Northern District of West Virginia

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Clinton Jean-Pierre, of Miami, Florida, has admitted to identity theft through use of a computer, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Jean-Pierre, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Accessing a Computer and Obtaining Information” and one count of “Aggravated Identity Theft.”  Jean-Pierre admitted to fraudulently accessing the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) eAuthentication online taxpayer system, which has servers located in Berkeley County, in December 2017.  In order to pass IRS security protocols, Jean-Pierre admitted that he fraudulently “ported” an unknowing person’s cellular telephone number to his own phone in order to obtain the security code necessary to create an unauthorized taxpayer account.  Once in the IRS eAuthentication system, Jean-Pierre admitted he gained access to a taxpayer’s tax return information which included the taxpayer’s personal identifying information. 

Jean-Pierre faces a mandatory two years incarceration for the identity theft count, and up to five additional years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the accessing a computer 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 Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration Cybercrime Investigations Division investigated. 

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - Kelvin L. Potter, of Dover, New Hampshire, was sentenced today to 40 hours in U.S. Marshal custody and five years of supervised release for bank fraud, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Potter, age 38, pled guilty to one count of “Bank Fraud” in September 2017. Potter admitted to transferring money from an account at Chase Bank belonging to Velco, Inc., which holds the business account of Vocelli Pizza in Wheeling, without authorization. The crime occurred in May 2015.

The judge ordered a money judgment of $45,000. Potter was also ordered to pay restitution in the amounts of $1,598.76 to Velco Inc. and $68,399.73 to JP Morgan Chase Bank.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated. 

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Earnest Parrie Dille, of Morgantown, West Virginia, ahas admitted to failing to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Dille, age 63, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration.” Dille, a person required to register as a sex offender, is accused of traveling from Idaho to West Virginia without updating his sex offender registration from January 2018 to April 2019.

Dille faces up to 10 years 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.

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 Sarah E. Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service investigated. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Marsawn Daggins, of Southfield, Michigan, was sentenced today to eight months incarceration for her involvement in a heroin, oxycodone, and cocaine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Daggins, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” Daggins admitted to using a phone to further a drug distribution operation in April 2018 in Monongalia County. 

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

The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Kenneth R. Beckner, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 92 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Beckner, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances” in June 2019. Beckner admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Marshall County and elsewhere from July 2018 to January 2019. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brandon Mays, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Mays, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Mays admitted to distributing methamphetamine in October 2017 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 Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Cody Boley, of Wallace, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 51 months incarceration for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Boley, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in April 2019. Boley, being a person prohibited from possessing a firearm, admitted to having a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol in May 2018 in Lewis 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 Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Leon Sullivan, of Steubenville, Ohio, has admitted to a cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Sullivan, age 55, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride, Cocaine Base, Heroin, and Fentanyl.” Sullivan admitted to working with others to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin and fentanyl in Hancock County and elsewhere from February 2018 to August 2019.

Sullivan faces up to 20 years 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 Danae DeMasi-Lemon and Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Jefferson County, Ohio, Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force; the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office; the Brooke County Sheriff’s Office; the Weirton Police Department; and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Police investigated. 

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – David E. Beazel, of Triadelphia, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Beazel, age 49, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Beazel, a person prohibited from having a firearm, admitted to having three rifles, a shotgun, a pistol and a revolver in June 2017 in Ohio County.

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

Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Teisha Primm, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to her involvement in a cocaine and heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Primm, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting in the Distribution of Heroin within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Primm admitted to selling heroin near West Virginia University in July 2018 in Monongalia County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Byron Higginbotham, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 14 months incarceration for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Higginbotham, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Unregistered Firearm” in March 2019. Higginbotham admitted to having an unregistered .20 caliber sawed-off shotgun in March 2018 in Harrison 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 Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The United States Marshal Service assisted.

The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeremiah Lee Carr, of Glenville, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in  methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Carr, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Carr admitted to selling methamphetamine near Glenville State College in September 2018 in Gilmer County.

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

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

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Herman Lee Brown, Jr., of Inwood, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Brown, age 51, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Brown, a person prohibited from having a firearm, admitted to having a .380 caliber pistol in July 2018 in Berkeley County.

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

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

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin David Peters, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 18 months incarceration for failing to update his sex offender registry, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Peters, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Register” in April 2019. Peters, having previously been convicted of possession of child pornography in Berkeley County Circuit Court, admitted to traveling to Florida without updating his sex offender registration as required by law. The crime occurred from June to September 2018.

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 Jeffrey A. Finucane prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Gypsy Rene Winkler, of Keyser, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 10 months incarceration for her involvement in a drug distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Winkler, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in June 2019. Winkler admitted to distributing methamphetamine fin March 2018 in Hampshire County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, The West Virginia State Police, and the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated. 

The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Dwayne Cosner, of Elk Garden, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 15 months incarceration for drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Cosner, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in April 2019. Cosner admitted to distributing methamphetamine in March 2018 in Mineral County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated. 

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nicholas J. Mathis, of Warren, Michigan, was sentenced today to 195 months incarceration for drug distribution and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Mathis, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess With the Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession With the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession With the Intent to Distribute Heroin within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession With the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime” in May 2019. 

Mathis admitted to conspiring with others to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl, sometimes near West Fairmont Middle School, in Marion County and elsewhere from the fall of 2018 to January 2019. He also admitted to having a .45 caliber pistol, a 9mm pistol and a .22 caliber rifle during the crimes.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Three Rivers Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Desmon Johnson, of Parkville, Maryland, was sentenced today to 78 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Johnson, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in April 2019. Johnson, having previously been convicted of a felony, admitted to having five firearms in his possession in September 2016 in Preston County.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Preston County Sheriff's Office investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –Samantha J. Simmons, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration for methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Simmons, age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Simmons admitted to selling methamphetamine in June 2018 in Marshall County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cody Swick, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 25 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Swick, age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in April 2019. Swick, having been previously convicted of domestic battery, admitted to having a .22 caliber revolver in October 2018 in Grant County.
 
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Grant County Sheriff’s Department investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher Lee Yates, a former contract security guard at a U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) facility, was sentenced today to 168 months incarceration for stealing firearms from the government, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

“The theft and illegal distribution of firearms presents a clear and present danger to the public.  The defendant’s conduct was not only audacious, it was and remains extraordinarily dangerous.  The court’s sentence sends a clear and unequivocal message.  Importantly, many of the stolen items remain unrecovered, and we encourage the public across the country to report any material information to the ATF or other law enforcement agencies,” said Powell.  
 
Yates, age 52, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearm” and one count of “Theft of Government Property” in April 2019. Yates was a contract employee at the ATF’s National Disposal Branch in Martinsburg, West Virginia. From 2016 to early 2019, Yates stole thousands of firearms, firearms parts, and ammunition. Yates sold much of the property to others across the country. The crimes caused ATF to issue more than 1200 referrals across all 25 ATF field divisions in 49 of the 50 states, District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. To date, ATF has recovered 4,625 pieces of the stolen firearms and parts, including 4,000 firearms parts, 3,000 of which of were slides, and at least 15 rifles, 80 handguns, including ATF duty weapons, 10 to 15 AR-style lower receivers, and four machine guns.

ATF Special Agent in Charge Ashan Benedict commented, “Mr. Yates was in a position of trust and his egregious behavior not only betrayed his coworkers at the destruction facility, but put the public at risk in exchange for his financial gain.  Insiders can pose a significant threat to any organization and ATF is no exception. We urge the public to come forward with information leading to the recovery of any additional items he stole.” 

The judge also ordered a money judgment in the amount of $300,000.

Yates was taken into custody immediately following the hearing. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey A. Finucane prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

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

Anyone with information regarding the location of these firearms, firearms parts, ammunition and/or persons who unknowingly purchased one or more of these items should contact ATF at 1-888-ATF-TIPS, email ATFTips@atf.gov; through its website at www.atf.gov/contact/atf-tips; or through the ReportIt ® app, www.reportit.com, available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store.
 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Herman Terrell Govan, of Inwood, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 151 months incarceration for selling fentanyl, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

“Fentanyl continues to kill people across the country.  The defendant has learned that bringing it into Berkeley County has significant consequences,” said Powell.

Govan, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl” in April 2019. Govan admitted to selling fentanyl in January 2018 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. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jerel Seahorn, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Seahorn, also known as “L,” age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Seahorn admitted to selling heroin in March 2018 in Monongalia County.

Seahorn faces up to 20 years 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
 

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Omar Antonio Murillo-Bonilla, a citizen of Honduras, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for an immigration violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Murillo-Bonilla, age 32, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Murillo-Bonilla is accused of reentering the country illegally after being removed twice before. The crime allegedly occurred in August 2019 in Jefferson County.

Murillo-Bonilla faces up to two years 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 Jeffrey A. Finucane is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Matthew Scott Collins, of Stonewood, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury today on firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Collins, age 36, was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,” one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearm,” and one count of “Possession of Unregistered Silencer.” Collins, a person prohibited from having a firearm, is accused of having a .22 caliber rifle, a 9mm pistol, and a .223 caliber rifle in Barbour County in July 2018. All three firearms are stolen. Collins is also accused of having an unregistered .300 caliber silencer.

Collins faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the unlawful possession and the stolen firearm counts. He also faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000 fine for the silencer 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Juston Wimer, of Old Fields, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for drug distribution and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Wimer, age 35, is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin,” two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Buprenorphine,” one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Crime.” Wimer is accused of distributing heroin, methamphetamine, fentanyl and buprenorphine (suboxone) in January and February 2019. Wimer, who is prohibited from possessing a firearm, is also accused of having a .32 caliber pistol in February 2019. The crimes occurred in Hardy and Hampshire Counties.

Wimer faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each of the drug counts. He faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the unlawful possession count, and at least five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearm in furtherance of a drug crime 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jared Judy, of Petersburg, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Judy, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Judy admitted to distributing more than 69 grams of 100% pure methamphetamine in May 2019 in Berkeley County.

Judy faces up to 20 years 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.

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.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, West Virginia State Police, and the Charles Town Police Department investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Chad Juan M. Neal, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 22 months incarceration for heroin distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Neal, also known as “CJ,” age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin” and one count of “Distribution of Heroin” in April 2019. Neal admitted to  conspiring to distribute heroin in Harrison County, West Virginia and elsewhere from January 2016 to May 2016.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Stormey Angel Lois-Hite, of Anmoore, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years probation with the first six months on home detention for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Lois-Hite, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Transfer of Firearm to Prohibited Person” in April 2019. Lois-Hite admitted to purchasing a .22 caliber pistol for a convicted felon in January 2018 in Harrison County.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin Alexander Miske, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Miske, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in April 2019. Miske, having been previously convicted of a felony, admitted to having a .357 magnum revolver in December 2018 in Harrison County.
 
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Clarksburg Police Department investigated. 

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Delon Phillip Price, of Dearborn, Michigan, has admitted to drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Price, also known as “Pedro,” age 28, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Price admitted to selling heroin near West Virginia University in November 2017.

Price faces not less than one and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kevin E. Burley, Jr., of Parkville, Maryland, was sentenced today to 27 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Burley, also known as “Breeze,” age 34, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in April 2019. Burley, having been previously convicted of three felonies, admitted to having a 9mm pistol and four.380 caliber pistols in September 2016 in Preston County. 

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Preston County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jerry Lee Boyers, of Glenville, West Virginia, has admitted to drug distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Boyers, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Methamphetamine Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Boyers admitted to selling methamphetamine near Glenville State College in Gilmer County in September 2018.

Boyers faces not less than one and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Six people are facing charges of distributing methamphetamine after being indicted by a federal grand jury in Wheeling earlier this month, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

“Our prosecution efforts have significantly increased on the crystal methamphetamine front.  It is a dangerous drug that not only kills, but causes increased violence.  Our efforts, along with our law enforcement partners, are to prosecute all the way to the manufacturer of the methamphetamine.  We will persevere in our efforts,” said Powell.

The six are named in a 14-count indictment alleging methamphetamine distribution, sometimes near Bruce Park playground, Magnolia High School, and New Martinsville Elementary School, from July 2018 to June 2019 in Wetzel County and elsewhere. Those named in the indictment are:

•    David M. Metz, age 44, of New Martinsville, West Virginia
•    Calebe “Shaggy” McCune, age 23, New Martinsville, West Virginia
•    Zach Jerico, age 31, of New Martinsville, West Virginia
•    Wesley A. Ebbert, age 30, New Martinsville, West Virginia 
•    Jaclyn Starkey, age 27, New Martinsville, West Virginia 
•    Kaley Edgell, age 35, of New Martinsville, West Virginia

Meth is a scourge on our communities, according to D. Christopher Evans, Special Agent in Charge of DEA’s Louisville Division Office.  “While America’s opioid crisis may dominate headlines, Operation Crystal Mountain should serve as a reminder that meth is a problem that has never gone away,” Evans said.   “The dedicated men and women of DEA, working closely with state and local law enforcement, are relentless in their efforts to rid our neighborhoods of dangerous drugs and bring to justice those who distribute them, wherever they may be,” he added.
  
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the West Virginia State Police; and the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative investigated. 

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Danielle Lynn McCarty, of Shinnston, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

McCarty, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” McCarty admitted to having a stolen .45 caliber pistol in June 2018 in Lewis County.

McCarty faces up to 10 years 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Weston Police Department investigated. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dennis James Miller, of Moorefield, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in a fentanyl and methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Miller, age 49, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Miller admitted to distributing more than 64 grams of fentanyl and more than 69 grams of 100% pure methamphetamine from January to June 2019 in Grant County and elsewhere.

Miller faces at least five years and up to 40 years 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.

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.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, West Virginia State Police, and the Charles Town Police Department investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Eight people are facing charges of distributing heroin, cocaine, “crack” cocaine, and fentanyl after being indicted by a federal grand jury in Wheeling earlier this week, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

“Whether you live in another state or not, engaging in federal criminal conduct in the Northern District of West Virginia will get you prosecuted,” said Powell.

The 24-count indictment alleges heroin, cocaine, “crack” cocaine, and fentanyl distribution in Hancock County  and elsewhere from February 2018 to July 2019. Those named in the indictment are:

•    Robert Leon Sullivan, age 55, of Steubenville, Ohio
•    Antonio Dewayne Brown, age 35, of Weirton, West Virginia
•    Michael Bernard Barnett, age 43, of Steubenville, Ohio
•    Ryan Thomas Savage, age 36, of Wintersville, Ohio
•    Rolland Kwame Owens, age 29, of Steubenville, Ohio
•    Rashaan Donell Mukes, age 33, of Steubenville, Ohio
•    Shannon Terill Loveless, age 41, of Steubenville, Ohio
•    Zjaondezel Solomyn Douglas, age 35, of Zelienople, Pennsylvania

“The men and women of the DEA, working alongside our law enforcement partners, are committed to making communities like Weirton safer by getting rid of illegal drugs, and locking up those who traffic them,” said D. Christopher Evans, Special Agent in Charge of DEA’s Louisville Field Division, which oversees the agency’s operations in West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee, Kentucky.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danae DeMasi-Lemon and Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Jefferson County, Ohio, Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force; the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office; the Brooke County Sheriff’s Office; the Weirton Police Department; and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Police investigated. 

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Terrence D. Marsh, of Detroit, Michigan, was found guilty of drug distribution and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

After a four-day trial, a jury deliberated for 35 minutes before finding Marsh, age 37, guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Possess With the Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession With the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession With the Intent to Distribute Heroin within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession With the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime.” 

“Great perseverance by our trial team and law enforcement partners led to this conviction. We will continue to prosecute these cases aggressively.  The type of criminal conduct exhibited by the defendant will never be tolerated,” said Powell. 

Marsh conspired with others to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and more than 500 grams of methamphetamine in Marion County and elsewhere from the fall of 2018 to January 2019. Some of the drug dealing took place near West Fairmont Middle School, and included the presence of firearms.

The government is seeking the forfeiture of $18,540 in cash, two pistols, a rifle, and several rounds of ammunition.

Marsh faces not less than 10 years and up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10 million for the conspiracy and aiding and possession of methamphetamine count. He faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2 million for each of the heroin and fentanyl counts, and faces five years to life incarceration and a $250,000 fine for the firearms 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.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Traci M. Cook and Brandon S. Flower are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Three Rivers Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marcus Devaughn Coleman, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Coleman, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in April 2019. Coleman, who is prohibited from having a firearm, admitted to having 9mm pistol in March 2018 in Marion County. 

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Loren Hoffman, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms sales violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Hoffman, age 52, pled guilty to one count of “Making a False Entry in records by Federal Firearms Dealer.” Hoffman sold a .45 ACP caliber Hi-Point rifle and knowingly failed to make an appropriate entry of the sale in his records. The crime took place in October 2018 in Berkeley County.

Hoffman faces up to one year incarceration and a fine of up to $100,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Attorney General’s Office has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Attorney General announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.

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

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jesse Tichenor, of Morgantown, West Virginia, admitted to his involvement in a drug distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Tichenor, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility.” Tichenor admitted to using a phone to help distribute “crack” cocaine in March 2017 in Monongalia County.

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

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, led the investigation. 

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joroy Nigel Twyman, of Ranson, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing cocaine base, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Twyman, age 40, pled guilty to one count of “Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Twyman admitted to distributing cocaine base in April 2017 in Jefferson County.

Twyman faces up to 20 years 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.

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

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph Harrison, of Pine Grove, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Harrison, age 49, is charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number.” Harrison, who is not permitted to have a firearm because of a prior convictions, is accused of having a .45 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number and ammunition in June 2019 in Wetzel County. 

Fuller faces up to 10 years 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 David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office investigated. 

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin Michael Fuller, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Fuller, age 32, is charged with two counts of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Fuller, who is not permitted to have a firearm because of a prior conviction, is accused of having a 12-gauge shotgun and a 10mm pistol in Marshall County in May 2019, and having a .25 caliber pistol in Ohio County in May 2019.

Fuller faces up to 10 years 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 Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, and the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office investigated. 

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

WHEELING – U.S. Attorney Bill Powell and his staff will join law enforcement, community leaders and residents on Tuesday, August 6th at events in Martinsburg, Clarksburg, Bridgeport, and Wheeling to celebrate the 36th annual National Night Out crime and drug prevention event.

“Reducing violent crime and promoting safety in American communities is a major focus of the Justice Department and U.S. Attorneys across the country,” said Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen.  “National Night Out is an opportunity to strengthen the bonds, the respect, and the camaraderie between neighbors and law enforcement officers.  These relationships make our country stronger and safer.”

National Night Out is a community-building and crime prevention campaign that promotes collaborative law enforcement-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Thousands of communities nationwide will participate in neighborhood block parties, festivals, cookouts, safety demonstrations, seminars, and activities that heighten crime and drug prevention awareness and generate support for and participation in local anticrime efforts. Events such as these help to strengthen neighborhood spirit, police-community partnerships, and demonstrate a shared commitment for strong and safe communities.  
    
“For 36 years, National Night Out has rallied neighborhood residents, law enforcement and community leaders in the common goal of strengthening relationships to help prevent and deter crime in our local community.  I am proud to stand with my colleagues and my neighbors to support safer streets and work together to drive out crime,” said U.S. Attorney Powell.

National Night Out organizers are expecting over 16,000 communities and 38 million people nationwide to take part in community events on Tuesday.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Peggy Louise Farrington and Jacqueline Lee Weigland, both of Galivants Ferry, South Carolina, were sentenced today for distributing fentanyl, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Farrington, age 54, was sentenced to 24 months incarceration. Weigland, age 58, was sentenced to 57 months incarceration. Each pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl” in April 2019. The women admitted to possessing fentanyl in January 2019 in Berkeley County.

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. 

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

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Anthony Richardson, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 63 months incarceration for distributing fentanyl, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Richardson, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl” in April 2019. Richardson admitted to having more than 40 grams of a substance containing fentanyl in Ohio County in August 2018.

Richardson faces no less than five years and up to 40 years 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wheeling Police Department investigated.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brittany Baker, of Elk Garden, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for her involvement in a drug distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Baker, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in April 2019. Baker admitted to distributing methamphetamine in June 2018 in Mineral County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, The West Virginia State Police, and the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated. 

The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Tinesha Joann Burrows, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was arrested and had an initial appearance Friday after being indicted July 23, 2019 by a federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

“Exceptional law enforcement efforts led to seizure of fentanyl in quantities that could kill everyone in Berkeley County twice over.  When combined with the seizure of firearms, the result is a very dangerous combination. Luckily, none of it will get on our streets.  We remain steadfast in our mission to prosecute these cases,” said Powell. 
Burrows, age 36, was indicted on one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.”

Dwayne Paige, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, is also charged in the indictment. He is currently in custody. Paige, age 45, was indicted on two counts of “Distribution of Fentanyl,” one count of Distribution of Cocaine Base,” one count of “Distribution of Heroin,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.”

Burrows and Paige are accused of having more than 400 grams of fentanyl, 500 grams of cocaine, and 28 grams of cocaine base. Paige, a person prohibited from having a firearm, is also accused of having two .45 caliber handguns and a .40 caliber handgun. The crimes are alleged to have occurred December 2018 to February 2019 in Berkeley County. 

Burrows faces ten years to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000 for the aiding and abetting fentanyl count, and five to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for each of the other aiding and abetting counts. Paige faces 10 years to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000 for the aiding and abetting fentanyl count, five to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for each of the other aiding and abetting counts, and up to 20 years incarceration and fine of up to $1,000,000 for each of the distribution counts. Paige is also facing up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms 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.
The government is also seeking forfeiture of the following in connection to the alleged crimes:

•    $51,157.00 in U.S. currency
•    18K White Gold Diamond Ring
•    14K Yellow Gold Diamond Necklace Featuring 1988 1 Ounce Gold Eagle
•    14K Rose Gold Diamond Padlock Necklace
•    14K White Gold Hamsa Diamond Pendant Necklace
•    Hi-Point .45 caliber magazine with 9 rounds ammunition
•    Beretta .40 caliber magazine with 11 rounds ammunition
•    Glock .45 caliber magazine with 13 rounds ammunition

Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Washington County, Maryland Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated. 

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. 

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rogelio Santacruz Godinez, also known as “Tramposo,” also known as “Trampa,” Citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today to 60 months incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced. 

Godinez, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine” in August 2018. Godinez worked with others to distribute cocaine in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties from August 2017 to February 2018.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Lara K. Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, the Northwest Virginia Regional Drug & Gang Task Force , the West Virginia State Police, the Virginia State Police, 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. Other agencies that assisted in the investigation are the Winchester City Police Department; and Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office; Pittsylvania County; Virginia Sheriff’s Office; and the Henry County, Virginia, Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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