Northern District of West Virginia

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Sylvester Deangelo Walker, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 100 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Walker, also known as “DBOS,” 25, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Walker admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 2020 in Ohio County.

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.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Anthony Toler, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 46 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Toler, age 35, pled guilty in January 2021 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Toler admitted to having cocaine case, also known as “crack,” in Ohio County in February 2020.

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

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Sheri K. Green, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day of incarceration for a methamphetamine charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Green, 56, pled guilty in February 2021 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Green admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine from August 2019 to August 2020 in Marshall County and elsewhere. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Clay Westbrook, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 151 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Westbrook, age 39, pled guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Westbrook admitted to having methamphetamine in December 2019 in Monongalia County. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Stephanie Cottrill, of Shinnston, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 77 months of incarceration for methamphetamine and heroin distribution, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
 
Cottrill, age 38, pleaded guilty in September 2020 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Methamphetamine and Heroin.” Cottrill admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine and heroin from November 2019 to January 2020 in Ritchie County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ritchie County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles Jackson, of Winchester, Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months of incarceration for his role in a drug distribution operation, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
 
Jackson, 53, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Eutylone and Cocaine Base.” Jackson admitted to working with others to distribute eutylone and cocaine base from October 2019 to April 2020 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.

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

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 Gina M. Groh presided.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Lamont Brinkley, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced to 58 months of incarceration for distributing fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Brinkley, age 34, pleaded guilty in October 2019 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Brinkley was found in a motel in Spring Mills, West Virginia, in November 2018 with 30 grams of fentanyl, 39 grams of a synthetic opiate known as U47700, and a cutting agent, as well as digital scales and plastic baggies. The amount of fentanyl seized was enough to kill more than 10,000 people. Other drugs were also found in the room, along with $9,600 in cash.

These charges are 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.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy D. Helman and 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; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; the Martinsburg Police Department; the Charles Town Police Department; and the Ranson Police Department investigated. The United States Marshals assisted.
 
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

Find the original case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/33-indicted-heroin-cocaine-and-fentanyl-distribution-operation-berkeley-and-jefferson
 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Barbara Jean Feltner, of Martinsburg West Virginia, was sentenced today to 10 months of incarceration for her role in a drug distribution enterprise, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
 
Feltner, 32, pleaded guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin and Fentanyl.” Feltner admitted to working with others to sell heroin and fentanyl in February 2020 in Berkeley County.

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

These charges are 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 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 Gina M. Groh presided.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brandon Cody Sabol, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal Grand Jury in May 2021 on child pornography charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Sabol, 32, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Child Pornography” and one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Sabol is accused of distributing child pornography in May 2020 in Berkeley County. He is also accused of having an image of child pornography containing a child under the age of 12 in October 2020 in Berkeley County.

Sabol faces at least five years and up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the distribution charge. He faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the possession charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley L. Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Garry William Moran, II, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, has admitted to drug and counterfeit charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Moran, 41, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possession of Counterfeit Obligations.” Moran admitted to having methamphetamine to sell from January to May 2019 in Upshur County and elsewhere. Moran also admitted to having $1,100 in counterfeit bills in May 2019 in Upshur County. 
 
Moran faces up to 20 years of incarceration and fine of up to $1,000,000 for the drug charge and faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the counterfeit charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Lakes Drug Task Force and the U.S. Secret Service investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Theodore Richardson, of Martinsburg, west Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months of incarceration for his role in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Richardson, also known as “JR,” age 57, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Fentanyl and Cocaine.” Richardson admitted to selling cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” and fentanyl in June 2019 in Berkeley 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. 

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 and Violent Crimes 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
 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeffrey Allen Johnson, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to one year of home confinement and a lifetime of supervision for having child pornography, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Johnson, age 51, pleaded guilty in February 2020 to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Johnson admitted to having more than 600 images of child pornography in May 2019 in Berkeley County.

Johnson was also ordered to pay $10,000 in assessments toward a victim assistance fund.

This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley D. Crockett prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Alcendor, of Houston, Texas, has admitted to his role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Alcendor, age 20, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances,” one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.”  Alcendor admitted to working with others to distribute methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin from the spring of 2018 to October 2020 in Monongalia County and elsewhere. 

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

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

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

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dallas Edward Weber, Jr. has admitted to a child pornography charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Weber, 40, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Production of Child Pornography.” Weber is accused of using a minor child to engage in sexually explicit conduct and producing child pornography from that conduct in June 2020 in Taylor County.

Weber is facing at least 15 and up to 30 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 Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Taylor County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Mark Joseph Dobrzynski, of Valley Grove, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Dobrzynski, 58, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Dobrzynski admitted to having methamphetamine in November 2020 in Ohio County.

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

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

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

ARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Lisa Richardson, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months of incarceration for her role in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Richardson, 50, pleaded guilty in October 2020 to one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl and Heroin.” Richardson admitted to selling heroin and fentanyl in June 2019 in Berkeley County.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. 

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 and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 
 
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Qundre Isaiah Payton, of Institute, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 days of incarceration for a firearms charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Payton, 24, pleaded guilty in February 2020 to one count of “False Statement During Purchase of Firearms.” Payton admitted to making a false statement when purchasing three 9mm pistols at a firearms dealer in Berkeley County in December 2019. 

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

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Clint Monroe Utter, of West Milford, West Virginia, has admitted to the robbery of Summit Community Bank in November 2020, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Utter, 43, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Bank Robbery” and one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.” Utter admitted to robbing the Summit Community Bank in Salem, West Virginia, of $69,100 on November 17, 2020 and then attempting to conceal the proceeds from the bank robbery by directing the purchase of prepaid cards.

Utter faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the bank robbery charge. Utter faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $500,000 for the money laundering charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Walter Lee Evans, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 131 months of incarceration for a drug distribution charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Evans, age 48, pleaded guilty in February 2020 to one count of “Possess with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Evans admitted to having heroin in April 2019 in Berkeley County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Martinsburg Police Department investigated. 

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dustin Bruce Moran, of Parsons, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 210 months of incarceration for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Moran, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Moran admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in April 2018 in Randolph County.

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

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nikoma L. Knight, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 132 months of incarceration for her involvement in distributing drugs, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Knight, age 25, pleaded guilty in January 2019 to one count of “Conspiracy with Intent to Distribute Greater than 500 grams of Methamphetamine” and one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.”  She admitted to working with another to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine and using a phone to distribute methamphetamine in June 2018 in Monongalia County. During a search at her residence, officers found approximately 10 pounds of methamphetamine, a half pound of heroin, $57,442 in cash, and twelve firearms.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Alan Gill, of Salem, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in the robbery of Summit Community Bank in November 2020, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Gill, 61, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Accessory After the Fact – Bank Robbery.” Gill admitted to helping Clint Monroe Utter evade authorities. Utter is accused of robbing the Summit Community Bank in Salem, West Virginia, of $69,100 on November 17, 2020. (https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/harrison-county-man-indicted-bank-robbery)

Gill is facing up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $125,000. 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 FBI and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher M. Vickers, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to carjacking and firearms charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Vickers, 31, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Carjacking,” and one count of “Use of Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.”
 
According to court documents, on June 3, 2020, Vickers drove to a residence in Shinnston, West Virginia to take a motorcycle.  Vickers admitted to grabbing a woman by her hair and holding a gun to her head, demanding the location of the motorcycle. Vickers admitted to attempting to take the motorcycle from the property. 

Vickers faces up to 15 years of incarceration and fine of up to $250,000 for the carjacking charge and faces no less than seven years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearm use. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Matthew Logan Lipscomb, of Kerens, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 76 months of incarceration for drug charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Lipscomb, 30, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in November 2019. Lipscomb admitted to selling methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” and “ice,” for $650 in April 2019 in Randolph County.

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

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – David Changhyub Lee, of Raleigh, North Carolina, was sentenced today to one year probation and a fine of $4,250 for aiding and abetting the illegal transportation of ginseng across state lines, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Lee, 35, pled guilty to one count of “Interstate Transportation of Ginseng in Violation of State Law – Aiding and Abetting” in December 2020. Lee admitted to facilitating and purchasing nearly 15 pounds of ginseng for a total of $4250 from Randolph County and elsewhere and transported it to North Carolina.

This case was in violation of the federal Lacey Act (16 USC § 3371 et seq.), which prohibits the taking and interstate trafficking of protected plants and animals in violation of state law.  Under 16 USC § 3373, it's a felony if the plant's market value exceeds $350.00.  West Virginia's ginseng statute (WV Code 19-1A-3a) has various requirements for the ginseng market.  One requirement is that ginseng not be transported to another state absent a certificate of origin from the West Virginia Division of Forestry.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the West Virginia Natural Resources Police investigated.

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Lawrence Allen Keplinger, of Lahmansville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 136 months incarceration for methamphetamine distribution, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Keplinger, 39, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” involving more than 50 grams of “crystal meth” or “ice.” Keplinger admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in March 2019 in Grant County. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Caleb Haggerty, of Petersburg, West Virginia, plead guilty to a drug distribution charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Haggerty, 36, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Haggerty admitted to distributing the methamphetamine in March 2020.

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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.

This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.        

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Travis E. Vossen, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was indicted today on drug charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Vossen, 31, was indicted today on two counts of “Distribution of Fentanyl within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” Vossen is accused of distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine near Ritchie Elementary School in April and May 2021 in Ohio County.

Vossen faces at least one and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Mitchell R. Arbogast, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was indicted today on a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Arbogast, 59, was indicted today on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Arbogast, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, is accused of having a double-barrel 20-gauge Chinese shotgun, a 12-gauge shotgun, a 6-shot .22 caliber revolver, and a .380 semi-automatic pistol in March 2021 in Marshall County. 

Arbogast 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 and the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Mark Justin Daniels, an inmate at Federal Corrections Institute Hazelton in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, was indicted today on assault and weapons charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Daniels, 35, was indicted on one count of “Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm” and one count of “Possession of a Prohibited Object (Weapon).” Daniels is accused of using a combination lock in a sock to assault another inmate in January 2021 in Preston County.  

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

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

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Doriawn Eduane-Draphel Rogers, of Detroit, Michigan, appeared in federal court today after being charged with 10 others in a drug conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Eleven people were indicted in April 2021 and charged with an alleged drug conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl from December 2019 to August 2020 in Marion County and elsewhere. Those charged are:

•    Kevin Lawrence Jarrett, also known as “Six,” 30, of Detroit, Michigan
•    Lamarr Devaughn Charleston, 43, of Detroit, Michigan
•    Derek David Henderson, 41, of Detroit, Michigan
•    Mariah Yaray Barber, 33, of Detroit, Michigan
•    Justin Paul Thompson, 37, of Fairmont, West Virginia
•    Shawn Harper Warren, also known as “S.J.,” 23, of Detroit, Michigan
•    Leroy Raymund Charleston, 38, of Detroit, Michigan
•    Kaemon Bernard-Donyell King, also known as “Twin,” 19, of Detroit, Michigan
•    William D. Charleston, also known as “Jay,” 41, of Detroit, Michigan
•    Doriawn Eduane-Draphel Rogers, 20, of Detroit, Michigan
•    Nathaniel Lee Williams, also known as “Sticks,” 63, of Fairmont, West Virginia

They are accused of distributing the controlled substances, sometimes near public housing, schools, and parks.

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

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Rodney Allen Rowan, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 151 months of incarceration for a methamphetamine charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Rowan, 26, pleaded guilty in January 2020 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute at Least 50 Grams of Methamphetamine.” Rowan admitted to having more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in November 2019 in Upshur County. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, West Virginia State Police, and the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Edward Denkenberger, Jr., of Shinnston, West Virginia, and James Lee Audia, II, of Reynoldsville, have admitted today to drug charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Denkenberger, 35, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute of Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” He admitted to having 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in October 2019 in Harrison County.

Audia, 51, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Five Grams or More of Methamphetamine.” Audia admitted to selling five grams or more of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal” and “ice,” in November 2019 in Harrison County. 

Denkenberger faces at least 10 years and up to life incarceration and fine of up to $10,000,000. Audia 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Blaine Allen Ash, of Bristol, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in the robbery of Summit Community Bank in November 2020, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Ash, 37, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Accessory After the Fact – Bank Robbery.” Ash admitted to assisting Clinton Monroe Utter with concealing his involvement in the robbery of the bank. Utter is accused of robbing the Summit Community Bank in Salem, West Virginia, of $69,100 on November 17, 2020. (https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/harrison-county-man-indicted-bank-robbery)

Ash is facing up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $125,000. 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 Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
 

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Jay Jay William Hedrick, of Petersburg West Virginia, was sentenced today to 25 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Hedrick, age 44, pleaded guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Hedrick, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of prior felony convictions, admitted to having a .40 caliber pistol, a 9mm pistol, and a .17 caliber rifle in June 2020 in Grant County.

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

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Aaron Roy, of Maysville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to a total of 120 months of incarceration for firearms and drug charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Roy, 36, pled guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Roy, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of prior convictions, is also accused of having a .380 caliber pistol in January 2020 in Grant County.

In a separate case, Roy pleaded guilty in December 2020 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute at Least Forty Grams of Fentanyl—Aiding and Abetting.” Roy admitted to working with others to distribute as least 40 grams of fentanyl in January 2020 in Hardy County. A fatal dose of fentanyl is between two and three milligrams. 

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

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brandon J. Martino, of Wadestown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years of probation for his role in a firearms conspiracy, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Martino, age 26, pled guilty in January 2021 to one count of “False Statement During Attempted Purchase of Firearm.” Martino admitted to falsifying documents to illegally purchase a 9mm pistol in May 2018 in Monongalia County.

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

Chief U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph Garth, of Bellaire, Ohio, was sentenced today to 15 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Garth, also known as “Nephew,” 24, pled guilty in February 2021 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Garth admitted to selling cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in May 2020 in Ohio County. 

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, which includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department, investigated. The U.S. Marshal Service, Columbus Police Department Gang Crimes Unit, the Martins Ferry Police Department, and the Bellaire Police Department also assisted.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

Original case indictment here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/26-charged-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-crack-cocaine-and-meth-wheeling

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Meadows, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Meadows, 49, was sentenced to two years of probation, with the first eight months in home confinement. Meadows pleaded guilty in October 2020 to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” Meadows admitted to using a to distribute drugs in March 2020 in Monongalia County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. 

Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.

Related press release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/seventeen-people-charged-heroin-and-crack-cocaine-distribution-operation
 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Soloman Banish, Jr., of West Milford, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 51 months of incarceration for firearms and drug charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Banish, 25, pled guilty in November 2020 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Banish, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction, had a 9mm pistol and a .380 caliber pistol in April 2020 in Harrison County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and West Virginia State Police investigated.

Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Larry Cuffman, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, was sentenced today to 10 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Cuffman, also known as “Pops,” age 60, pled guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Cuffman admitted to selling cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in June 2020 in Ohio County.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, which includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department, investigated. The U.S. Marshal Service, Columbus Police Department Gang Crimes Unit, the Martins Ferry Police Department, and the Bellaire Police Department also assisted.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

Original case indictment here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/26-charged-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-crack-cocaine-and-meth-wheeling
 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Erick Lamont Stanback Singleton, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 41 months of incarceration for a drug charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Singleton, also known as “Gotti,” age 26, pled guilty in January 2021 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Singleton admitted to selling heroin near Madison Elementary School on Wheeling Island in February 2020.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, which includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department, investigated. The U.S. Marshal Service, Columbus Police Department Gang Crimes Unit, the Martins Ferry Police Department, and the Bellaire Police Department also assisted.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

Find related press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/26-charged-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-crack-cocaine-and-meth-wheeling
 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Donald Mark Tillotson, of Burlington, West Virginia, was indicted today on firearms charges, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Tillotson, 24, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” “Possession of Stolen Firearm,” and one count of “Possession of Firearm with Obliterated Serial Number.” Tillotson, a person prohibited from having a firearm, is accused of having a .40 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number, believed to be stolen, in January 2021 in Mineral County.

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

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

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Patrick Allen Darlington, of Charles Town, West Virginia, was indicted today on a failure to register charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Darlington, 42, was indicted on one count of “Failure to Register.” Darlington, a person required to register as a sex offender because of a prior conviction, is accused of traveling across state lines without updating his sex offender registration from August 2020 to March 2021 in Jefferson County and elsewhere.

Darlington 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 U.S. Marshals Service investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Quadiri Ayodele, an inmate at FCI Gilmer in Glenville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to six months of additional prison time after admitting to a contraband charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Ayodele, 41, pleaded guilty to one count of “Attempt to Introduce a Prohibited Object (Tobacco).” Ayodele admitted to trying to bring in tobacco to the prison in April 2019 in Gilmer County.

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

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Porter Critchfield, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Critchfield, 34, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” Critchfield, a person prohibited from having a firearm, admitted to having a 9mm pistol in February 2016 in Harrison County.

Critchfield 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 Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Bridgeport Police Department investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Roderick Bradley, of Houston, Texas, has admitted to his role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Bradley, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Bradley admitted to working with another to sell cocaine base, known as ‘crack,” in Monongalia County in June 2020.

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

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

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

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

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

LKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin Wayne Fultz, of Maysville, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a methamphetamine and fentanyl distribution operation, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Fultz, 32, pled guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute of Fentanyl.” Fultz admitted to having fentanyl in Grant County in January 2020.

Fultz is facing 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 & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Bobbi Jo Starry, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months of incarceration for a sex offender registry charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Starry, 55, pleaded guilty in April 2021 to one count of “Failure to Register.” Starry, who is required to register as a sex offender, admitted to failing to update her registry from January to August 2020 in the Northern District of West Virginia and elsewhere. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Marshals Service investigated.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Alexander Cleveland King, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months of incarceration for a firearms charge, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

King, also known as “Alex,” 35, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm.” King, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of a conviction, admitted to having .45 caliber pistol in January 2021 in Wetzel County.

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

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.