Northern District of West Virginia

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Maurice L. Whyte, II, 23, Kasie A. Morgan, 24, Kionte K. Whatley, 19, Marilyn Whatley, 37, and Jolisha McDonald, 25, all of Columbus, Ohio, with transporting stolen goods, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

From January 2014 through June 2015, all five individuals allegedly conspired with one another to steal primarily smart phones, tablets, head phones, games stations, and computers from Walmart, Target, and Meijer stores in eight different states, including West Virginia and Ohio. The value of the stolen goods are estimated to be in excess of $500,000.

Whyte, Morgan, Kionte Whatley, Marilyn Whatley, and McDonald are each charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Transport Stolen Goods in Interstates Commerce.” Whyte, Morgan, Marilyn Whatley, and McDonald are also each charged with two counts of “Interstate Transportation of Stolen Property.” They face up to five years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 for the conspiracy charge and up to ten years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 for each of the interstate transportation of stolen property charges. 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Columbus, Ohio Police Department are investigating.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joshua Cline, 23, of Fairmont, WV, pled guilty to a federal firearm charge today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Cline was found in possession of a 9mm caliber pistol in Marion County, West Virginia.  Cline used that firearm in furtherance of his marijuana distribution operation.

He pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime.” He faces up to five years in prison 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Three Rivers Drug Task Force investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA– Claude Jones, 33, of Fairmont, West Virginia was convicted and sentenced today for cocaine distribution, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Jones sold cocaine in the Fairmont area of Monongalia County during January 2014.  Jones pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” He was sentenced today to 120 months in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug Task Force investigated. 

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging Jason Wayne Russell, 38, of Moorefield, WV and Brandon David Fout, 20, of Old Fields, WV, with heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

From January through June 2015, Russell and Fout allegedly conspired with one another to transport heroin across state lines from Baltimore, Maryland into West Virginia in order to redistribute the drug.

Russell and Fout are each charged with one count of “Heroin Conspiracy,” one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin – Aiding and Abetting,” and one count of “Interstate Travel in Furtherance of a Drug Crime.” They both face up to 20 years in prison and up to $1,000,000 in fines for each the conspiracy and possession charges. They also face up to five years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 for the interstate travel charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police, West Virginia State Police – Bureau of Criminal Investigations, and the Hardy County Sheriff’s Office are investigating.

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments today charging four men found in Morgantown with illegal reentry into the United States, U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Selvin Garcia-Xitumul, 21, originally from Guatemala; Wilson Ariel Garcia-Guzman, 21, originally from Guatemala; Marco May-Cucil, 27, originally from Guatemala; and Javier Vargas-Zaldivar 32, originally from Honduras, were allegedly discovered in May 2016 in Monongalia County, West Virginia after previously having been deported from the country. They are each charged with one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien.” They each face up to two years in prison and a fine up to $250,000.

Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah W. Montoro is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The United States Department of Homeland Security Immigrations and Customs Enforcement is investigating.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Sanders, 25, of Williamsport, Maryland, was sentenced to 120 months in prison today for distribution of heroin, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Sanders sold heroin in June 2014 near Martinsburg, West Virginia that led to the death of a 29- year-old Hagerstown, Maryland man. He pled guilty in November 2015 to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Debra M. Moses, 47, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for mail fraud, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Moses, a legal assistant at Cassell and Prinz, PLLC, devised a scheme to defraud her employer of attorney fees paid by the United States Social Security Administration by endorsing U.S. Treasury checks payable to “John M. Cassell Attorney” and mailing them to Baltimore, MD for deposit into her personal checking account. Over a nearly seven year period, Moses deposited in excess of $300,000 into her checking account.

Moses pled guilty in March 2016 to one count of “Mail Fraud.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul T. Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Secret Service and the United States Social Security Administration investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Darrin Lawrence Broadnax, 49, of Detroit, Michigan pled guilty to heroin distribution and trafficking today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Broadnax pled guilty to “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” Specifically, Broadnax sold heroin in January 2015 near an elementary school in Monongalia County, West Virginia. Broadnax also admitted to transporting heroin for redistribution and sale across state lines from Michigan to West Virginia. He faces between one and 40 years in prison and a fine not to exceed $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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three individuals pled guilty to heroin distribution in federal court in Clarksburg today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Romelle Deshaun Stevens, 26, of Detroit, Michigan pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Stevens admitted to selling heroin in Monongalia County during December 2015. He faces not more than 20 years in prison and a fine not to exceed $1,000,000.

Robert Tucker, 22, of Clarksburg, WV pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.” Tucker admitted to selling heroin in Monongalia County during August 2015. He faces not more than 20 years in prison and a fine not to exceed $1,000,000.

Michaelo Merone, 30, of Westover, WV pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Merone admitted to selling heroin in Monongalia County during October 2015. He faces not more than 20 years in prison and a fine not to exceed $1,000,000.

Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the defendant’s prior criminal history, if any.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kalif Briggs, 33, of Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for transporting oxycodone across state lines today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Briggs previously pled guilty in February 2016 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Oxycodone.” Briggs admitted to transporting oxycodone from Philadelphia to Morgantown, West Virginia for redistribution and sale.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Franklin McVay, 30, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was convicted and sentenced today for escape, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

In March 2016, McVay escaped from custody at the Dismas Charities of Clarksburg Halfway House in Harrison County, West Virginia.
     
McVay pled guilty today to an Information charging him with one count of “Escape.” He was sentenced today to twelve months and one day in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal jury convicted Keevus Weeks, 32, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania of heroin and oxycodone trafficking today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Evidence presented at trial indicated that Weeks was involved in a drug trafficking operation in which heroin and oxycodone were transported across state lines from Philadelphia to Morgantown, West Virginia for redistribution and sale throughout the region.

Following a 3 day trial, a jury found Weeks guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone and Heroin,” two counts of “Distribution of Oxycodone within 1000 feet of a Protected Location,” and one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone.”

For the “Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone and Heroin” charge, Weeks faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Weeks faces between one to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for each of the “Distribution of Oxycodone within 1000 feet of a Protected Location” charges. For the “Distribution of Oxycodone” charge, Weeks faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed for each charge 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Deven Deloreece Johnson, 21, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, pled guilty today to providing false information in order to purchase a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Johnson provided false information during the acquisition of a 9mm caliber pistol in December 2015 in Berkeley County, West Virginia.

Johnson pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Provide a False Statement During the Attempted Purchase of a Firearm.” He faces up to 10 years in prison 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 Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three individuals from Mexico pled guilty to illegal reentry today in federal court in Martinsburg, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Rubisley Martinez-Canseco, 38, originally of Mexico, was discovered in April 2016 in Berkeley County after having been deported from the United States. Martinez-Canseco pled guilty today to one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien.” He faces up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

Pedro Camarrillo-Guevarra, 26, originally of Mexico, was discovered in October 2015 in Berkeley County after previously having been deported from the United States. Camarrillo-Guevarra pled guilty today to one count of “Reentry of a Removed Alien.” He faces up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

Alberto Martinez-Nieto, 45, originally of Mexico, was discovered in April 2016 in Berkeley County, West Virginia after previously having been deported from the United States.  Martinez-Nieto has multiple previous felony convictions, including “Vehicle Theft” and “Possession for Sale or Purchase for Purposes of Sale a Controlled Substance (Cocaine).” Martinez-Nieto pled guilty today to one count of “Reentry of a Deported Alien Previously Convicted of an Aggravated Felony.” He faces up to 20 years in prison 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 defendants.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The United States Department of Homeland Security Immigrations and Customs Enforcement investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Brandon S. Moore, 24, of New Cumberland, West Virginia, pled guilty today to a federal firearms charge, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

In June 2015, Moore stole a Glock pistol, model 22, .40 caliber from a residence in Brooke County, West Virginia. Moore pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of a Stolen Firearm.” He faces up to 10 years in prison 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 Randy J. Bernard prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, the Brooke County Sheriff’s Department, and the Weirton Police Department investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals pled guilty to unlawful possession of firearms today in federal court in Martinsburg, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Dione Aliquan Taylor, 29, of Martinsburg, who has pervious felony convictions in state court in New Jersey, was discovered in unlawful possession of a .45 caliber pistol in December 2015 in Jefferson County, West Virginia. He was previously convicted of the felony offenses of “Conspiracy to Violate Narcotics Laws,” “Possession with the Intent to Distribute CDS on School Property,” and “Possession with Intent to Distribute CDS on School Property” in the Superior Court of Essex County, New Jersey. Taylor pled guilty today to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” He faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

Thomas James King, 26, of Clarksburg, Maryland, who has previous felony convictions in federal court in West Virginia and state court in Maryland, was discovered in unlawful possession of a 9mm pistol in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He was previously convicted of the felony offenses of “Conspiracy to Commit Robbery” in the Circuit Court for Montgomery County, Maryland, and “Felon in Possession of a Firearm” in the United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia. King pled guilty today to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” He faces up to 10 years in prison 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 defendants.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins prosecuted Taylor and Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti prosecuted King 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 – Raimonte Gaston, 23, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty to heroin trafficking today in federal court in Clarksburg, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Gaston sold heroin in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” He faces up to 20 years in prison 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 Shawn Adkins and Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Justin Donald Myers, 37, of Morgantown, West Virginia, pled guilty to heroin trafficking today in federal court in Clarksburg, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Myers was among fourteen individuals charged with heroin trafficking when three separate federal indictments disrupted a Michigan to West Virginia heroin trafficking network in February 2016. Specifically, Myers sold heroin in January 2016 near West Virginia University in Monongalia County, West Virginia.

Myers pled guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” He faces between one and forty years in prison 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 Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Antonio Cottingham, 29, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 46 months in prison for unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Cottingham, who has previous felony convictions in federal and state court in West Virginia, was discovered in unlawful possession of a .44 caliber revolver in August 2015 in Fairmont, West Virginia. Cottingham was previously convicted in the Northern District of West Virginia of the felony offenses of “Distribution of Crack Cocaine” and “Escape from Custody.” He was also previously convicted in state court in West Virginia of the felony offense of “Conspiracy to Commit a Felony Against the Sate.”

Cottingham pled guilty in January 2016 to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Fairmont, West Virginia Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Davel Godfrey Young, 53, of Montego Bay, Jamaica, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for wire fraud, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Young, along with other individuals, made a series of unsolicited phone calls and sent unsolicited emails to a variety of United States citizens. Young informed these individuals that they had won a multi-million dollar lottery prize and a new Mercedes Benz or BMW vehicle. Young then informed the purported lottery winners that in order to receive their lottery prizes, they needed to pay taxes and processing fees by wiring finds to Jamaica and various locations within the United States.

Young further sent fraudulent documentation that misleadingly appeared to be official government forms and unlawfully portrayed the names and symbols of the Internal Revenue Service, Department of Treasury, and Federal Reserve Board. Young also transmitted electronic images of forged multi-million dollar cashier’s checks.

Young pled guilty in November 2015 to one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud.” As part of the sentenced imposed today, Young was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $232,118.78.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph W. Davis, 31, of Wheeling, pled guilty today to unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Davis, who has a previous felony conviction in federal court in West Virginia, was discovered in unlawful possession of a .22 caliber revolver in January 2016 in Ohio County, West Virginia. Davis was previously convicted of the felony offense of “Aiding and Abetting in the Possession with Intent to Distribute More Than Five Grams of Cocaine Base” in the United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia in January 2006.

Davis pled guilty today to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” He faces up to 10 years in prison 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 Randy Bernard prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Wheeling Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Arturo Jimenez De Los Santos, 33, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, pled guilty today to methamphetamine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

De Los Santos was discovered in possession of crystal methamphetamine in October 2015 in Jefferson County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” He faces up to 20 years in prison 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 Lara K. Omps-Botteicher, also of the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Bamberger, 53, and Tammy Bamberger, 47, both of Martins Ferry, Ohio, pled guilty in federal court in Wheeling today to marijuana trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Robert and Tammy Bamberger were discovered in November 2015 in possession of a package containing more than 14 pounds of marijuana that had been shipped from California to Ohio County, West Virginia.

They each pled guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana.” They each face up to five years in prison 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 Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the United States Postal Inspection Service investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Mark Louis Flint, II, 30, of Wheeling, pled guilty today to heroin and cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Flint conspired with other individuals to possess and distribute heroin and cocaine in October 2015 in Ohio County, West Virginia.

Flint pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule I and Schedule II Controlled Substances.” He faces up to 20 years in prison 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 Randy Bernard prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Willie Vishone Joyner, 31, of Sterling, Virginia, pled guilty today to unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Joyner, who has a previous felony conviction in state court in Virginia, was discovered in unlawful possession of a .32 caliber revolver in September 2015 in Jefferson County, West Virginia. Joyner was previously convicted of the felony offense of “Strangle Another to Cause Wounding or Injury” in the Circuit Court of Loudoun County, Virginia in May 2013.

Joyner pled guilty today to one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” He faces up to 10 years in prison 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 Anna Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging Donaven J. White, 20, of Coshocton, Ohio, with unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

White, who has a previous felony conviction in state court in Ohio, was allegedly discovered in unlawful possession of a .22 caliber revolver in April 2016 in Ohio County, West Virginia. White was previously convicted of the felony offense of “Robbery” in the Court of Common Pleas of Belmont County, Ohio in August 2014.

White is charged with one count of “Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm,” He faces up to 10 years in prison 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 Stephen Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Wheeling, West Virginia Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are investigating.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging Shawndale Saunders, 54, of Martins Ferry, Ohio, with cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Throughout April and May 2016, Saunders allegedly conspired with other individuals to transport cocaine across state lines from Ohio into West Virginia in order to possess and sell the drug in Ohio County, West Virginia. Specifically, Saunders is alleged to have utilized a telephone to facilitate the sale of cocaine in Ohio County, West Virginia.

Saunders is charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute 280 Grams or More of Cocaine Base,” for which he faces between 10 years and life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000,000. He is further charged with one count of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate Distribution of Cocaine Base,” for which he faces up to four years in prison 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 Stephen Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Martins Ferry, Ohio Police Department are investigating.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Angel Rae Klein, 27, of Wheeling, pled guilty today to heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Klein possessed and sold heroin throughout late 2014 and early 2015 in Ohio County, West Virginia. In several instances, Klein sold heroin that contained fentanyl.

Klein pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl.” She faces up to 20 years in prison 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.

U.S. Attorney William J Ihlenfeld, II, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Tiffany Renee Taylor, 26, of Clarksburg, pled guilty today to unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Taylor, who is addicted to heroin, was discovered in unlawful possession of a .45 caliber firearm in April 2015 in Harrison County, West Virginia.

Taylor pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of a Firearm While Being an Unlawful User and Addicted to a Controlled Substance.” She faces up to 10 years in prison 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 Shawn Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ryan Hayworth, 21, of Mullens, West Virginia, pled guilty to heroin trafficking today in federal court in Clarksburg, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Hayworth was among fourteen individuals charged with heroin trafficking when three separate federal indictments disrupted a Michigan to West Virginia heroin trafficking network in February 2016. Specifically, Hayworth sold heroin in March 2015 near West Virginia University in Monongalia County, West Virginia.

Hayworth pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location – Aiding and Abetting.” He faces between one and forty years in prison 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 Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Arnaldo Martinez-Gomez, 30, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Hazelton, was convicted and sentenced today for assaulting a fellow prisoner, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Martinez-Gomez assaulted a fellow prisoner during a physical altercation at USP Hazelton in September 2014. He pled guilty today to one count of “Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm.” He was sentenced to an additional 18 months in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Special Investigative Services Unit at USP Hazelton led the inquiry.

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals pled guilty to methamphetamine trafficking today in federal court in Elkins, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Donald Ray Cantrell, 40, of Mill Creek, West Virginia, was discovered in possession of methamphetamine in March 2016 in Randolph County, West Virginia. Following an investigation by the Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, he pled guilty today to one count of "Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine." He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.

Samuel Lee Winebrenner, 29, of Petersburg, West Virginia, sold morphine in Grant County, West Virginia. Following an investigation by the Potomac Highlands Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, he pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Morphine.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. As part of the plea agreement entered today, Winebrenner withdrew a guilty plea previously entered in April 2016 in which he admitted to selling morphine near a protected location.

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 defendants.

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

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Michael Hawley, 28, of Moorefield, West Virginia, pled guilty today to unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Hawley, who has a previous felony conviction in state court in West Virginia, was discovered in unlawful possession of a .40 caliber pistol in April 2015 in Grant County, West Virginia. He was previously convicted of the felony offense of “Unlawful Assault” in the Circuit Court of Hardy County, West Virginia.

Hawley pled guilty today to one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearms.” He faces up to 10 years in prison 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 Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – The Berkeley County, West Virginia Sheriff’s Department is embracing a new resource that will enhance efforts to reduce the number of drug overdose deaths in the region, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Deputies in Berkeley County will soon be trained and equipped to utilize naloxone, a medication that reverses overdoses resulting from heroin, prescription painkillers, and other opioids. As part of the program, all deputies will be trained how to quickly identify the symptoms of an opioid overdose, how to administer naloxone, and how to protect fellow officers that might be exposed to opioid drugs in the field.

“The use of naloxone by Berkeley County deputies will save lives and allow for critical prevention, education, and treatment resources to be provided to individuals who are battling addiction,” noted U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld.  “Providing law enforcement with the knowledge and the tools needed to reverse overdoses will reduce the time between when an overdose victim is discovered and when they receive lifesaving assistance.”

Opioids cause death by slowing, and eventually stopping, the person’s breathing. When administered, naloxone restores respiration within two to five minutes, and may prevent brain injury and death.  Naloxone works on overdoses caused by opioids, which includes prescription painkillers and street drugs like heroin. Naloxone, sometimes referred to as Narcan, has no potential for abuse.

Law enforcement agencies and community organizations interested in learning more about naloxone or scheduling training sessions regarding the legal framework surrounding it are encouraged to contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (304) 234-0100.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict today convicting Lateef Fisher, 38, of Hagerstown, Maryland, of selling heroin that resulted in the death of another, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Evidence presented at the two day trial indicated that Fisher, also known as “Apple,” conspired with another individual to sell heroin in June 2014 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. That heroin led to the death of a 27 year-old male victim.
 
As a result of the conviction, Fisher faces a minimum of 20 years in federal prison and up to life.

"Heroin has taken the lives of far too many people," said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld.  "We will continue to be aggressive in our pursuit of those who sell heroin, especially when it results in the death of another."
 
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Camilletti and Anna Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
 
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ryan Bobby Schnettler, 25, of Weirton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 87 months in prison for possession of child pornography, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Schnettler was discovered in possession of child pornography in October 2015 in Hancock County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in February 2015 to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kearneysville, West Virginia resident Francisco Gaspar Sanchez, 57, originally of Mexico, was sentenced to 121 months in prison for methamphetamine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Evidence presented during a two day trail in February 2016 indicated that Sanchez conspired with another individual to sell crystal methamphetamine in Jefferson County, West Virginia. Specifically, Sanchez was discovered in possession of methamphetamine in Jefferson County in April 2014.

Following the trial, a jury found Sanchez guilty of one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine,” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” He was sentenced to 121 months in prison on each count. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 121 months in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Camilletti and Anna Krasinski, along with Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher, also of the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. 

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two individuals were sentenced in federal court in Martinsburg today for their roles in an unlawful cigarette smuggling scheme, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Fahd Hamood Aljahaf, 38, of Bronx, New York, and Muneer Kaid Khaled, 26, of Brooklyn, New York, collaborated  to facilitate a trafficking network designed profit from the unlawful sale of contraband cigarettes. The defendants 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 New York, which has one of the nation’s highest tax rates.  The cigarettes were possessed and transported in West Virginia.

Each of the defendants pled guilty in February 2016 to one count of “Conspiracy to Traffic in Contraband Cigarettes.” Aljahaf was sentenced today to 18 months in prison. Khaled was sentenced today to probation for a term of 36 months.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Stein and Shawn Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. Homeland Security Investigations, the Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office, the Virginia Office of Attorney General, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, the West Virginia State Police, the New York Department of Taxation and Finance, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation led the inquiry.

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

*NOTE* This press release was corrected at 6:16PM on 5/16/2016 to reflect the accurate sentences imposed.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Oluwabunmi Idris Odu-Onikosi, 29, of Dallas, Texas, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for using stolen identities to obtain fraudulent federal income tax refunds, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Odu-Onikosi repeatedly and fraudulently obtained personal identifying information from a variety of individuals, including names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers. He utilized that information to create and prepare fraudulent income tax returns and false earnings statements containing fictitious wage, withholding, gambling winnings, and other fabricated information. 

Odu-Onikosi filed more than 400 false federal individual income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service. These returns fraudulently claimed tax refunds in excess of $3,000,000. Odu-Onikosi received fraudulent tax refund payments in excess of $500,000 in the form of United States Treasury Checks and direct deposits to bank accounts and prepaid debit cards maintained and controlled by Odu-Onikosi.

“Today’s legal proceedings bring Mr. Oluwabunmi Odu-Onikosi to justice,” noted Thomas M. Jankowski, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Washington, D.C. Field Office. “Mr. Odu-Onikosi violated the privacy of people, used this to cheat our tax system and pocket ill-gotten gains. This ID theft prosecution of Mr. Odu-Onikosi in West Virginia marks a milestone in the prosecution as the fraudulent tax returns he filed electronically were received by the IRS Enterprise Computing Center located in Martinsburg. This is a very serious crime throughout our nation; those committing crimes such as this should take notice that you will receive a harsh sentence when you are convicted of this crime in the Northern District of West Virginia. My office will continue to work with the United States Attorney’s Office to see that these offenses are investigated and prosecuted to assure compliance with our nation’s tax laws.”

Odu-Onikosi pled guilty in January 2016 to one count of “Wire Fraud.” As part of the sentenced imposed today, he was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $539,899.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation led the inquiry with assistance from the New Orleans, Louisiana Police Department and the United States Secret Service.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Casey Tyler Nagy, 29, originally of Missouri, was sentenced today to 46 months in prison for drug trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Nagy distributed lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in June 2015 in Wetzel County, West Virginia. Nagy pled guilty in March 2016 to one count of “Distribution of LSD.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Martinsville Police Department investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jessica A. McCracken, 33, of Clarksburg, was sentenced today to 21 months in prison for cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

McCracken sold cocaine base near the Harrison Street Playground in Harrison County, West Virginia. She pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – The newest federal prosecutor in the Northern District of West Virginia was sworn-in today in United States District Court.

Traci M. Cook took the oath of office this afternoon before U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley. Cook will work in the Criminal Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and also serve as the supervisor of the Clarksburg branch office.

“Traci is a seasoned litigator with a level of skill and dedication that will be a tremendous asset in our efforts to combat drug trafficking and violent crime in Northern West Virginia,” noted U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II. “Her wealth of trial and supervisory experience will allow her to immediately contribute to the office and enhance law enforcement efforts in the region.”

Cook graduated from West Liberty State College in 1992 with a Bachelor of Science in International Studies. She is a 1996 graduate of the West Virginia University College of Law where she was the champion of the Lugar Trial Competition and member of the Order of the Barristers.

Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Cook served as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Harrison County, West Virginia, for over a decade.  She also worked as an Assistant Public Defender for the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit in Clarksburg and in the private sector.

Pictured from left to right: United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, Assistant United States Attorney Traci Cook, and United States District Judge Irene M. Keeley.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Craig Steven Abercrombie, Jr., 32, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months in prison for unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Abercrombie was discovered in July 2015 in possession of cocaine and a 9mm pistol in Marion County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in December 2015 to one count of “Possession of a Firearm in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Fairmont, West Virginia Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Keith Antonio Cohens, 35, of Detroit, Michigan, pled guilty to heroin trafficking today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Cohens was among fourteen individuals that participated in a drug trafficking operation in which heroin was transported across state lines from Michigan and redistributed and sold in West Virginia. Three federal indictments filed in February 2016 disrupted the heroin trafficking scheme.

Specifically, Cohens sold heroin in November 2015 in Monongalia County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” He faces up to 20 years in prison 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 Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – During an awards ceremony held this week in Wheeling, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II recognized the Wheeling Park High School Speech and Debate Program for its longstanding tradition of excellence in academic achievement and its dedication to the personal and professional development of local students.

Nearly four decades ago, Frances Schoolcraft, then a teacher at Triadelphia High School, cultivated a group of students that excelled in academics, leadership, and public speaking. That group would evolve to become the Wheeling Park High School Speech and Debate Program. Schoolcraft led the program for twenty-five years and sparked a tradition of excellence. The program has won 224 tournaments and earned the West Virginia State Speech and Debate Tournament championship every year since 1980.

The Wheeling Park High School Speech and Debate Program has developed into a true dynasty. This year’s team was undefeated, winning nine tournaments throughout West Virginia and Pennsylvania. As a crowning achievement to a dominant season, the program earned its thirty-seventh consecutive state championship. Under the visionary leadership of Frances Schoolcraft, the program claimed twenty-five consecutive state titles. Wheeling Park High School teacher William Cornforth has continued to build the program’s legacy, winning another twelve successive state championships.

Alumni of the program have gone on to take center stage under the bright lights of Broadway, pursue Ivy League educations, appear on nationally recognized television programs, and become exemplary leaders in communities across the country. Teams and individual competitors have also enjoyed success in national high school speech and debate competitions. Earning a spot on the Wheeling Park Speech and Debate Team has become such a coveted accomplishment that the program has implemented a competitive process to select students for the team. Forty-three students represented the program during the 2015-2016 academic year.

The United States Attorney’s Awards ceremony was held at the United States Courthouse in Wheeling on Monday. Wheeling Park High School Speech and Debate Program founder Frances Schoolcraft attended the ceremony and helped accept the award.

Pictured from left to right: William J. Ihlenfeld, II, United States Attorney; Dianna Vargo, Superintendent of Ohio County Schools; Amy Minch, Principal of Wheeling Park High School; Joshua Fromhart, Debate Coach and Teacher at Wheeling Park High School; Frances Schoolcraft, Founder and Former Coach of Speech and Debate Team at Wheeling Park High School; Philip Schwarz, Co-captain of Speech Team; Hannah Meredith, Co-captain of Speech Team; Danielle Kaminski, Co-captain of Debate Team; James Miller, III, Co-captain of Debate Team

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Randy Joe Jones, 33, of Clarksburg, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Jones sold heroin near Harrison Street Park in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in January 2016 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Clarksburg residents were sentenced today for selling cocaine and prescription drugs near local playgrounds, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Davina Bland, 22, of Clarksburg, sold cocaine near Clarksburg City Park – Monticello Avenue Playground in Harrison County, West Virginia. She pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” She was sentenced today to 33 months in prison.

Tyler Shay Romine, 24, of Clarksburg, sold buprenorphine near Clarksburg City Park – Stealy Park, a playground in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Buprenorphine within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” He was sentenced today to 15 months in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Montoro and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Matthew Dylan Harrison, 25, of Martinsburg, pled guilty today to heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Harrison sold heroin in June 2014 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” He faces up to 20 years in prison 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 Stephanie Taylor, also of the Berkeley County, West Virginia Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joseph Robert Paper, 32, of Ranson, West Virginia, pled guilty today to traveling across state lines with the intent to engage in sexual conduct with a minor victim, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

In January 2016, Paper transported a minor female across state lines from Pennsylvania into West Virginia with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. He pled guilty today to one count of “Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct.” He faces up to 30 years in prison 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 Shawn Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police Crimes Against Children Unit investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Bonnie Jean Butler, 55, of St. Marys, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for her role in manufacturing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Butler was among six individuals charged in June 2015 when a 19-count federal indictment disrupted a methamphetamine manufacturing operation in Pleasants County, West Virginia.

Butler was discovered in February 2014 in possession of various materials commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine. She pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession of Material Used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police and the Pleasants County Sheriff’s Department investigated.

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