Northern District of West Virginia

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Basile, 64, of Fairview, West Virginia, pled guilty in federal court today to unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Basile pled guilty today to an Information charging him with one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearms.” Basile was discovered in possession of two stolen firearms in Marion and Monongalia Counties.

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

Assistant U.S. Attorney David Perri 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.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Randy Joe Jones, 32, of Clarksburg, was convicted of heroin trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Jones sold heroin near Harrison Street Park in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to one count of “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 $4,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn 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.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert J. Gongloff, 26, of Terra Alta, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 180 months in prison after he admitted to producing child pornography, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Gongloff, originally from Preston County and now a resident of Weirton, West Virginia, pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Production of Child Pornography.” By pleading guilty, Gongloff admitted that he had produced numerous images and videos depicting nude minors and minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

Authorities further discovered that Gongloff misrepresented his name and age on a website known as MeetMe.com, claiming to be 17 years old and using the name “Johnny Williamson,” in order to transmit sexually explicit photographs to multiple minor females.

"This conviction and sentence should serve as a stern warning about the consequences awaiting individuals who prey on the most vulnerable members of our communities - our children," said John Kelleghan, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations’ Philadelphia Field Office. "Protecting our children from predators remains an HSI priority, and we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify, arrest and bring these predators to justice."

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation with assistance from the West Virginia State Police

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided. 

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned indictments on Wednesday charging four individuals with lying to unlawfully obtain firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Curtessa Monet Franklin, 21, of Canton, Massachusetts, is alleged to have traveled to West Virginia and conspired with Deven Deloreece Johnson, 21, and Ashanta Renea Marshman, 22, both of Martinsburg, to provide false information in order to unlawfully purchase firearms. On at least two occasions in December 2015, the defendants allegedly attempted to purchase firearms in Berkeley County, West Virginia by falsely claiming that Johnson and Marshman were purchasing the firearms for themselves. In fact, they were attempting to purchase the firearms for Franklin.
 
Franklin, Johnson, and Marshman are charged with “Conspiracy to Provide a False Statement During the Attempted Purchase of a Firearm.” Franklin is also charged with two counts of “False Statement During the Attempted Purchase of a Firearm.” Johnson and Marshman are also charged with one count of “False Statement During the Attempted Purchase of a Firearm.” The defendants face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each count.  The ATF and West Virginia State Police investigated.

In a separate matter, Christopher Lee Linn, 29, of Maryland, was indicted on one count of “False Statement in Acquisition of a Firearm,” one count of “Aggravated Identity Theft,” and two counts of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.” Linn is alleged to have stolen the identity of another individual and used that information to unlawfully pawn and then re-acquire a firearm in Berkeley County. Linn was previously convicted of a felony in Allegany County, Maryland and therefore is prohibited from possessing firearms.

Linn faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the three firearms charges and an additional two years in prison for the aggravated identify theft charge.  The matter was investigated by the ATF, the West Virginia State Police, and the Allegany County, Maryland Combined County Criminal Investigation Unit.

“The ATF Washington Field Division is dedicated to making the community safer by preventing criminals from illegally obtaining firearms,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Michael Boxler. “These investigations, in conjunction with the West Virginia State Police, show our commitment to prosecuting those who seek to purchase firearms unlawfully or on behalf of prohibited persons in West Virginia."

U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld met this week with prosecutors from Berkeley, Jefferson and Morgan County to encourage the continued collaboration between state and federal authorities in the investigation of firearms-related offenses.
 
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti is prosecuting Linn and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins is prosecuting Franklin, Johnson and Marshman on behalf of the government.
 
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jeremiah Robert Dodrill, 34, of Spelter, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months in prison for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced. Jeremiah Dodrill sold heroin in October 2014 near Spelter Park, a playground located in Harrison County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” Jeremiah Dodrill’s wife, Kasandra Faith Dodrill, 27, also of Spelter, allowed the Harrison County, West Virginia residence that she shared with Jeremiah Dodrill to be used to store and distribute heroin. She pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Maintaining Drug-Involved Premises – Aiding and Abetting.” She was sentenced today to 4 months in prison. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley 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 – Larry D. Saunders, 40, of Clarksburg, was sentenced today to 21 months in prison for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Saunders sold heroin in April 2015 near a Harrison County, West Virginia playground. He pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location – Aiding and Abetting.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted Saunders 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 – Larry Taylor, 71, of Osage, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Taylor sold cocaine in Monongalia County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in January 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Hydrochloride.”

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. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.

JEFFERSON COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA – The addition of Jefferson County, West Virginia to a federal anti-drug trafficking program will bolster efforts to loosen the grip of addiction in the Eastern Panhandle, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Yesterday, Jefferson County was designated as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).  The HIDTA program, administered by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, brings additional federal resources to regions of the United States that have been particularly impacted by drug trafficking and substance abuse, such as the Eastern Panhandle.  The program is designed to spark enhanced intelligence sharing, communication, and cooperation among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in order to reduce the influence of illegal drugs in regional communities.

Jefferson County will join Berkeley County as part of the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA, which also serves Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, and is a leader in innovative, rapid data collection and analysis. The intelligence resources provided will allow law enforcement in Jefferson County to take a data-driven approach to the dismantling of large-scale drug trafficking organizations.

“Jefferson County sits right in the middle of a major corridor for the transportation of drugs to the East Coast,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld.  “Because of its proximity to large metropolitan areas and interstate highways, and because of various economic factors, it has become an extension of the Baltimore drug market.  The HIDTA designation will help us to push back against drug traffickers and make our community a safer place to live and raise a family.”

“This is good news for Jefferson County,” noted Jefferson County Sheriff Pete Dougherty. “Becoming a HIDTA county brings a variety of important resources to our area that will help us to stop drugs from coming into our county, aid us in arresting drug traffickers, and improve the availability of treatment resources for those addicted to drugs. The new designation will allow us to take a more comprehensive approach with an increased focus on the underlying causes of illegal drug use. I am particularly excited to add an additional resource that allows us to better protect local residents.”

The HIDTA program was first established in 1988 through the Anti-Drug Abuse Act. Today, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy operates 28 HIDTAs throughout the United States, encompassing approximately 60% of the country’s population. Individuals interested in learning more about the program are encouraged to visit the Office of National Drug Control Policy website at www.whitehouse.gov/ondcp.  

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Convicted sex offender Kevin J. Wick, 43, of Wheeling, pled guilty in federal court today to traveling across state lines to engage in illicit sexual conduct with multiple minor victims, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Wick repeatedly traveled across state lines from West Virginia to Ohio throughout late 2014 and early 2015 for the purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual conduct with five minor victims all under the age of 12. On at least one occasion, Wick allegedly transported minor victims across states lines from Ohio to an apartment in West Virginia where he engaged in illicit sexual conduct with the victims.

Wick pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging him with five separate counts of “Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity.” Subject to final approval by the court, Wick will be sentenced to 312 months in prison followed by supervised release for the remainder of his lifetime.

In June 2008, Wick was convicted of “Attempted Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse” and “Indecent Assault” in the Court of Common Pleas of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. As a result of that conviction, Wick is required to register as a sex offender and is listed as a “Sexually Violent Predator.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Wheeling Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Northern District of West Virginia Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Martins Ferry, Ohio Police Department, and the Belmont County, Ohio Sheriff’s Department led the investigation.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The handling of the Budget Finance Company investigation has been transferred to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio.

According to federal officials, the transfer of the matter became necessary after the inquiry revealed that potential victims in the matter include Department of Justice employees who work or reside in the Northern District of West Virginia.  As a result, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys determined that the case should be handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Columbus instead of federal prosecutors in West Virginia.  The investigating agencies and the venue will remain the same.

All potential victims were notified of the transfer earlier this week and were encouraged to call (614) 469-5715 with any questions.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict today convicting Dustin Wade Hinckle, 30, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, of unlawful possession of stolen firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Evidence presented at trial indicated that Hinckle stole a police vehicle during a May 2015 traffic stop in Morgan County. When Hinckle was subsequently apprehended, it was discovered that he had stolen two firearms from the police vehicle. Having previously been convicted of the felony offenses of “Breaking and Entering” and “Grand Larceny” in the Circuit Court of Frederick County, Virginia, Hinckle is prohibited from possessing firearms.

Following a two day trial, a jury found Hinckle guilty of one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearms,” and one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearms.” He faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each of the two 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. Attorney Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police, the Morgan County Sheriff’s Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. 

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Curtis Jennings, 54, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, was convicted today of unlawful possession of animals for the purpose of engaging in animal fighting, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

In June 2015, Jennings was discovered in possession of multiple dogs for the purpose of participating in an animal fighting venture. He pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of Animal for Participation in Animal Fighting Venture.” 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 Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Jefferson County, West Virginia Sheriff’s Department investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Seven individuals were sentenced in federal court today for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

The defendants sentenced today participated in a drug trafficking network in which a large group of individuals repeatedly traveled across state lines to the Baltimore area to procure heroin. The individuals then returned to various locations in Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania to redistribute and sell the drug. The operation was interrupted in June 2015 by a 163-count federal indictment targeting 41 defendants.

Megan Saylor, 32, Cortney Blaire Saylor, 30, both of Martinsburg, and Cassandra Elaine Riggs, 26, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, each pled guilty to one count of “Use of Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” Cortney Saylor was sentenced today to 60 months in prison on the racketeering charge and 48 months in prison on the distribution charge. The sentences will run partially concurrently for a total of 77 months in prison. Megan Saylor was sentenced today to 10 months in prison on each count. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 10 months in prison. Cassandra Riggs was sentenced today to probation for a term of five years on each count. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of five years of probation.

Scott Andrew Ours, 33, and James Miner Jenkins, 37, both of Martinsburg, each pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Ours was sentenced today to 32 months in prison. Jenkins was sentenced today to 24 months in prison.

Lindsay Bohrer, 37, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Use of Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Heroin,” and one count of “Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” He was sentenced today to 21 months in prison on each count. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 21 months in prison.

Veronica Gladden, 32, of Martinsburg, pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” She was sentenced today to five years of probation.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Paul Camilletti prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the inquiry.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Gerald A. Swiger, 31, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced to 41 months in prison for unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Swiger was previously convicted of the felony offense of “Breaking and Entering” in the Circuit Court of Marion County, West Virginia. As a result of that felony conviction, he is prohibited from possessing firearms. He was discovered in August 2014 in unlawful possession of two firearms. He pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Felon in Possession of Firearm.”

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

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Sharod D. Nickelson, 44, of Detroit, Michigan, was convicted of oxycodone trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Nickelson conspired with other individuals to possess and sell oxycodone throughout the Ohio Valley. He pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possession with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Oxycodone.” 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 Robert McWilliams prosecuted 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.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Thomas Edward King, Jr., 43, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months in prison for cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

King sold cocaine in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base.” 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Taylor, also of the Berkeley County 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.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging Daniel Kocan, 58, and Randolph Kocan, 60, both, of Morgantown, West Virginia, with distribution of synthetic marijuana and money laundering, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Daniel Kocan owned and operated Mid Nite Adult, an adult novelty retail store located in Morgantown, West Virginia. His brother, Randolph Kocan, managed the store. The defendants are alleged to have distributed synthetic marijuana from the store and to have engaged in financial transactions using the proceeds from the sale of illegal drugs.

Both defendants are charged with:

• One count of “Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance Analogue,”
• One count of “Distribution of a Controlled Substance Analogue,”
• One count of “Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises – Aiding and Abetting,”
• One count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule I Controlled Substances,”
• One count of “Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments.”

They each face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000 on each of the drug charges and up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000 on the money laundering charge.

Daniel Kocan is further charged with two counts of “Engaging in Monetary Transaction with Cash Derived from Specified Unlawful Activity.” Randolph Kocan is further charged with five counts of “Engaging in Monetary Transaction with Cash Derived from Specified Unlawful Activity.” They each face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on 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 defendants.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force is leading the inquiry.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jesse Shayde Kenney, 25, of LaVale, Maryland, was convicted of unlawful possession of firearms today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Kenney was previously convicted of the felony offense of “Conspiracy to Commit Theft in an Amount Greater Than $500” in the Circuit Court of Allegany County, Maryland. As a result of that felony conviction, he is prohibited from possessing firearms. He was subsequently discovered in June 2015 in unlawful possession of six rifles and one shotgun.

Kenney 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 Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mineral County, West Virginia Sheriff’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Tressie Montene Duffy, 45, a doctor in Martinsburg, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court today of facilitating the unlawful distribution of narcotic painkillers through her medical practice, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Duffy operated West Virginia Weight and Wellness, Inc., a clinic located in Martinsburg. She leveraged her practice at that clinic to illegally distribute painkillers. Duffy signed blank prescription orders and allowed unlicensed members of her staff to issue prescriptions for narcotic medications to patients that had not been seen by a physician.

Duffy pled guilty today to seven counts of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Oxycodone.” She faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000 on each of the seven 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. Attorney Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia added a new resource in the effort to combat financial crime today as L. Danaë DeMasi-Lemon was appointed to the position of Assistant U.S. Attorney, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II announced.

Demasi-Lemon has been assigned to the U.S. Attorney’s Office since 2011 as a Senior Law Clerk with Forfeiture Support Associates, LLC. In that capacity, she provided critical guidance to support the office’s criminal, civil, and administrative asset forfeiture strategy.  She took the formal oath of office as an Assistant U.S. Attorney before U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey this afternoon.

U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld is “excited to have Danaë transition into her new role as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. She brings a wealth of specialized knowledge and experience dealing with complex financial matters and I know she will have an immediate impact on our office’s ability to identify and react to financial crimes in the region.”

In her new role as a federal prosecutor, Demasi-Lemon will leverage her financial expertise to prosecute complex white collar matters, fraud cases, and investigations arising under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program, a national strategy designed to disrupt and dismantle major drug trafficking organizations, money laundering schemes, and related criminal enterprises. She will also coordinate the Northern West Virginia Financial Alliance, a multi-jurisdictional financial crimes working group.

Demasi-Lemon graduated from the West Virginia University College of Human Resources and Education with a Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies and a Master of Arts in Elementary Education in 2004. She is a proud 2008 graduate of the West Virginia University College of Law. After graduating from law school, she served as Assistant General Counsel to the West Virginia State Auditor.

United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, Assistant United States Attorney L. Danaë DeMasi-Lemon, and U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey.

 

Assistant United States Attorney L. Danaë DeMasi-Lemon.

 

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Casey Tyler Nagy, 28, originally of Missouri, with distribution of LSD and unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Nagy is alleged to have distributed lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in June 2015 in Wetzel County, West Virginia while in unlawful possession of a firearm. Nagy was convicted of the felony offense of “Distribution of Marijuana” in the Criminal District Court of Orleans Parish, Louisiana. As a result of that conviction, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm. At the time of the purported drug offense in June 2015, Nagy was allegedly discovered in unlawful possession of a .303 caliber rifle.

Nagy is charged with one count of “Distribution of LSD,” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000. He is further charted with one count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm,” for which 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 David Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Martinsville Police Department are investigating.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Johnny Biggs, 36, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced in federal court for his role in manufacturing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced. 

Biggs was discovered in May 2015 in Hardy County, West Virginia in possession of materials commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine. Those materials included a bottle, coffee filters, drain cleaner, batteries, cold medicine, and fuel. Biggs pled guilty in October 2015 to one count of “Possession of Material used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine.”

Biggs was sentenced to 21 months in prison for the possession charge. He was also sentenced to an additional 15 months in prison for violating the terms and conditions of a previously imposed period of supervised release. The sentences will be served consecutively for a total of 36 months in prison. Further, Biggs was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $13,937.46.

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

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Ceressa B. Patterson, 29, of Fairview, West Virginia, was convicted of stealing funds from the United States Postal Service today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Patterson, formerly employed at the Pentress, West Virginia Post Office, embezzled nearly $2,000 from the post office by taking proceeds from the sale of money orders and stamps for her own personal use.

Patterson pled guilty today to one count of “Misappropriation of Postal Funds.” 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 Sarah Montoro prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General investigated.

United States Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Ashley Nicole Fulton, 27, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, with concealing a fugitive from arrest, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Fulton is alleged to have attempted to prevent representatives of the United States Marshals Service from discovering the whereabouts of Daniel Lee Canter, 30, of Volga, West Virginia, who had been charged with methamphetamine trafficking in the Northern District of West Virginia. Specifically, Fulton is alleged to have falsely told officers from the Marshals Service that Canter was not present at her home.

Canter was discovered in possession of methamphetamine in November 2014 in Lewis County, West Virginia. He pled guilty earlier this month 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.

Fulton is charged with one count of “Concealing Person From Arrest” and one count of “False Statement to Federal Officer.” She faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on 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 Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service is leading the inquiry.

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

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – David Wayne Doyle, 42, of Bartow, West Virginia, was convicted in federal court for his role in manufacturing methamphetamine, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Doyle was among seven individuals charged in a 29-count federal indictment in April 2014. Specifically, Doyle was discovered in possession of material commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine in Randolph County, West Virginia. Those materials included coffee filters, a mason jar, sandwich bags, and cold medicine containing pseudoephedrine.

Doyle pled guilty to one count of “Possession of Material Used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine – Aiding and Abetting.” 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 Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, the United States Forest Service, the Pocahontas County Sheriff’s Department, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Nevyou Alemu, 21, of Gaithersburg, Maryland, was sentenced today to 41 months in prison for possessing stolen firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Alemu conspired with Kristopher Seth Davis, 20, of Silver Spring, Maryland and Adesola Vanzant, 21, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, to steal firearms. In April 2014, the defendants traveled from Maryland to New Milton, West Virginia and stole approximately 14 firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition from a residence. The defendants then returned to Maryland, transporting the stolen firearms and ammunition back across state lines. Specifically, the defendants were discovered in April 2014 in Doddridge County, West Virginia in possession of two stolen firearms: a .22 caliber pistol and a 20 gauge shotgun.

Following a 2 day trial, U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley found Alemu guilty in August 2015 of one count of “Conspiracy to Possess Stolen Firearms,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Possession of Stolen Firearms.” He was sentenced today to 41 months in prison on each county. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 41 months in prison.

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

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Donald White, 41, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 140 months in prison for heroin, cocaine, and oxycodone trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

White conspired with other individuals to sell heroin, cocaine, and prescription painkillers throughout 2014 in Ohio County and Marshall County, West Virginia. White pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Conspiracy.”

Kari Jako, 26, and Christina Crupe, 33, both of Wheeling, also participated in the drug trafficking conspiracy. Jako pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of Conspiracy. She was sentenced to six months in prison. Crupe pled guilty in September 2015 to a criminal Information charging her with one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Oxycodone.” She was sentenced to probation for a term of three years.

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.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Federal and state authorities unveiled a unique partnership today designed to intensify efforts in West Virginia to combat drug trafficking and enhance prevention initiatives.

United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, and West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey announced that two attorneys from the Attorney General’s Office will be designated as special assistant United States attorneys. In their federal capacity, these attorneys will handle drug cases with a special emphasis on the prosecution of heroin trafficking organizations from Baltimore, Maryland.

“The Eastern Panhandle is an attractive market to drug dealers, especially those with a base of operation in Baltimore,” said Ihlenfeld.  “This partnership will help to address that threat and is part of our continuing efforts to leverage new resources and techniques to save lives and strengthen our response to the distribution of drugs in West Virginia.”

“Federal partnerships are critical to winning this battle,” Attorney General Morrisey said. “By joining with U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld, together our offices mount a strong offensive aimed at taking back the neighborhoods and communities where dealers peddle prescription painkillers and heroin – a deadly epidemic already killing far too many of our citizens across northern West Virginia.”

The partnership will also build upon current substance abuse prevention and education initiatives targeting West Virginia youth. These efforts will include, among other programs, interactive presentations to local schools specifically designed to highlight stories of West Virginia families that have been impacted by drug abuse and addiction.

Assistant Attorney General Lara Omps-Botteicher has been cross-designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney and was recently sworn in by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Gina M. Groh.  A second attorney from Morrisey’s office will be given the same designation in the near future.

Since 2011, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has utilized special assistants to handle cases in federal court involving drugs and violent crime.  Prosecutors from Brooke, Ohio, Harrison, Berkeley and Jefferson counties have participated in the program.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Clarence Joseph Jackson, 48, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, was convicted of financial fraud in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Jackson, also known as “Butch Jackson,” owned and operated Jackson’s Used Cars LLC in Wetzel County, West Virginia. Jackson’s business maintained an account at Union Bank, Inc. As a financial institution, Union Bank is required to file a Currency Transaction Report with the United States Department of the Treasury for any transaction in excess of $10,000. Multiple transactions are to be treated as a single transaction if the financial institution has knowledge that the individual transactions are by, or on behalf of, the same person, and the transactions cause currency in excess of $10,000 to be received or disbursed by the financial institution during any one business day. Between November 25, 2014 and December 10, 2014, Jackson attempted to avoid the aforementioned reporting requirements by dividing a large amount of cash proceeds into multiple different deposits into the business account at Union Bank.

Jackson pled guilty to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Structuring Transactions to Evade Reporting Requirements.” He faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. In pleading guilty, Jackson also agreed to pay a money judgment in the amount of $23,000. 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 Jarod Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the inquiry.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Raheem Cuffee, 31, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was convicted of heroin trafficking in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Cuffee was among 21 individuals charged in a 65-count federal indictment in November 2014. The indictment disrupted a drug distribution operation designed to transport large quantities of heroin and prescription painkillers across state lines from Pennsylvania into West Virginia for redistribution and sale. The leader of the operation, Juwan Woods, 32, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pled guilty in April 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Oxycodone within 1000 feet of a Protected Location.” Woods was sentenced to 87 months in prison in August 2015.

Specifically, Cuffee sold heroin near Wiles Hill Playground in April 2014 in Monongalia County, West Virginia. He pled guilty 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 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. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Lee Canter, 30, of Volga, West Virginia, was convicted of methamphetamine trafficking in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Canter was discovered in possession of methamphetamine in November 2014 in Lewis County, West Virginia. He pled guilty 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.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Lewis County Sheriff’s Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Adesola Vanzant, 21, of Tacoma Park, Maryland, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for unlawful possession of stolen firearms, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Vanzant was discovered in April 2014 in Doddridge County, West Virginia in possession of two stolen firearms: a .22 caliber pistol and a 20 gauge shotgun. He pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Possession of Stolen Firearms – Aiding and Abetting.”

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda Wesley and Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Students in Harrison County, West Virginia, had the opportunity to learn about drug abuse and prevention in a dynamic environment outside of the classroom this week, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Seventh and tenth grade students at Liberty High School, Robert C. Byrd High School, Lincoln High School, South Harrison High School, Mountaineer Middle School, Lincoln Middle School, and South Harrison Middle School participated in a new prevention initiative known as “Drug Prevention On The Move!” The centerpiece of the “On The Move!” program is a unique, interactive mobile classroom trailer where students learn about a variety of drugs and their effects on the body and brain. Students answer questions electronically, providing useful insight into their perceptions of various drugs. The students also experience a go-kart and other dynamic technology designed to simulate the effects of impaired and distracted driving.

“To loosen the unforgiving grip of addiction in our region, we must find creative solutions that complement and enhance traditional law enforcement efforts,” said Ihlenfeld. “Empowering young people to make informed decisions based on honest and straightforward education about illegal drugs helps reduce the demand for these illicit substances. I am proud to join Harrison County Schools to promote programs that position students to have healthy and productive futures.”

The “On The Move!” program is an initiative of Operation UNITE, a non-profit organization based in London, Kentucky. Operation UNITE works to rid communities of illegal drug use through undercover investigations, treatment, support, and education. The educational trailer is also provided in partnership with the United States Health Resources and Services Administration and the Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, an initiative of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy.

Education and prevention professionals interested in obtaining additional information or scheduling the “On The Move!” initiative in their school district are encouraged to contact Tara Tighe at the United States Attorney’s Office at (304) 234-0100.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – The Ohio County, West Virginia Sheriff’s Office is adding a new tool to its arsenal in the effort to save the lives of drug overdose victims, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, and Sheriff Pat Butler announced.

Deputies in Ohio County will soon be equipped with Narcan, a medication which reverses overdoses caused by heroin and prescription painkillers and other opioids.  Legislation passed earlier this year in West Virginia permits police officers to administer the life-saving drug, and the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office will be one of the only law enforcement agencies in the state where each officer will carry it.  Federal funding has been secured to provide for the start-up costs.

“It is important to capitalize on every opportunity we have to make our neighborhoods safer and Narcan is a powerful tool in this effort,” said Ihlenfeld.  “I’m excited to be part of a program that will save lives and give individuals struggling with addiction an opportunity to seek treatment, and I commend Sheriff Butler for adopting the policy for his department.”

All deputies with the Sheriff’s office will receive training on how to identify the symptoms of an opioid overdose and how to administer the medication.

Opioid drugs, such as prescription painkillers and heroin, are derived from morphine in the opium poppy plant. The morphine contained in these drugs binds to opioid receptors in the brain and increases the production of dopamine, which generates a euphoric feeling in the user. Opioid drugs can also slow breathing enough to deprive the brain and other vital organs of oxygen, which can lead to overdose or death. Opioid antagonist medications like Narcan, also known as Naloxone, restore normal breathing by blocking the opioid drugs.

Law enforcement agencies and community organizations interested in obtaining more information about opioid antagonist medications or scheduling training sessions regarding the legal framework surrounding these medications are encouraged to contact Tara Tighe at the United States Attorney’s Office at (304) 234-0100.

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Eight individuals were sentenced in federal court today after they admitted to participating in a multi-state heroin trafficking scheme, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

In June 2015, authorities announced a 163-count federal indictment encompassing 41 defendants, including the eight individuals sentenced today. The indictment targeted an extensive heroin trafficking network led by Brian Alexander Hall, 27, of Baltimore Maryland. Customers from locations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia traveled to the Baltimore area to purchase heroin from Hall.

Shawn Blain Bowers, 27, of Braddock Heights, Maryland, pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin.” He was sentenced today to 51 months in prison.

Javier Lewis Howard, 33, of Martinsburg, pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Heroin” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” He was sentenced today to 46 months in prison on each count. The sentences imposed today will run concurrently for a total of 46 months in prison.

Harmony Hahn, 32, of Martinsburg, pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering,” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” She was sentenced today to 37 months in prison on each count. The sentences imposed today will run concurrently for a total of 37 months in prison.

Bonnie Hanna, 34, and James Michael Ross, 32, both of Martinsburg, each pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Hanna was sentenced today to 24 months in prison. Ross was sentenced today to 15 months in prison.

Darla Kinser, 30, James Wesley Faircloth, 35, both of Martinsburg, and Teddy Edward Threadgill, 47, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, each previously pled guilty to one count of “Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” Faircloth was sentenced today to 30 months in prison. Threadgill was sentenced today to 18 months in prison. Kinser was sentenced today to 10 months in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Paul Camilletti prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the inquiry.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three individuals were sentenced in federal court today for their role in a multi-state heroin trafficking operation based in Baltimore, Maryland, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

The defendants sentenced today participated in a drug trafficking network in which a large group of individuals repeatedly traveled across state lines to the Baltimore area to procure heroin. The individuals then returned to various locations in Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania to redistribute and sell the drug. The operation was interrupted in June 2015 by a 163-count federal indictment targeting 41 defendants.

Steward Eugene Whitehead, 29, of Inwood, West Virginia, pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Heroin” and one count of “Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” He was sentenced today to 30 months in prison on each count. The sentences will run consecutively for a total of 60 months in prison.

James Francis Hansen, Jr., 48, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 24 months in prison. He pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.”

Michelle Lynn Warnick, 33, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Heroin” and one count of “Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” She was sentenced today to 15 months in prison on each count. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 15 months in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Paul Camilletti prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the inquiry.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Through a combination of civil and criminal actions, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia collected more than $3 million during fiscal year 2015, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

The office collected $1,511,869.45 from criminal actions, $1,276,920.11 from civil actions, and $625,132 from civil and criminal asset forfeitures for a total of $3,413,921.56. Additionally, the office collaborated with other United States Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $4,123,362.19 in civil cases pursued jointly with these offices.

“One critical aspect of enforcing the federal laws is to recover funds for victims of crimes and for taxpayers in our communities,” said Ihlenfeld. “Given its proximity to larger metropolitan areas and easy accessibility, the Northern District of West Virginia is particularly impacted by individuals seeking to operate criminal operations purely for financial gain. We remain committed to holding these individuals accountable.”

United States Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced today that the Justice Department collected $23.1 billion in civil and criminal actions in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015. These collections represent more than seven and a half times the approximately $2.93 billion of the Justice Department’s combined appropriations for the 94 United States Attorney’s offices and the main litigating divisions in that same period.  

"The Department of Justice is committed to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding taxpayer resources, and protecting the American people from exploitation and abuse,” said Attorney General Lynch.  “The collections we are announcing today demonstrate not only the strength of that commitment, but also the significant return on public investment that our actions deliver.  I want to thank the prosecutors and trial attorneys who made this achievement possible, and to reiterate our dedication to this ongoing work.”

The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims.  The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss.  While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims’ Fund, which distributes the funds to state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.

Nationally, the largest civil collections were from affirmative civil enforcement cases, in which the United States recovered government money lost to fraud or other misconduct or collected fines imposed on individuals and/or corporations for violations of federal health, safety, civil rights or environmental laws.  In addition, civil debts were collected on behalf of several federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Health and Human Services, Internal Revenue Service, Small Business Administration and Department of Education.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Amanda Caretti, 24, of Wheeling, was sentenced today to twelve months and one day in prison for her role in a drug trafficking scheme involving heroin, cocaine, and oxycodone, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Throughout 2014, Caretti conspired with other individuals to possess and distribute heroin, cocaine, and oxycodone in Marshall and Ohio Counties in West Virginia. She pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Schedule I and Schedule II Controlled Substances.”

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.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Jeffery L. Burdine, 38, of Hundred, West Virginia, and Devin K. Wright, 25, of Fairmont, West Virginia, with wire fraud, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Burdine owned and operated Express Towing, a towing company in Hundred, West Virginia, through which he would assist customers to rent trucks from national rental companies, such as Penske, the Avis Budget Group, and U-Haul. Burdine allegedly conspired with various customers to stage false motor vehicle accidents involving the rented trucks. Instead of calling the national rental companies and arranging for their preferred and approved towing companies to tow the damaged vehicles, Burdine allegedly towed the trucks himself or had the customers return the trucks to his business. He would then allegedly make interstate telephone calls to the national rental companies in which he would demand payment of his towing fees before he would return the truck to the rental companies.

Burdine and Wright are each charged with one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud” and two counts of “Wire Fraud.” They each face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each of the three 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. Attorney Robert McWilliams is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is leading the inquiry.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Robert Bamberger, 53, and Tammy Bamberger, 46, both of Martins Ferry, Ohio, with marijuana trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Robert and Tammy Bamberger were allegedly discovered in November 2015 in possession of marijuana in Ohio County, West Virginia. They are each charged with 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 is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, and the United States Postal Inspection Service are leading the inquiry.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael M. Stewart, 35, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced today to 130 months in prison for cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Throughout 2014 and 2015, Stewart conspired with other individuals to possess and distribute cocaine in Marshall County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in September 2015 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Base.”

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

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Sarah Beth Meckley, 33, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months in prison for arson, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

In May 2014, Meckley maliciously damaged and destroyed by means of fire and explosive materials the Chateau Royale Apartment Complex in Morgantown. She pled guilty in June 2015 to a criminal Information charging her with one count of “Arson of a Building Used in Interstate Commerce.”

As part of the sentence imposed today, Meckley was also ordered to pay restitution in the amoun of $1,246,124.36.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Fire Marshal investigated.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Tyrell Askerneese, 37, of Wheeling, was sentenced today to 151 months in prison for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Askerneese sold heroin in May 2014 in Ohio County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in August 2015 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, both HIDTA-funded initiatives, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, and the Wheeling Police Department investigated. 

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Travis Michael Butler, 21, of St. Marys, West Virginia, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for his role in a methamphetamine manufacturing operation based in Pleasants County, West Virginia, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Butler was among six individuals charged in a 19-count federal indictment in June 2015. He was discovered in Wetzel County, West Virginia in possession of pseudoephedrine, an ingredient commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine.

Butler pled guilty in August 2015 to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “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 Count Sheriff’s Department investigated.

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

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Sanders, 25, of Williamsport, Maryland, was convicted of heroin trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Sanders sold heroin in June 2014 near Martinsburg, West Virginia. He pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin.” As a result of his guilty plea, Sanders will be sentenced to 120 months in prison. 

Sanders was charged in a one count federal indictment in April 2015. Specifically, the indictment alleged that Sanders sold heroin in June 2014 in Berkeley County, West Virginia which led to the death and serious bodily injury of another individual.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti 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.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Federal and state authorities are seeking to identify anyone who suffered a financial loss as a result of dealings with Budget Finance Company, Inc. of New Martinsville, West Virginia, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
 
Individuals or businesses who may have suffered losses as a result of financial transactions with Budget Finance Company are asked to file a complaint with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia using a standardized complaint form, available here.

A community forum will be hosted by the Wetzel County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office on Tuesday, December 1, at 9:30 a.m. at the New Martinsville Municipal Building on Main Street in New Martinsville.  Information will be provided to the public at the forum, and copies of the complaint form will be provided.

Individuals can also report losses directly to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Wheeling by calling (304) 234-7721 or by sending an email to ashley.lough@usdoj.gov. 

 

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Davel Godfrey Young, 52, of Montego Bay, Jamaica, was convicted of wire fraud today in federal court, 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 today to one count of “Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud.” 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 offensebis and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Darrick D. Fleming, II, 28, of Cleveland, Ohio, was convicted of unlawful possession of a firearm today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Fleming was previously convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Franklin County, Ohio of the felony offense of “Carrying a Concealed Weapon.” As a result of that conviction, he is prohibited form possessing firearms. He was subsequently discovered in June 2015 in Ohio County, West Virginia in unlawful possession of a 9mm pistol.

Fleming pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging him 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 prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Wheeling, West Virginia Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the Investigation.

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

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher T. Gyorko, 31, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was convicted of heroin trafficking today in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Gyorko orchestrated and managed a drug trafficking operation in which heroin was transported across state lines from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania into Ohio and Marshall Counties in West Virginia, as well as locations in Ohio, for redistribution and sale. Gyrko was among six individuals charged in an 18-count federal indictment in June 2015. One additional defendant was charged in federal court by criminal Information. Six additional defendants were charged in state court.

Gyorko pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute 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 Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Drug Enforcement Administration led the Investigation.

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

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Dennison, 24, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was convicted of possessing stolen firearms today  in federal court, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

Dennison was discovered in Monongalia County, West Virginia in possession of two stolen firearms. Those firearms included a .38 caliber revolver and a .22 caliber pistol.

Dennison pled guilty today to a criminal Information charging him with one count of “Possession of Stolen 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 David Perri 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.