough fentanyl to kill every man, woman, and child of the Upper Ohio Valley six times over,” said U.S. Attorney Harvey. “I commend our law enforcement partners for their diligence in getting this poison out of our communities and saving lives.”

Jasmine McCullough, 42, of Chicago, Illinois; Stephen Price, 40, of Chicago, Illinois; Daniel Pail Truax, 47, of Weirton, West Virginia; Paula Jean Truax, 45, of Weirton, West Virginia; and William Dean Tredway, 36, of Colliers, West Virginia have each previously entered guilty pleas for their roles in the operation. Tredway was sentenced to 9 months in prison. The others’ sentencings are pending.

Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clayton Reid and Carly Nogay prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

Investigative agencies include the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the United States Marshals Service; the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office; the Brooke County Sheriff’s Office; the Weirton Police Department; the West Virginia State Police; the Jefferson County, Ohio, Sheriff’s Office; the Steubenville, Ohio, Police Department;  and the Wheeling Police Department.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided. 

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeremy Mongold, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was convicted of illegally purchasing and transferring a firearm that was later used in another crime, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

“Mongold intentionally lied so he could purchase a pistol for a violent person who was prohibited from possessing firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Harvey. “That pistol was subsequently used in a serious crime, and Mongold lied to federal agents to cover his tracks. Now he faces a prison sentence.”

“By lying on an ATF form to purchase a firearm for his brother, Jeremy Mongold contributed to additional violent crime. As a result of his actions, he will now serve a lengthy federal prison sentence,” said Special Agent in Charge John Nokes, ATF.

Following a two-day trial, a jury found Mongold, 47, guilty of making a false statement to purchase a firearm, the unlawful transfer of a firearm, and making a false statement to a federal agent. Mongold’s brother, Zachary Mongold, is prohibited from having firearms because of a prior domestic battery conviction. The jury was presented evidence that Zachary attempted to purchase a firearm and was denied. The following day, Jeremy purchased the same pistol. When questioned about the firearm, Jeremy lied to federal agents about its intended owner. The gun was later used in a serious crime in Pendleton County, West Virginia.

Zachary Mongold pled guilty to a federal charge of the unlawful possession of a firearm connected to this case in December 2025. He will be sentenced at a later date.

Jeremy Mongold is facing up to 15 years for the transfer count. He’s facing up to 10 years for the false statement for the firearm charge, and he faces up to 5 years for the false statement to a federal agent. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Cogar and Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Monongalia County, West Virginia man was sentenced today for illegally possessing a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Jamie Russell Jones, 47, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison. Law enforcement officers responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle and observed Jones exit from the car. Officers smelled marijuana and proceeded to lawfully search the vehicle. A backpack with three handguns, some methamphetamine and marijuana, and an empty firearm magazine were seized from the vehicle. All three firearms had been reported stolen from a home in Gassaway, West Virginia, in 2024. Jones is prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior firearms and theft convictions.

Jones will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Will Rhee prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia State Police, and the Gassaway Police Department investigated.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Clarksburg, West Virginia woman has admitted to selling hundreds of grams of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

Taylor Danielle Jenkins, 32, pled guilty today to possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. According to court documents, Jenkins was selling methamphetamine and fentanyl in Harrison County. During two traffic stops, investigators seized more than 800 grams of methamphetamine, 203 grams of fentanyl, three firearms, and $6,006 in cash from Jenkins’ vehicle.

As a part of the plea agreement, Jenkins has agreed to forfeit the three firearms, associated ammunition, and the cash.

Jenkins faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner 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.

Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Bobby Cobb, age 55, of Buckhannon, West Virginia was sentenced today to 120 months in federal prison for making interstate threats and the unlawful possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Over a period of several weeks, Cobb sent a series of by text messages and emails to an individual threatening to injure and kill the victim, her family members, and friends. Officers executed a search warrant on Cobb’s home and seized a shotgun. Cobb has a previous conviction of domestic violence, prohibiting him from possessing firearms.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office; and the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

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MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Charles Town, West Virginia man was sentenced for selling fentanyl that resulted in an overdose death, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

Clark Grove Corbin, 50, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Corbin sold fentanyl to an individual who later died from ingesting the fentanyl. During a search of Corbin’s home, investigators seized more than 9 grams of fentanyl and 2 grams of cocaine. Corbin has prior convictions, including involuntary manslaughter/DUI that resulted in death.

“Those who are selling poison in our neighborhoods and putting profits over life will face severe consequences,” said U.S Attorney Harvey.

Corbin will serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia woman has admitted to stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from her employer, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

Brittaney Allura Hall, 36, pled guilty to one count of wire fraud. According to court documents, Hall was an office manager and accountant for a business in Martinsburg and had access to the company’s financial information and accounts.  As part of her unlawful scheme, Hall conducted financial transactions that caused overpayments of payroll in reimbursements and commissions to which she wasn’t entitled.  She also wrote checks to herself without authority and created false invoices which caused unauthorized payments to be made for her own financial benefit.

As a part of the plea agreement, Hall has agreed to pay $258,143.51 in restitution.

Hall faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge would determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

The FBI and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated. 

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

Today, the U.S. Department of Justice and West Virginia’s Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP) announced a proposed settlement with Antero Resources Corporation resolving alleged Clean Air Act and West Virginia Air Pollution Control violations involving the company’s oil and gas production operations in West Virginia and Ohio.

Under the proposed consent decree, Antero will undertake various projects to assess, modify, and improve monitoring and maintenance of vapor control systems at 242 of its oil and gas production facilities located in West Virginia and Ohio. These compliance projects, estimated to cost approximately $5.8 million, will result in a reduction of more than 1,100 tons of volatile organic compounds (VOC) emissions annually.

Antero agreed to pay a $3.8 million civil penalty, divided between the United States and the state of West Virginia, a co-plaintiff in this case.

“Today’s settlement demonstrates the Justice Department’s renewed commitment to common-sense, even-handed enforcement of the Clean Air Act,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “I applaud Antero for taking responsibility to settle these important claims in a way that promotes the public interest and secures cleaner air.”

“The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia is proud to have partnered with the State of West Virginia in reaching this settlement,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey for the Northern District of West Virginia. “This settlement exemplifies how a reasonable application of the Clean Air Act can benefit the citizens of West Virginia without posing an undue burden on continued oil and natural gas production.”

“This settlement demonstrates how coordinated enforcement among state and federal partners promotes accountability, reduces harmful emissions, and delivers meaningful environmental results,” said WVDEP Secretary Harold Ward. “The WVDEP and its Division of Air Quality thank everyone involved and are proud to finalize an agreement that brings cleaner air directly to West Virginians through the measures established today.”

This settlement resolves Antero’s failure to comply with federal and state requirements to capture and control air emissions from oil and gas production facilities in West Virginia and Ohio. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and WVDEP identified the alleged violations through field investigations conducted in 2017 and 2019. As a result of these violations, Antero released VOCs into the air instead of capturing and controlling the emissions using specially designed equipment.

Under the settlement, Antero will take the necessary steps to ensure that its systems to control pollutants from atmospheric storage tanks are adequately designed and properly operated and maintained. Antero’s selected compliance plan includes an innovative automated response when the required tank pressure or combustion control device pilot monitor indicates that there may have been a release of VOCs into the atmosphere. The response system includes an alert to company representatives and temporarily ceases production operations associated with the over-pressured tank or unlit combustion control device. Once the pressure level falls back to normal or when the combustion control device is relit, production will restart. The settlement also requires a third party to verify Antero’s compliance with the agreement. These actions will significantly reduce harmful emissions from the company’s oil and gas operations.

Antero is also undertaking two VOC emission reduction projects to mitigate the environmental and public health harm attributable to their violations. First, it will permanently plug and remediate orphaned and abandoned oil and gas wells in West Virginia as part of a $1.5 million project conducted over a period of three years. Second, it will enhance its well unloading operations so that gas that is periodically vented into the atmosphere can be recovered or routed to a control device.  

Antero Resources Corporation is a publicly traded company headquartered in Denver and engaged in the exploration, development, production and acquisition of natural gas, natural gas liquids, and oil properties in the Appalachian Basin. It holds more than 500,000 acres of natural gas, natural gas liquids, and oil properties in this area, primarily in the Marcellus and Utica Shales.

The consent decree was filed with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia and is subject to a 30-day comment period. The complaint and the proposed consent decree are available at www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.

Attorneys with ENRD’s Environmental Enforcement Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia are handling this matter.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Romanian National has admitted to placing credit card skimming devices in several retailers in the Northern District of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

Andrei Daniel Fagaras, age 36, illegally in the United States, pled guilty today to an access device fraud charge. According to the plea agreement, Fagaras worked with another defendant, Madalin Olar, to place a credit card skimming device at a self-checkout register in a Clarksburg, WV grocery store. The device was intended to collect credit card and debit card numbers which would in turn would allow fraudsters access to those credit cards and bank accounts. Fagaras was responsible for placing other skimming devices at nine locations across West Virginia. The estimated amount of intended fraud totals approximately $250,000.

Olar, a Romanian National, age 31, is facing six access device charges related to this case. His case is pending.

Fagaras faces up to 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

The Clarksburg Police Department investigated. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Sara L. Jackson, age 49, of Keyser, West Virginia, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

Jackson conspired with another individual to sell large amounts of fentanyl, some pressed into pills, as well as methamphetamine in Mineral County. A search warrant executed at a Jackson’s apartment recovered nearly 1300 grams of fentanyl and 788 grams of methamphetamine.

Jackson will serve three years of supervised release following her prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia man was sentenced today for cocaine and firearms offenses, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

Antoine Terrell Cotton, also known as “Tony,” 44, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime. As part of the investigation, a search of Cotton’s home was conducted.  During the search, investigators seized hundreds of grams of cocaine and a firearm. Cotton has prior drug convictions.

Cotton will serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the FBI investigated.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Baltimore, Maryland man was sentenced for his role in distributing fentanyl in Hampshire County, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

Dorian Andre Ward, also known as “Tay Blue,” age 32, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute fentanyl. Ward was supplying others with fentanyl to be sold in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia and elsewhere. A federal search warrant was executed at Ward’s home and investigators seized 20 grams of fentanyl, $10,000, and a loaded 9mm pistol. Ward has prior drug, assault, and theft convictions.

Ward will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Rock Cave, West Virginia man has admitted to selling methamphetamine in Upshur County, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Colton Darrell Lester, 37, pled guilty today to the distribution of more than 5 grams of methamphetamine.  During the investigation, agents purchased methamphetamine from Lester on several occasions.

Lester faces at least 5 and up to 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge would determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

The Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Keyser, West Virginia man has admitted to working with others in the distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine in Mineral County, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Lucas Earl Shoemaker, 34, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine hydrochloride. Shoemaker used his residence on Knobley Road in Keyser to operate the drug trafficking organization. Investigators received information that led them to obtain and execute a search warrant at the Knobley Road residence, where substantial quantities of fentanyl, high-purity methamphetamine, cocaine, firearms, ammunition, cash, and drug distribution materials were seized.

On September 24, 2024, law enforcement officers encountered Shoemaker following a 911 call reporting suspicious and dangerous behavior at a Mineral County business. Officers located Shoemaker and who was in possession of a loaded Springfield XD .45-caliber handgun concealed on his person, and a Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 rifle located inside his vehicle. Shoemaker was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance. Officers also recovered fentanyl from the vehicle, along with syringes indicative of ongoing drug use and drug trafficking activity.

Shoemaker’s guilty plea reflects accountability for his role in distributing fentanyl and unlawfully possessing firearms—conduct that endangered the community and contributed to the ongoing fentanyl crisis impacting West Virginia and communities nationwide. Fentanyl—a substance President Donald J. Trump has publicly described as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality—poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts.

Shoemaker faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

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.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Five people have entered guilty pleas to firearms charges in the Northern District of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Ricardo Xavier Jones, 46, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, pled guilty to the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. Jones was on parole when, during a probation home check, officers seized a shotgun and ammunition.  The firearm was concealed in the defendant’s mattress.  Jones is prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior grand larceny and drug convictions.

Gary Owen Jones, 54, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, pled guilty to the unlawful possession of a firearm. A West Virginia state probation officer seized a rifle from Jones’s home during a routine parole visit. Jones is prohibited from possessing firearms due a conviction for making terroristic threats in Berkeley County, as well as another firearms conviction.

Raymond Earl Bowers, III, 42, of Morgantown, West Virginia, pled guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm. Bowers’ former domestic partner advised the WVU Police Department that Bowers was a convicted felon with firearms and ammunition. Monongalia County Sheriff’s Deputies then secured a search warrant and searched Bowers’ van and home, which led to the seizure of three rifles, three pistols, a shotgun, and multiple rounds of ammunition. Bowers is prohibited because of prior domestic violence convictions.

Tyler Earl Mercer, 32, of Westover, West Virginia, pled guilty to the unlawful possession of a firearm. Officers responded to a call about suspicious activity in which people looking into vehicles with a flashlight in Monongalia County. After encountering Mercer, officers confirmed that he had an active warrant related to charges for grand larceny and an attempt to disarm a law enforcement officer. During his arrest, officers located a revolver in Mercer’s waistband. Mercer is prohibited from possessing firearms because of a prior counterfeiting conviction.

Caitlin Ashley Fox, 28, of Moorefield, West Virginia, pled guilty to making a false statement to a federal officer. Fox’s boyfriend was under investigation for firearms violations. Fox lied to federal agents on several occasions attempting to protect her boyfriend.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kyle Kane, Andrew Cogar, Zelda Wesley, and Stephen Warner are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.

Investigative agencies include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; the West Virginia University Police Department; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; and the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation Parole Services.

These cases are a part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Kearneysville, West Virginia man has admitted to possessing large quantities of controlled substances for distribution and a firearm in relation to that crime, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Bradley Allen Wilt, 44, pled guilty today to possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base. According to court documents and statements made in court, a traffic stop of Wilt’s vehicle led to the seizure of 63.51 grams of cocaine, 169.54 grams of cocaine base, 282 grams of suspected fentanyl, and 12 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride. Officers also seized a .45 caliber handgun from the car. Wilt pled guilty to possessing the firearm in relation to his drug crime.

Wilt faces at least five and up to 40 years in prison for the drug charge and faces at least 5 years and up to life for the firearms charge. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men have been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking in the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Gerald Lee Young, 58, of Wintersville, Ohio, was sentenced to 77 months in prison for possessing cocaine base. Young was stopped in his vehicle for traveling the wrong way on a one-way street in Weirton, West Virginia. Young admitted to the officer that there might be controlled substances in the car. A K9 was deployed, and the officer found 49 grams of cocaine base and $1114 in cash in Young’s vehicle. Two residences Young was associated with were later searched. Officers found nearly 2 grams of fentanyl, 1.3 grams of cocaine base and nearly 9 grams of methamphetamine, along with $1,918 in cash and a firearm. Young has prior drug convictions.

James Thomas Howard, 37, of Washington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 77 months for distributing methamphetamine. Howard, also known as “Jim Tom,” sold 32 grams of meth to someone in Marshall County. He has multiple prior drug convictions.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.

Investigative agencies include the Hancock Brooke Weirton Drug Task Force and the Marshall County Drug Task Force, each a HIDTA-funded initiative.

These cases are a part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Four men were sentenced this week for various firearms violations, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Tomez Faulkner, 39, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm. Faulkner was stopped on Interstate 70 in Ohio County for erratic driving. A 9mm pistol was in plain view inside the vehicle. The firearm had been stolen from Corapolis, Pennsylvania. Faulkner is prohibited from having firearms because of an aggravated assault conviction in Pennsylvania.

Steven Wayne Springer, 57, of Proctor, West Virginia, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. An off-duty officer observed Springer with a firearm and reported it to the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) because the Springer had a history of disregarding wildlife hunting regulations. A DNR officer, knowing Springer is prohibited from having firearms because of a prior felony drug conviction, visited with Springer, who admitted to having multiple firearms. Law enforcement later executed a search warrant at Springer’s home and seized two rifles, a shotgun, and 96 rounds of various ammunition.

Peter Alexander Ruskin, 52, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 18 months for the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The Marshall County Sheriff’s Department responded to a domestic violence call at Ruskin’s home. Ruskin was hiding in the basement. As officers searched for Ruskin, they found a firearm hidden under a couch in the residence. During a later legal search of his home, officers located multiple rounds of ammunition. Ruskin is prohibited because of prior domestic battery convictions.

Steven Wayne Tubby, 45, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison. Tubby was convicted of the unlawful possession of a firearm after he threatened someone with a firearm at his residence. Officers executed a search warrant at Tubby’s residence and found a firearm and ammunition. Tubby is prohibited because of two prior felonies involving assault with a dangerous weapon and wanton endangerment involving a firearm.

Investigative agencies include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; The West Virginia Department of Natural Resources; the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office; the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office; and the Moundsville Police Department.

These cases are part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

MARTINSBURG, WV  - In Fiscal Year 2025, the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit (ACE Unit) of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia (USAO NDWV) reached a major milestone by recovering over a quarter of a billion dollars in False Claims Act (FCA) and Controlled Substances Act (CSA) damages and civil penalties since the unit formed and actively began tracking this data in 2003.

The ACE Unit is responsible for civilly recovering damages resulting from government fraud, such as health care fraud, COVID-19 fraud, and contractor fraud. The ACE Unit also seeks civil penalties and administrative remedies against health care professionals engaged in the illegal diversion of controlled substances.

“Combatting fraud, waste, and abuse of government funds and preventing the illegal diversion of controlled substances, such as opioids, are among our top priorities,” said United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “Congratulations to the ACE Unit on reaching this milestone and be aware we intend to increase our efforts in the new year to continue to maximize these types of recoveries.”

The ACE Unit was able to reach the $250,000,000 threshold by collecting $5,324,902 in recoveries in Fiscal Year 2025.  In the largest civil settlement, four labor organizations agreed to pay a total of approximately $5.1 million dollars to settle allegations they violated the FCA by applying for and obtaining loans under the COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for which they knew or should have known they were ineligible.

Additionally in Fiscal Year 2025, the USAO NDWV recovered close to $1.5 million in restitution for crime victims and asset forfeiture actions. The office also obtained the forfeiture of firearms and other items of property involved in criminal offenses.

SHEPHERDSTOWN, WEST VIRGINIA – United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey has taken the formal oath of office in a special ceremony today at Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, West Virginia.

U.S. Attorney Harvey was nominated by President Donald J. Trump on June 30, 2025, and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on October 7, 2025. U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh administered the oath of office to U.S. Attorney Harvey and the Honorable Shelley Moore Capito, United States Senator, read the Presidential Proclamation before friends, family, and colleagues.

“I am grateful that President Trump has entrusted me to enforce the law, keep our communities safe, and stand with law enforcement,” said Harvey.

The Investiture Ceremony was attended by former United States Attorneys, Federal Judges, lawmakers, colleagues, staff, Harvey’s family, and friends. Messages of congratulations were shared by Senator Capito, the Honorable Riley Moore, United States Congressman, as well as video messages from the Honorable Jim Justice, United States Senator, and the Honorable Carol Miller, United States Congresswoman. Randall Reid-Smith, with Senator Justice’s office, sang the National Anthem. The Jefferson High School ROTC presented the colors at the ceremony and were invited as honored guests by U.S. Attorney Harvey. Shepherd University President Dr. Mary Hendrix and the Shepherd University Ram Marching Band also helped to celebrate the day. The ceremony was followed by a reception hosted by U.S. Attorney Harvey’s family.

As U.S. Attorney, Mr. Harvey oversees the prosecution of federal crimes including violent crime, narcotics trafficking, public corruption, financial fraud, and offenses impacting vulnerable populations. He also supervises civil litigation on behalf of the United States, defending federal agencies and advancing the government’s legal interests.

Mr. Harvey previously served as the Prosecuting Attorney for Jefferson County, having been elected to three terms, after having served as an Assistant Prosecutor in both Berkeley and Kanawha Counties. Mr. Harvey has an extensive career within the criminal justice system. Prior to his time as the elected Prosecutor for Jefferson County, he spent six years in private practice.

From 2021 to 2022, Mr. Harvey served as president of the West Virginia Association of Counties and has been active in many civic organizations. The most rewarding of which came in 2023, when Mr. Harvey was appointed by then governor, James C. Justice to serve on the board of the West Virginia First Foundation. The Foundation was created to receive and disburse Opioid Funds from the state’s litigation against drug manufacturers and distributors, which are used to fund programs and services that promote the health and safety of West Virginians. Mr. Harvey was selected by the Foundation’s board to serve as its first chairman, where he continued to serve until his confirmation by the United States Senate.

A graduate of Bluefield State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration, he went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from the Appalachian School of Law.

Mr. Harvey is a proud native of Monroe County and currently resides in Shepherdstown.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Hetzon Marroquin Reyes, owner and operator of A&M Homes, LLC, in Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months in federal prison for employing illegal aliens and tax fraud, United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced.

Reyes, also known as “Hector,” age 41, hired and harbored illegal workers for his construction company. Reyes, a Guatemalan resident, in the United States on a temporary visa himself, created fraudulent documentation for the illegal workers to provide to the West Virginia Division of Labor inspectors and fraudulently used others’ social security numbers for the aliens’ tax paperwork.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, and the Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided. 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Robinson-Brown, 27, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 150 months in federal prison for his leadership role in a drug trafficking operation in Monongalia County, announced United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement had received several complaints about suspected drug activity at an apartment complex in Morgantown. Investigators determined Robinson-Brown was transporting large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl from Detroit to Monongalia County, using local residents to then distribute the narcotics.

Robinson-Brown has a criminal history that includes convictions for cocaine and heroin distribution and the unlawful possession of a firearm.

Robinson-Brown will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Terrance Bradley, 27, of Willoughby Hills, Ohio, was sentenced to 92 months in prison for fentanyl and methamphetamine trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Bradley, also known as “Blade,” was selling counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine in Ohio County, WV. Bradley has a criminal history that includes felonious assault and drug possession.

Bradley will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided. 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Filmel Williams, 64, of Harper Woods, Michigan, has admitted to illegally distributing fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

According to court documents, Williams distributed fentanyl in Lumberport, West Virginia.

Williams faces up to 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar 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.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Lee Lemasters, 62, of Paden City, West Virginia, was sentenced to 41 months in prison for the possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement received a tip that Lemasters had child pornography on his cell phone. A search of Lemasters’ phone uncovered hundreds of images and videos depicting children in sexual situations.

Lemasters will serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Probation Office investigated.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided. 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Deontre Christian Johnson, age 25, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 48 months in prison for fentanyl distribution, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

According to court documents, Johnson, also known as “Trap,” was selling fentanyl on Wheeling Island.

Johnson will serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid 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.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – James Adam Vipperman, age 38, of Cameron, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 79 months in federal prison methamphetamine trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Vipperman worked with others to sell methamphetamine in Marshall County, WV.

Vipperman will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

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

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Lawrence James Reagan, 40, of Weirton, West Virginia, was sentenced to 78 months in prison for methamphetamine distribution, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Reagan was selling methamphetamine in Hancock County, West Virginia. Investigators seized methamphetamine which he intended to distribute inside Reagan’s home during the execution of a search warrant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Hancock Brooke Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Nicholas Esteves Spencer, age 42, of Littleton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months in federal prison for failing to update his sex offender registration, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. 

According to court documents, Spencer has a lifetime sex offender registration requirement because of an indecent assault of a minor conviction in Massachusetts in 2005. Spencer was living in Wetzel County but didn’t register as a sex offender with the West Virginia State Police.

Spencer will serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The United States Marshals Service, West Virginia State Police, the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office, and the Granville Police Department investigated.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Stephen J. Booker, 32, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison for methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking and a firearms violation, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Booker, also known as “Flock,” pled guilty in February 2025 to five counts. According to statements made in court, Booker sold methamphetamine and fentanyl in Warwood, WV, and on Wheeling Island. During one of the sales, Booker displayed a firearm. The firearm was privately made, also known as a “ghost gun.”  Addition to the firearm, Booker possessed 47 rounds of ammunition.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the West Virginia State Police investigated.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Ashley W. Grubb, 45, of Westover, West Virginia, has admitted to making a false statement in connection with the acquisition of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

According to court documents, Grubb made false statements at a firearms dealer in Morgantown, West Virginia, stating the firearm was for his personal use, but, in fact, he was buying the firearms for another defendant who is prohibited from possessing firearms because of drug use.

Grubb faces up to 10 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Will Rhee 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.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles Delroy Singletary, 45, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison for his involvement in a drug trafficking organization that sold substantial amounts of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

The indictment, returned in January 2024 charged 82 defendants, including Gary Brown, Jr., for their roles in the operation. According to statements made in court, Singletary was one of the workers for the operation, ensuring drug customers were receiving their controlled substances. Singletary was a fugitive for 18 months following the initial indictment and used using multiple aliases during his fugitive status.

All 82 defendants have been convicted and 81 defendants, including Singletary, have been sentenced. Brown, Jr. was sentenced to 327 months in federal prison in May 2025.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher and Kyle Kane prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.

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

Investigative agencies include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Pittsburgh Field Division and Baltimore Field Division); the Drug Enforcement Administration; the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations; the United States Postal Inspection Service; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the United States Marshals Service;  the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office; the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office; Ranson Police Department; Martinsburg Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; Stafford County Sheriff's Office (Virginia); Frederick County Sheriff's Office (Maryland); Frederick County Sheriff's Office (Virginia); Winchester Police Department; and the Clarke County Sheriff's Office (Virginia).

This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

Find the original case press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/investigators-dismantle-fentanyl-drug-trafficking-network-eastern-panhandle

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Three people have been sentenced this week for drug trafficking in North Central West Virginia, United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced.

Jacob Wilson, 29, of Beverly, West Virginia, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison for distributing more than five grams of methamphetamine. Wilson was selling methamphetamine from his home.

Lawrence Lower, 36, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 14 months for methamphetamine distribution. Lower was selling methamphetamine in Grant County, West Virginia.

Michael Wayne Miller, 55, of Wardensville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for selling methamphetamine in Hardy County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.

Investigative agencies include the Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christina Nolte, 42, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, has admitted to the theft of public money, United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced. 

According to filed documents and statements made in court, Nolte falsified medical records to receive disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Nolte fraudulently used her disability to have her federal student loans in the amount of $242,528 discharged.

As a part of the plea agreement, Nolte has agreed to the forfeiture and a money judgement in amount of $360,466.38.

Nolte faces up to 10 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer T. Conklin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government, and the matter was investigated by the Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General and the Department of Education.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph William Alfred, also known as “Chris,” age 51, was sentenced to 132 months in federal prison for methamphetamine and firearms charges, United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced.

Following a trial in July 2025, a jury found Alfred guilty of the distribution of five grams or more of methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a firearm, and failure to appear.

A package shipped from an address in California containing more than two pounds of methamphetamine was intercepted by the United States Postal Service postmarked for Alfred’s address. A subsequent search warrant executed at Alfred’s home resulted in the seizure of more controlled substances, a firearm, ammunition, $2,156, and drug paraphernalia. Alfred is prohibited from having firearms because of a prior felony drug conviction.

Alfred also violated his pre-trial release while on home confinement with electronic monitoring. He failed to appear for a pretrial conference in April 2024 in federal district court.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clayton Reid and Carly Nogay prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

This case was investigated by the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the United States Postal Service.

U.S. District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey is applauding the work of his office during the government shutdown in the Northern District of West Virginia.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners continued the important work of Operation Take Back America, removing drug dealers, firearms offenders, and those who commit crimes against children, from our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Harvey.

During the 43-day lapse in government appropriations, the U.S. Attorney’s Office facilitated more than 70 sentences, secured dozens of guilty pleas, indicted 17 matters, and successfully litigated a trial.

Notable sentences involving drug trafficking include:

• Desmond Davis, 35, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 327 months in federal prison.
• Lenin Erasmo Luna Mota, 53, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced to 280 months.
• Malik Summers, 51, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 240 months.
• Odell Epps, 48, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 130 months in prison.
• Frank Brown, 36, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 120 months in prison.
• Gary Duane Cool, 41, of Monterville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 188 months.
• Emmanuel Gibson, 34, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced to 151 months in prison.
• Theresa Lipkey, 44, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 84 months in prison.
• Corey Coffman Kneeland, 35, of Wardensville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 121 months.
• Jennifer Ann Howell, 46, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced to 90 months.
• Matthew David Viands, 33, of Summit Point, West Virginia, was sentenced to 78 months.
• Mauricio Alvarado-Flores, 39, of El Salvador, was sentenced to 71 months in prison.
• Alexis Alvarado, 38, of Ranson, West Virginia, was sentenced to 60 months.
• Rahim Duncan, 31, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison.
• Crystal Lynn Blakenship, 40, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced to 97 months.
• Randy Jones, 42, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 136 months in prison.
• Kimberly Goins, 44, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 78 months.
• Rebecca Keiper, 38, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 78 months in prison.

Prison sentences were secured for those violating firearms laws, to include:

• Bryan Davis, 39, of Williamsport, Maryland, was sentenced to 188 months in prison.
• Alexander Dignazio, 23, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison.
• Garrett Deberry, 28, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced to 160 months in prison.

The office also secured sentences for those who violated child pornography laws:

• Oliver Matheny, age 51, of Maidsville, West Virginia, was sentenced to 300 months in prison.
• David Cicalese, 44, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced to 120 months.
• Joshua Michael Humphrey, 43, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced to 88 months in prison.
• Elliot Stache, 37, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison.

The sentences were presided by Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh, U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh, and U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey.

The cases were a part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Proctor, West Virginia man was convicted today of two firearms charges after investigators discovered he was in possession of 15 guns and more than 3,500 rounds of ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

Gary Dean Siburt, 62, was found guilty of the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition due a prior felony conviction and a prior domestic violence conviction. The jury heard evidence of Siburt’s prior convictions, prohibiting him from possessing firearms. During the investigation, guns and ammunition were seized from Siburt’s home.

Siburt is facing up to 15 years for each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Perri and Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

Investigative agencies include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Brady McKinley, 46, of Adena, Ohio, has admitted to conspiring with others to distribute illegal drugs in the upper Ohio Valley.

According to court documents and statements made in court, McKinley worked with others to sell large quantities of fentanyl and cocaine in Ohio County and elsewhere.

McKinley faces up to 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, Marshall County Drug Task Force, and the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, all HIDTA-funded initiatives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; West Virginia State Police; Wheeling Police Department; Ohio County Sheriff’s Office; and the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jwan Martine Smith, 40, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has admitted to being part of a conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

According to court documents, Smith worked with others to sell large quantities of fentanyl in Berkeley County, WV. 

Smith faces at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

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.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Wheeling attorney was convicted today of fraud and money laundering for fraudulently handling client funds and using client funds to conduct unlawful monetary transactions, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

A federal jury found Paul J. Harris, 62, of Wheeling, guilty of 29 counts today. The jury heard testimony that Harris used client funds for personal expenses, such as the purchase of his home and paying for his law office, without the clients’ permission. Harris received and moved funds from his client trust account to his law firm operating account, at times using one client’s money to pay funds he had misappropriated from other clients.

“Attorneys are meant to relieve clients of their stressors. Mr. Harris preyed on vulnerable clients who trusted him with their money and legal matters, betraying that trust through unethical acts. I commend the jury for their verdict and for delivering justice to the victims,” said U.S. Attorney Harvey.

The government is seeking a monetary judgement, restitution for the victims, as well as the forfeiture of the property of Harris Law Offices in Wheeling.

Harris faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each of the mail and wire fraud counts and up to 10 years in prison for each of the unlawful monetary transaction counts.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Jennifer T. Conklin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government, and the matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.