Northern District of West Virginia

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Marco Charles Gilbert, an inmate at Federal Correction Institution Hazelton in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, has admitted to indecent exposure, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Gilbert, age 33, pled guilty to two counts of “Indecent Exposure.” Gilbert admitted to exposing himself to staff at FCI Hazelton in December 2018 and January 2019.

Gilbert was sentenced to 180 days incarceration for the crimes.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. FCI Hazelton Special Investigative Services investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Destiny Hope Robinson, of Philippi, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Robinson, age 21, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Robinson admitted to distributing more than five grams of methamphetamine in Randolph County from December 2017 to July 2018.

Robinson is facing no less than five 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force and the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Stormetta Hawkins, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for her role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Hawkins, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Hawkins admitted to selling methamphetamine in July 2018 in Harrison County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting 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.
 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men have admitted to their roles in a cocaine and heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Andre Hager, also known as Andyman, of Wheeling, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base and Heroin.” Hager, age 47, admitted to distributing cocaine and heroin, in Ohio County from April 2018 to September 2018.

Joshua Ford, also known as “Fatboy,” of Columbus, Ohio, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” Ford, age 29, admitted to selling cocaine near Jensen Playground on Wheeling Island in May 2018.

Hager and Ford are each facing no 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 Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The investigation was led by the Ohio County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force is comprised of the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department. Those assisting in the arrests are the United States Marshal Service; Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Martins Ferry, Ohio Police Department; and the Columbus, Ohio Police Department.

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Five people were indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Elkins on June 18, 2019 for fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine distribution, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Melanie Lyn Outen, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Outen, age 47, is accused of distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl and a detectable amount of methamphetamine in Jefferson County in April 2019.

Ted Alexander Voss, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Voss, age 29, is accused of distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl in April 2019 in Jefferson County and distributing methamphetamine in May 2019 in Berkeley County.

Dennis James Miller, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl,” one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine,” two counts of “Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Miller, age 43, is accused of distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl in April 2019 in Jefferson County, distributing methamphetamine in April and May 2019 in Grant and Berkeley Counties, and distributing heroin in April and May 2019 in Grant County.

Michael Dean Smith, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Smith, age 49, is accused of distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl in April 2019 in Jefferson County and distributing methamphetamine in May 2019 in Berkeley County.
Jared Judy, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was indicted on one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Judy, age 29, is accused of distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl in April 2019 in Jefferson County and distributing methamphetamine in May 2019 in Berkeley County.

Each defendant faces at least five years and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the conspiracy count. Outen and Voss also face at least five years and up to 40 years incarceration for the aiding and abetting count. Miller, Smith, and Judy face up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each distribution 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 Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Charles Town Police Department investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Douglas Charles Knicely, of Jane Lew, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months incarceration for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Knicely, age 37, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Knicely admitted to participating in a drug distribution operation in October 2018 in Monongalia County. 

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

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Langbein, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, and Ramiro Pimentel, Jr., of Clarksburg, West Virginia, were sentenced today for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Langbein, age 28, was sentenced to 115 months incarceration. Langbein pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in March 2019. He admitted to distributing methamphetamine in March 2018 in Harrison County.

Pimentel, age 32, was sentenced to 78 months incarceration. Pimentel pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in February 2019. He admitted to selling methamphetamine in May 2017 in Harrison County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley 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. The United States Marshal Service assisted in the arrests.

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 – Justin Jackson, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced today to 48 months incarceration for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Jackson, age 41, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Jackson admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 2017 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 – Jalisa L. Hawkins, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, has admitted to her role in a heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Hawkins, also known as “Ashley,” age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin” and one count of “Distribution of Heroin in Proximity of a Protected Location.” Hawkins admitted to distributing heroin, sometimes near Emmanuel Christian School in Clarksburg, from January 2016 to May 2016 in Harrison County and elsewhere.

Hawkins is facing up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the conspiracy count, and faces not less than one year and up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for the distribution 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 Traci M. Cook is prosecuting 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 – Faith Martin, of Shinnston, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 41 months incarceration for her involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Martin, age 20, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Martin admitted to selling methamphetamine in Harrison County in August 2018.

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.

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CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Quionte Jordan Crawford, of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to using his smart phone to convince minors to send explicit pictures and videos, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Crawford, also known as “Kayla Stevens,” age 27, pled guilty to five counts of “Enticement of a Minor.” Crawford admitted to using his smart phone to persuade five different teenage boys to send sexual explicit pictures and videos to him. The crimes took place from November 2017 to December 2018 in Marion County.

Crawford is facing at least 10 years and up to life incarceration 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 Bridgeport Police Department investigated.

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/.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

L-R: EOUSA Director James Crowell, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, NDWV Administrative Officer Fawn Thomas, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell L-R: EOUSA Director James Crowell, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, NDWV Reentry Coordinator Ashley Lough, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell L-R: EOUSA Director James Crowell, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, NDWV Litigation Support Specialist Tracie Weaver, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell

WASHINGTON – Administrative Officer Fawn Thomas, Reentry Coordinator Ashley Lough, and Litigation Support Specialist Tracie Weaver of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of West Virginia were three of 172 members of the Department of Justice recognized by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 35th Director’s Awards Ceremony today in Washington D.C.

The Northern District of West Virginia was one of 31 districts represented at the ceremony which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.

In his prepared remarks, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen addressed the recipients and guests, saying, “Today’s honorees have earned the esteem of their colleagues.  But most importantly, you have earned the gratitude of your fellow citizens — whose communities you have made safer, whose lives you have improved, and whose trust you have rewarded.” 

In his remarks, EOUSA Director James Crowell told the recipients, “The Department of Justice is in truth a deployed force.  Your work isn’t easy, but it is vital to the functioning and enduring nature of our democracy.  As federal prosecutors, we are held to a higher standard, a standard that requires us to ensure that we uphold the rule of law and the fundamental rules of fairness in every trial, every settlement, every plea, and every legal argument in which we are involved.”

Fawn Thomas, Administrative Officer, is being honored for Superior Performance in Administration. Fawn has worked for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for 31 years, serving in several positions prior to becoming the Administrative Officer in 2012. Fawn has been described as a “force of nature”.  Her dedication to the District and its staff is unmatched.  She travels thousands of miles every year across the District trying to assure all ongoing needs are being met, and does so with a warm and generous spirit.  Her work ethic is well-known to all who know her and she exemplifies the District’s motto of “One District, One Mission.” Fawn’ endless hours of dedication greatly justifies the recognition she has now received. 

For Superior Performance in Prevention and Reentry Activities, the Executive Office has recognized Reentry Coordinator Ashley Lough.  Ashley has been the District’s Reentry Coordinator since 2017, and also serves at the Executive Assistant to the U.S. Attorney. Ashley has worked tirelessly to implement the district’s reentry simulation in all of the District’s federal correctional facilities, as well as several within the West Virginia’s Division of Corrections’ prisons. She has put the District on a national stage as the standard in reentry efforts with this simulation. She also assists with job fairs within our federal prisons, as well as trained those in other Districts across the country on reentry efforts. Her dedication to reentry and the success of those exiting prison is unmatched. Ashley has worked with the District for four years, and with the federal government for 12 years.

Tracie Weaver, Litigation Support Specialist, is being honored for Superior Performance in Litigative Support Role. Tracie was the first Litigation Support Specialist in the District, and has worked tirelessly to master the tools necessary for exemplary work in her position. Tracie has assisted in helped to establish four fully-trained Litigation Support Specialists now in the District. She offers vital assistance and knowledge to the other specialists, to the Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the District, serving as an important part of the criminal prosecution team, and to others on a national level. Tracie has worked for the District for more than 20 years.

“It is my great privilege to work daily with each of these extraordinary women. It is unheard of that a district our size has three award recipients.  Our districts’ honorees are great representatives of the dedication our staff has to our mission.  Our district couldn’t be prouder,” said United States Attorney Bill Powell, Northern District of West Virginia.

EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.

 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Tajuan Smith., of Canal Winchester, Ohio, has admitted to distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Smith, also known as “Poe,” age 20, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Smith admitted to selling cocaine near Jensen Playground in Wheeling in June 2018. 

Smith faces at least 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 Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated. 

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – After a two-day trial, Robert Michael Junkins, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was found guilty of drug and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

A jury deliberated for less than one hour before finding Junkins, age 50, of two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense,” and two counts of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” 

Junkins had methamphetamine in his possession on three separate occasions. Having been convicted of a felony drug offense, Junkins also illegally had several firearms and ammunition. The crimes occurred in August and September 2017 and November 2018 in Harrison County.

Junkins faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each the possession of methamphetamine counts, not less than five years and up to 40 years incarceration and fine of up to $250,000 for the firearm possession during a drug offense count, and up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the unlawful firearms possession counts. 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 Brandon S. Flower and Stephen D. Warner are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Elkins Police Department investigated. 

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Gregory A. Voltz, Jr., of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Voltz, age 35, pled guilty to three counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base Within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Voltz admitted to selling cocaine near Jensen Playground in Wheeling in  February 2018. 

Voltz faces at least one and up to 40 years 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 Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated. 

Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Terrance B. Fletcher, of Dover, Delaware, has admitted to distributing heroin, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Fletcher, also known as “Flex,” age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Fletcher admitted to distributing heroin in Berkeley County in February 2015. 

Fletcher 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 Timothy D. Helman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations; the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; and the Martinsburg Police Department investigated. 

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA –Lauren Hedges, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration for distributing methamphetamine near a school, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Hedges, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” in March 2019. Hedges admitted to distributing methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of Wheeling Central Catholic High School in November 2018. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia State Police; and the Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Darren L. Fryson, of Verona, Pennsylvania, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Fryson, age 48, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Fryson admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Ohio County and elsewhere from March 2018 to April 2019. 

Fryson 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Hamisi Mwawari, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 10 months incarceration for his involvement in a heroin, oxycodone, and cocaine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Mwawari, age 45, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility” in February 2019. Mwawari admitted to using a phone to assist in distributing controlled substances in May 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.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –  Travon Evans, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 70 months incarceration for his involvement in a heroin, oxycodone, and cocaine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Evans, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting a False Statement in the Acquisition of a Firearm” in March 2019.  Evans admitted to distributing heroin in June 2018 in Monongalia County. He also admitted to making a false statement in the attempted purchase of a 5.56 mm caliber pistol in May 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, has admitted to 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.” Beckner admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Marshall County and elsewhere from July 2018 to January 2019. 

Beckner 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Solomon Cottrill, of Salem, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months incarceration for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Cottrill, age 33, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Cottrill admitted to selling methamphetamine in November 2017 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 –Donald Hickman, Jr., of Reynoldsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months incarceration for his role in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Hickman, age 43, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2017. Hickman admitted to selling methamphetamine in January 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.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – After an eight-day trial, Dr. Krishan Kumar Aggarwal, of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, and Dr. Cherian John, of Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, were found not guilty of drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

“The jury returned not guilty verdicts against Dr. Aggarwal and Dr. John.  Notwithstanding the verdict, we remain steadfast in our intention to prosecute matters which we believe, based upon the evidence, support prosecution.  Jury trials are an adversarial process and do not provide guaranteed results.  Though we disagree with the jury in this case, the jury has spoken and that is part of the process, which we have the utmost respect for.  Our team worked very hard and this verdict will not deter our efforts on the opioid front,” said Powell.

A federal jury deliberated for nearly eight hours before finding Aggarwal, age 75, and John, age 66, not guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances Outside the Bounds of Professional Medical Practice,” and were also indicted on separate counts of “Aiding and Abetting Health Care Fraud,” and “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Controlled Substances Outside the Bounds of Professional Medical Practice.”  Aggarwal and John were accused of contracting with Redirections Treatment Advocates, LLC, in Weirton, West Virginia, and writing illegitimate prescriptions for suboxone, some of which were paid for by Medicaid and Medicare. 

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah E. Wagner and Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Inspector General at the U.S Department of Health and Human Services investigated.

Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eleven people were indicted by a federal grand sitting in Clarksburg on May 7, 2019 on drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

The indictment alleges a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, sometimes near Glenville State College, in Gilmer County and elsewhere from the July 2018 to November 2018. Those charged are:

• Cory Davonta Smith, Jr., age 26, of Barberton, Ohio
• Michael Anthony Hill, Jr., age 24, of Columbus, Ohio
• Waitman Larry Frederick, age 41, of Glenville, West Virginia
• Tressie Lenee Payne, age 23, of Normantown, West Virginia
• Jeremiah Lee Carr, age 31, of Glenville, West Virginia
• Brandi Dawn Singleton, age 41, of Burnsville, West Virginia
• Chet Atkins Massey, age 50, of Sand Fork, West Virginia
• Jerry Lee Boyers, age 41, of Glenville, West Virginia
• Joseph Lee Frederick, age 35, of Duck, West Virginia
• Kisha Starr Riggs, age 31, of Glenville, West Virginia
• Duncan Currie Canter, age 24, of Burnsville, West Virginia

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.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Chad Markle, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Markle, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Markle admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Marshall and Ohio Counties from July 2018 to February 2019. The government is also seeking the forfeiture of the Markles’ residence at 36 Fernwood Avenue in Wheeling.

Markle 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tara Ponceroff, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 years incarceration for child pornography, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Ponceroff, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Production of Child Pornography” in February 2019. Ponceroff admitted to producing and distributing child pornography involving a minor in December 2017 in Monongalia County.

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

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – DeRon Parrish and Andre Parrish, both of Morgantown, West Virginia, were arraigned today after being indicted by a federal grand sitting in Clarksburg on May 7, 2019 on firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

DeRon, age 31, and Andre, age  24, were each indicted on one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” DeRon was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearm as Convicted Felon.” Andre was indicted on one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm as Drug User.” DeRon and Andre, both prohibited from having a firearm, are accused of having three 12-guage shotguns, suspected to be stolen, in Monongalia County in November 2018.
 
DeRon and Andre each face 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.

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 is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Morgantown Police Department investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Danny David Wilt, of Keyser, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Martinsburg, West Virginia on May 21, 2019 for child pornography, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Wilt, age 44, is charged with one count of “Distribution of Child Pornography” one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.” Wilt is accused of distributing child pornography through his computer and possessing child pornography depicting a minor under the age of 12. The crimes took place in July and August 2017 in Mineral County.

Wilt faces up to 20 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.

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 is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police, and the Maryland State Police investigated. 

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Six people were indicted by a federal grand sitting in Clarksburg on May 7, 2019 on drug distribution charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

The indictment alleges a conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine, sometimes near West Virginia University, in Monongalia County from the fall of 2017 to May 2019. Those charged are:

• Anthony Foy, also known as “Duke,” age 41, of Detroit, Michigan
• Jerel Seahorn, also known as “L,” age 33, of Detroit, Michigan
• Ronald Bowser, age 37, of Morgantown, West Virginia
• Gerald Kyler, also known as “Dave,” age 37, of Eastpointe, Michigan
• Teisha Primm, age 30, of Morgantown, West Virginia
• Andrew Parker, age 29, of Mannington, West Virginia

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.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Zachary Douglas Brown, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand sitting in Clarksburg on May 7, 2019 on a failure to register charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Brown, age 33, was indicted on one count of “Failure to Register.” Brown is accused of traveling across state lines and failing to register as a sex offender, as required. The crime took place between January and March 2019.
 
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.

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 Danae Demasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Sharon E. Jackson, of Wellsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced on May 30, 2019 to two years probation for distributing drugs illegally, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Jackson, age 46, a registered nurse, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances Outside the Bounds of Professional Medical Practice” in December 2017. Jackson admitted to conspiring with others to illegally distribute suboxone, subutex, and buprenorphine, controlled substances used to treat opioid addiction. Jackson admitted to committing the crime while operating at an opioid addiction treatment center, Advance Healthcare, Inc., in Weirton, West Virginia from 2007 until 2017.

Jackson was also ordered to pay $100,000 in a money judgment.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah E. Wagner and Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Martin Anderson, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, had his initial appearance in federal court today after being indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling this week for firearms violations, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Anderson, age 30, is charged with two counts of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm with Obliterated Serial Number.” Anderson, a person prohibited from having firearms, is accused of possessing a .9 mm caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number, a .223 caliber rifle, and two .22 caliber rifles in Wetzel County in October 2017 and June 2018.

Anderson 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.

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 Shawn M. Adkins 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.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – William M. Johnson, Jr., of McMechen, West Virginia, had his initial appearance in federal court today after being indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Wheeling this week for a firearms violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Johnson, age 30, is charged with one count of “False Statement to Acquire Firearm.” Johnson is accused of making a false statement when purchasing a firearm. Johnson is accused of claiming the weapon was for his use, when, in fact, he purchased the .40 caliber pistol for a convicted felon. The crime took place in August 2018 in Ohio County.

Johnson 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 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. 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.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason R. Smoot, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced today to 89 months incarceration for selling cocaine near a playground, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Smoot, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” in November 2018. Smoot admitted to selling cocaine near the Jensen Playground in Wheeling in June 2017. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
 
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Juwan Floyd, of Tallahassee, Florida, has admitted to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Floyd, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Floyd admitted to working with another to distribute methamphetamine in November 2017 in Harrison County.

Floyd 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 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. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Vincent Scott, of Hudson, Ohio, has admitted to a sex charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Scott, age 31, pled guilty last week to one count of “Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct.” Scott admitted to traveling from Ohio to Harrison County, West Virginia, to engage in illegal sexual conduct in February 2019.

Scott faces up to 30 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 Bridgeport Police Department investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Gypsy Rene Winkler, of Keyser, West Virginia, has admitted to her involvement in a drug distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

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

Winkler 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 Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting 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.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Dustin L. White, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for a drugs and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

White, age 31, is charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine and Methamphetamine,” one count of “False Statement to Acquire Firearm,” three counts of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearms in Futherance of Drug Trafficking.” White is accused of distributing cocaine and methamphetamine from July 2018 to March 2019 in Marshall County and elsewhere. White, a person prohibited from having firearms, is also accused of possessing a two pistols, a revolver, and a shotgun in Marshall County in February and March 2019.

White faces five years to life incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearm during drug trafficking charge, up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the conspiracy charge and the methamphetamine charge, and up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the cocaine and other firearms counts. 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. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives 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.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua R. Sipe, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for a drugs and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Sipe, age 30, is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Sipe is accused of distributing cocaine and methamphetamine in March 2019 in Marshall County. Sipe, a person prohibited from having firearms, is also accused of possessing a .357 revolver in Marshall County in March 2019.

Sipe faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the drug charges and 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.

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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives 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.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ricky Runner, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for a firearms violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Runner, age 32, is charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Runner, a person prohibited from having firearms, is accused of possessing a .40 caliber pistol in Marshall County in October 2018.

Runner 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 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 Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. 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.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cordario Artez Crowder, of Baltimore, Maryland, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Crowder, also known as “Tony,” age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Commit False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm.” Crowder admitted to conspiring with another, asking him to make a false statement to purchase a 9mm pistol for Crowder, who was previously convicted of a felony and prohibited from purchasing or having a firearm. The crime took place in October 2018 in Mineral County.

Crowder faces up to five 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 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 Kimberley D. Crockett 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.
 

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Eric Allen Harris, of Beverly, West Virginia, has admitted to a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Harris, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” Harris admitted to distributing methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” in September 2018 in Randolph County.

Harris 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime 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.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Barrett Fairchild, of East Islip, New York, was sentenced today to three years probation for trafficking cigarettes to avoid paying the cigarette tax, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Fairchild, age 42, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Evade Tobacco Taxes” and one count of “Contraband Cigarettes Trafficking Act” in December 2017. Fairchild conspired with others to profit from the unlawful sale of contraband cigarettes. He transported large quantities of cigarettes across state lines for redistribution and sale. 

The cigarettes were acquired in Virginia, where the tax rate for cigarettes is one of the lowest in the nation, and sold in other states, including New York, which has one of the nation’s highest tax rates. The cigarettes were possessed and transported in West Virginia. 

Fairchild was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Stein prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, and the Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Timothy Byers, Jr., of Charles Town, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 240 months incarceration for bank robbery, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Byers, age 48, pled guilty to one count of “Bank Robbery” in March 2019. Byers admitted to robbing the Bank of Charles Town in Charles Town, West Virginia, on May 19, 2018. Byers got away with $7,048.

Byers was also ordered to pay &8,044 in restitution.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley D. Crockett prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Charles Town Police Department investigated. 

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA –Four men have been sentenced today to a combined 116 months incarceration for their roles in a methamphetamine conspiracy, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Corey Bircher, of Elk Garden, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 37 months incarceration. Bircher, age 26, pled guilty to one count of “Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime” in February 2019. Bircher admitted to having a .357 revolver during a methamphetamine distribution crime in February 2018 in Mineral County.

Steve William Gray, of Luray, Virginia, was sentenced to 18 months incarceration. Gray, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.” He admitted to conspiring with others to distribute methamphetamine from August 2017 to June 2018 in Mineral, Hardy, and Hampshire Counties.

Tyler Allen Whitacre, of Elk Garden, West Virginia, was sentenced to 15 months incarceration. Whitacre, age 25, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Whitacre admitted to selling methamphetamine in January 2018 in Mineral County.

Joseph Nathaniel Hagan, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 46 months incarceration. Hagan, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in March 2019. Hagan admitted to distributing methamphetamine in January 2018 in Hampshire County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the cases 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.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jay D. Dehaven, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years probation for filing a false tax return, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Dehaven, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Filing False Income Tax Return” in January 2019. Dehaven admitted to understating his income by more than $136,000, resulting in an unpaid tax of more than $50,000. The crime took place in October 2016 in Berkeley County.

Dehaven was ordered to pay a $10,000 fine and $99,640 in restitution.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Samuel Hogans, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced today to 151 months incarceration for drug distribution and having a weapon, or shank, in prison, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Hogans, also known as Richard Hogans, also known as “Lex,” age 38, was sentenced to 60 months incarceration for having a weapon in prison. He was found guilty by a jury of one count of “Possessing Contraband in Prison” in December 2018. Hogans, an inmate at the Eastern Regional Jail in Berkeley County where he was being held on another federal charge, had a shank in August 2018. 

Hogans was also sentenced to 151 months, to be served concurrently with the 60-month sentence, for drug distribution. Hogans pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin” in December 2018. Hogans admitted to distributing heroin in October 2017 in Berkeley County.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Finucane prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service and the West Virginia Division of Corrections investigated. 
 
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Cameron Dixon, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 20 months incarceration for a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.

Dixon, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm” in February 2019. Dixon admitted to having a stolen .45 caliber pistol in September 2017 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.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Oscar Aaron Watkins, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 156 months incarceration for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Watkins, also known as Eric Oscar Watkins, age 58, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances” in February 2019. Watkins admitted to participating in a drug distribution operation in October 2018 in Monongalia County. 

Watkins was also ordered to forfeit $9,820.

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

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