Southern District of West Virginia

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced that Trent S. Davis, 30, of Huntington, was sentenced to 87 months in prison and 20 years of supervised release for possession of child pornography involving prepubescent minors. Davis will also be required to register as a sex offender after his release from prison.

Davis previously admitted that on April 27, 2020, he arranged with a person he believed to be the parent to two minor females, ages 12 and 14, to travel from his job in Eleanor, Putnam County, West Virginia, to Ashland, Kentucky, in order to engage in sexual activity with both minor girls. On the way to the meeting location, Davis stopped to purchase condoms to use during the sexual activity. Davis was arrested when he arrived at the meeting location in Ashland, Kentucky. A subsequent search of his cell phone revealed numerous images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, including videos depicting the sexual abuse of toddlers and images and videos depicting sadistic conduct. A search of Davis’s residence located additional computer equipment that also contained child sexual abuse materials. 

The Ashland (Kentucky) Police Department and the FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force conducted the investigation.  United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00072.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced today that Gregory Scott Broce, 50, of Huntington, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine.  

Broce previously pled guilty and admitted that on July 6, 2019, he was driving a vehicle near 11th Avenue and 22nd Street in Huntington when a West Virginia State Police trooper pulled him over due to a report of the vehicle being stolen.  Upon a search of the vehicle, the trooper found multiple baggies containing approximately 10.7 grams of crack cocaine and 3.4 grams of heroin.  Digital scales and multiple empty baggies were located on Broce’s person. 

The West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation.  United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe is handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00020.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced that Kelly Ray Ingels, Sr., 46, of Huntington, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.  Ingels also was sentenced to 12 months in prison for the sale of a firearm to a juvenile, which is to run concurrently with his 21 month sentence.  

Ingels previously pled guilty and admitted that on May 20, 2020, he sold a firearm to a juvenile for cash and marijuana over Facebook Messenger.  Due to a subsequent investigation involving the firearm, officers obtained a search warrant for Ingels’ residence at 920 ½ 23rd Street in Huntington.  In the residence officers located approximately 11 grams of methamphetamine as well as digital scales.  In a Mirandized interview, Ingels admitted to possessing the methamphetamine to sell it, admitted he was addicted to methamphetamine at the time he possessed the gun, and admitted to selling the gun to the juvenile.

The Huntington Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00140.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced that Seneca Smith, 36, of Huntington, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine.

Smith admitted that on January 12, 2021, members of the Huntington Police Department executed a search warrant at his residence at 406 Bridge Street, Apartment 32, in Huntington.  Officers seized approximately 206 grams of heroin, 62 grams of cocaine, four sets of digital scales, and a drug press.  Smith admitted he intended to sell the heroin and cocaine.

Smith faces up to twenty years in prison when sentenced on June 1, 2021.

The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation.   United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing.  Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor is handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:21-cr-00004.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Terry L. Spradlin, 34, of Clendenin, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Spradlin admitted that on August 31, 2019, officers with the Dunbar Police Department encountered him before opening hours in Shawnee Park in Dunbar.  Spradlin admitted he possessed a firearm which had travelled in interstate commerce and which he had strapped in a holster. Spradlin further admitted he had a prior felony conviction for first degree robbery in the Circuit Court of Roane County and was prohibited from possessing the firearm.

Spradlin faces up to 10 years in prison when sentenced on May 20, 2021.

The Dunbar Police Department conducted the investigation.   United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing.  Assistant United States Attorney Negar M. Kordestani is handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00161.

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BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Devon Lamar Lockridge, 34, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for possessing with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Lockridge was previously charged as a result of a traffic stop in the city of Beckley. 

“After being caught in Beckley with approximately 800 grams of meth and 46 grams of heroin, this Detroit drug dealer will spend five years in federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “Our law enforcement partners working in the Beckley, Raleigh County area do an excellent job of protecting their communities from drug dealers like Lockridge.”

Lockridge previously admitted that on August 12, 2020, he was a passenger in a taxi in Beckley that was pulled over by police for speeding.  During the traffic stop, officers smelled marijuana.  Lockridge admitted to smoking marijuana.  A drug detecting canine also indicated to the presence of controlled substances in the taxi.  Based on this information, officers searched the car.  During the search, officers found a bag belonging to Lockridge.  In the bag, officers found almost 800 grams of methamphetamine packaged in fourteen separate bags, and approximately 46 grams of heroin.  Lockridge admitted that he knew the drugs were in that bag and that he intended to distribute the drugs to others. 

Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, (ATF), the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the Beckley Police Department, and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit.   Each agency provided additional and essential support throughout this investigation. 

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess handled the prosecution.   United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-cr-00155.

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BECKLEY, W.Va. -- United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that two federal inmates pled guilty to possessing weapons. Jerry Stewart, 31, and Elijio Perez, 30, inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) at Beckley, both admitted to possessing a handcrafted weapon, commonly known as a “shank.” 

Stewart admitted that on February 13, 2020, he possessed a handcrafted weapon known as a shank while he was an inmate at the FCI Beckley. A staff member at the prison saw Stewart place the shank on the ground in the compound at the prison after an incident with another inmate.  A staff member then recovered the weapon. The weapon was a piece of metal about six inches long, sharpened to a point on one end with a cloth handle on the other end. 

Perez admitted that on March 31, 2020, he also possessed a handcrafted weapon while he was an inmate at the FCI Beckley.   Perez admitted that a staff member found the weapon after Perez had placed it on the floor between a desk and a wall in an office at the prison.  The weapon was a piece of metal about 9 ½ inches long and sharpened to a point on one end.

Both defendants admitted that the shanks were designed and intended to be used as weapons.

Both Stewart and Perez face up to five years in prison, to be served consecutively to the sentences they are now serving. Sentencing for both defendants is set for June 11, 2021.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is handling the prosecutions. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the plea hearings. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 5:20-cr-000204(Stewart) and  5:21-cr-00001(Perez).

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Five Others Charged in Federal Criminal Complaints

Approximately 15 Pounds of Meth, 45 Firearms including a Fully Automatic Weapon, and More Than $375,000 Seized

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that a federal grand jury has returned two indictments charging 10 individuals for their roles in a drug trafficking organization (DTO), with ties to the Bloods and Gangster Disciples criminal gangs, responsible for distributing large quantities of meth in the Charleston area. Joining Stuart for the announcement were Drug Enforcement Administration Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) Jack Sparks, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) ASAC Lissa Jordan, Charleston Police Chief Tyke Hunt, MDENT Commander Ryan Higginbotham, U.S. Marshal Michael Baylous, and Appalachia HIDTA West Virginia State Coordinator Chad Napier. 

Charged in a 15 count indictment are Jermaine Williams, 20; Tyjaha Watson, 26; Memphis Ross, 20; Dante Williams, 24; Joshua Lawson, 30; and Darius Coles, 23, all of Charleston; as well as Myreo Dixon, 34, of Michigan: Elijah Figg, 21, of Huntington; and Kassie McNeeley, 21, of Lesage. The indictment charges the nine defendants with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in and around Charleston from July 2020 to February 2021.  The indictment further charges various drug and gun crimes carried out in connection with the DTO. In a separate indictment, Erica Ratliff, 36, of Charleston, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. During the course of the investigation, which spanned nearly a year, law enforcement seized approximately 15 pounds of methamphetamine, 45 firearms, including a fully automatic weapon, and more than $375,000 in cash.

In addition, Maylik Watson, 27, Devonte Lavauhn Andrews, 28, Sydni Watson, 29, and William Edward Byers II, 44, all of Charleston, and Jaquan Jeremiah Wright, 22, of New York, have been charged by federal criminal complaints in connection with this investigation.

“From Day 1, my priority has been keeping the good people of West Virginia safe.  The West Side has been a source of violence and calamity for too long. No more,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “Throughout my tenure as U.S. Attorney, I have been laser focused on improving public safety on Charleston’s West Side. My team has been committed to working with our federal, state and local partners to rid the community of violence and poison peddling. The dismantling of this network of violent meth traffickers is a big win for law enforcement and the West Side community.”

“For too long, this gang has been a blight on Charleston,” said Special Agent in Charge Todd Scott, head of DEA’s Louisville Division.  “Between the violent acts they’ve committed and the drugs they’ve distributed throughout the community, Maylik Watson and his associates have shown little to no regard for human life.  Thanks to the dedicated men and women of DEA and our law enforcement partners, the people of Charleston can sleep more soundly, knowing these people are off the streets.”

“All too often, drug dealers use firearms to further their criminal activities,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow, of the Louisville Field Division. “This drug trafficking organization threatened the safety of the Charleston community with both meth and firearms. Working with our law enforcement partners, ATF provides significant resources to prosecute these offenders and remove them from our West Virginia communities.”

The long-term investigation, dubbed the “Woo Boyz,” was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Charleston Police Department, and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police. The Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) provided critical support to the investigative agencies.

Assistant United States Attorney Monica Coleman is handling the prosecution.

The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

Please note: An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:21-cr-00032(Williams, et al.),  2:21-cr-00033(Ratliff), 2:21-MJ-00021(M. Watson), 2:21-MJ-00026(D. Andrews), 2:21-MJ-00025(J. Wright), 2:21-MJ-00045(S. Watson) and 2:21-MJ-00046(Byers).

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Michael Rhodes, 41, of Parkersburg, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.  Rhodes was prosecuted as part of Project Parkersburg – a major takedown and dismantling of a poly-drug, multi-state drug trafficking organization (DTO).  

“Project Parkersburg was a huge success,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “As a result of this lengthy investigation, a major DTO responsible for distributing significant amounts of methamphetamine in and around Parkersburg was shut down. At least 29 individuals were charged in federal and state court and 121 pounds of ICE methamphetamine, six kilograms of cocaine, 217 grams of heroin and 478 grams of fentanyl were seized.”

Rhodes previously pled guilty and admitted to distributing methamphetamine in and around Parkersburg.  At the sentencing hearing, United States District Judge Irene C. Berger noted that Rhodes had traveled from Parkersburg to Arizona and California in 2018 and that records showed calls and money transfers from Parkersburg to Sinaloa, Mexico.  The Court also found that Rhodes received methamphetamine in one and two pound quantities at a time from co-defendant Terrance McGuirk.  The Court further noted that Rhodes’ intercepted communications revealed that he owed $80,000 to his supplier and that he was distributing user and low-level dealer quantities of methamphetamine to people in Parkersburg. 

Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Parkersburg Police Department, the Dayton (Ohio) Police Department, and the Parkersburg Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force. Of the defendants charged in federal court, Terrence McGuirk, Todd Land, Jeffrey Hoyler, Nicholas Easton, T.J. Gibson, Edward Marks, Amy Rake, Marshall Polan, Troy Pastorino, Michael Holley, Colleen Moyle, Amanda Atkinson, and Michael Rhodes have been sentenced. Aurelius Edmonds awaits sentencing later this year. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Joshua Hanks and Jeremy Wolfe are handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:18-cr-00225.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Jymere Alan Pratt, 23, of Charleston, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.  He will begin serving this sentence after he has completed serving sentences on unrelated felony cases from Monongalia and Kanawha counties.  Following his release from prison on this case, he will be subject to three years of supervised release. 

Pratt previously pled guilty and admitted that he possessed a Smith and Wesson M&P Shield 9mm pistol in the early morning hours of May 24th, 2019, near the intersection of Tennessee Avenue and Randolph Street on Charleston’s west side.  Law enforcement responded to the location after learning that the vehicle was parked across the sidewalk and into the bushes of a nearby business with all the occupants unconscious.  Once officers arrived, they were able to observe Pratt, the driver, wearing a bag with a shoulder strap which he placed in the back seat prior to exiting the vehicle.  Officers later searched the vehicle, finding a pistol and several rounds of ammunition inside the bag.  Pratt was prohibited by law from possessing firearms due to a previous conviction for robbery in the second degree in Monongalia County Circuit Court on August 14, 2017.  Pratt was still on probation from that conviction when this incident occurred.       

The Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).   United States District Judge Irene Berger imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00049.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Karzell Rose, 29, of St. Albans, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for distribution of heroin. 

“I commend MDENT’s relentless efforts to shut down poison peddlers throughout Kanawha County,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Our communities are safer as a result of their work.”

Rose previously pled guilty and admitted that on January 23, 2020, he sold approximately 3 grams of heroin to a confidential informant at his residence in St. Albans. On January 28, 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant at that residence and located an additional amount of heroin, digital scales and two guns. Rose admitted that he intended to distribute the heroin. 

United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney Monica Coleman is handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00082.

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BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Keith Blakely, also known as “Bumpy,” 42, of New York, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute oxycodone, oxymorphone, and hydromorphone.  Blakely was charged as a result of a long-term, multi-state investigation known as Operation X-Nation. 

“Blakely had oxycodone, oxymorphone, hydromorphone, guns and cash,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “He’s the latest of a number of prescription pill dealers held accountable as a result of Operation X-Nation.”

Blakely admitted that between August 2017 and August 31, 2019, he participated in a drug trafficking organization that was operating in and around Princeton.   He admitted that he had telephone conversations intercepted by law enforcement officers.  During many of these conversations, he was discussing the distribution of controlled substances with other members of the drug trafficking operation, including the pricing and quantities of substances to be distributed.  Blakely also admitted to making several drug distributions to informants that he now knows were cooperating with law enforcement officers.  Lastly, he admitted that officers conducted a search on August 30, 2019 of the apartment he was living in near Bluefield.  During the search officers found large quantities of oxymorphone, oxycodone, and hydromorphone pills that Blakely intended to distribute, along with three firearms, and approximately $69,962 in cash.  As part of his plea agreement, he admitted that the cash was proceeds from his drug trafficking activity and further agreed to forfeit the cash and the firearms to the United States.   

Blakely faces up to twenty years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million when he is sentenced on June 1, 2021.  After serving a term of imprisonment, Blakely will serve at least three years of supervised release.   

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, which is composed of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, the Princeton Police Department, and the Bluefield Police Department conducted the investigation.   

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution.  The plea hearing was held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.

This case was brought under the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF).  OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy.  Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement.  The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:19-cr-00307.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Jay James Fields, 38, was sentenced to a total of 57 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin and violating his supervised release.  

“Fields was still on supervised release from a previous conviction when he was found with 37 grams of meth and 3.5 grams of heroin in his car,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “He will now be headed back to prison for nearly five more years.”

Fields previously pled guilty and admitted that on June 12, 2020, officers searched his vehicle and found approximately 37 grams of methamphetamine and 3.5 grams of heroin.  He admitted he intended to sell these substances. Fields was on supervised release when he committed the drug offense.  Fields was sentenced to 33 months for the drug offense, and in a separate proceeding, he was sentenced to 24 months in prison for violating his supervised release.  The sentences were ordered to run consecutively to one another for a total of 57 months in prison.

The Logan County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation.   Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentences.  Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00149.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that two Huntington men were sentenced to federal prison by United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

“Great work by the Huntington Police Department,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “Two more drug dealers are off of city streets.”

Desean Briscoe, 30, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for possession with the intent to distribute heroin and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Briscoe previously pled guilty and admitted that on January 23, 2020, officers executed a search warrant at his residence at 850 Bronson Court in Huntington.  Officers found two firearms.  After he was arrested and taken to the Huntington Police Department, Briscoe told officers he had heroin hidden on his person.  Officers retrieved approximately 16 grams of heroin from Briscoe.  Briscoe was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a 2015 felony conviction out of Wayne County for attempt to deliver a controlled substance.

In a separate case, Matthew Thomas, also known as “Rico Dolla,” and “PJ,” 29, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for distributing heroin and possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine base.  Thomas previously pled guilty and admitted that in May and June 2019 he sold heroin on three occasions to a confidential informant in Huntington.  Thomas also admitted that on June 19, 2019, officers with the Huntington Police Department searched his residence and found approximately 30 grams of heroin and 8 grams of cocaine base.  Officers also found a drug press.  Thomas admitted he intended to sell the heroin and cocaine base.

The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigations.  Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecutions.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 3:20-cr-00040 (Briscoe) and 3:20-cr-00137 (Thomas).

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Robert Von Wilson, 24, of Ohio, was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Wilson participated in a conspiracy that saw large quantities of methamphetamine shipped from Akron, Ohio, and sold in Huntington. 

“Wilson had 1.7 kilos of 100% pure meth,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “I commend the FBI and their law enforcement partners for shutting down this meth pipeline coming into Huntington from Akron.”

Wilson previously pled guilty and admitted that he and others involved in the conspiracy utilized a residence at 1235 25th Street in Huntington to store methamphetamine after it was shipped from Akron. Wilson also admitted that he was present at 1235 25th Street on June 6, 2019, when investigators executed a search warrant at the residence. During the search, investigators seized over 1.7 kilograms of methamphetamine.  Wilson admitted that he possessed the methamphetamine and intended to distribute it in the Huntington area.  The methamphetamine was later examined by a chemist and determined to be 100% pure.   

This joint investigation was spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).  Other agencies which participated and assisted in the investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the West Virginia State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force, the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, the United States Marshals Service, the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department, the Charleston Police Department, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Akron, Ohio Police Department, and the Brecksville, Ohio Police Department.  United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00245.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Derrick Clark, 30, of Cross Lanes, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Clark faces up to ten years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 21, 2021.   

On April 13, 2017, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on Clark’s apartment in Cross Lanes.  Inside, officers located three handguns: a black, semi-automatic 9mm Taurus; a black, .32 caliber semi-automatic Savage; and a black, 9mm semi-automatic C9 Highpoint.  Officers also located assorted ammunition. Clark was prohibited from possessing the firearms due to a previous felony conviction in Kanawha County Circuit Court for fleeing in a vehicle with reckless indifference to the safety of others.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.   Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner is in charge of the prosecution.  The plea hearing was held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:18-cr-00103.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Brandon Quane Hudson, 36, of Macon, Georgia, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

“Hudson had four previous felony convictions when he was caught with meth, crack, and a gun in Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “I commend law enforcement for their work to hold this repeat offender accountable.”

Hudson admitted that on August 20, 2019, members of the Huntington Violent Crime Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at his residence in Huntington. Officers located approximately 17.41 grams of crack cocaine and 4 grams of methamphetamine. Hudson admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine and crack cocaine for money. Officers also located a Ruger EC9s, 9mm pistol and 8 rounds of 9mm ammunition, which Hudson admitted were in his possession. Hudson also admitted that he knew he was a convicted felon and that he was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Hudson has three previous felony convictions in Georgia as well as a prior felony conviction in Cabell County Circuit Court.

Hudson faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on May 24, 2021.

The Huntington Police Department, the Huntington Violent Crime Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation.   United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing.  Assistant United States Attorney Courtney L. Cremeans is handling the prosecution.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Quandale Turk, also known as “Q”, 43, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 16 months in prison for his conviction on federal drug charges. Turk previously pled guilty to an indictment charging him with two counts of aiding and abetting the distribution of heroin.

“Throughout my tenure as U.S. Attorney, my team has worked in close partnership with law enforcement to get poison peddlers off the streets of Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “Without question, we have made a difference.”

Turk admitted that on February 16, 2017 and May 1, 2017, he directed Dahran Montgomery to distribute heroin to a confidential informant in Huntington. 

The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation.   United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:18-cr-00213.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Lamont Thomas, 42, of Detroit, Michigan, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine and a quantity of heroin.

“This Detroit drug dealer brought eight pounds of meth and some heroin into Charleston for distribution,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “Great work by the Charleston Police Department and DEA to catch Thomas soon after he got off of the bus.”

Thomas admitted that on May 14, 2020, he traveled from Detroit to Charleston by Greyhound bus.  He further admitted that he was a passenger in a vehicle stopped by officers of the Charleston Police Department after leaving the Greyhound Bus Station. When a drug K-9 alerted on Thomas’s backpack, officers searched it and found approximately eight pounds of methamphetamine and approximately 61 grams of suspected heroin.  Thomas admitted that the drugs were his and that he intended to distribute the controlled substances.

Thomas faces a minimum of five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when sentenced on May 17, 2021.

The Charleston Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation.  Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., presided over the hearing.  Assistant United States Attorney Monica Coleman is handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00198.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Darrell Lowers, 39, of New York, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of ammunition.

Lowers previously pled guilty and admitted that on January 21, 2020, when officers with the Charleston Police Department were dispatched to a residence in response to a report of shots fired, he was detained inside the residence and .45 caliber Winchester ammunition was recovered from his truck. Lowers was on parole out of New York at the time he committed this offense. He has prior felony convictions for second degree burglary in 2013, third degree arson in 2011, and attempted second degree assault in 2007. These convictions all occurred in New York.

The case was investigated by the Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Nick Miller is handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00118.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. — United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced he will resign as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia effective February 28, 2021.  Stuart’s resignation letter to President Joseph Biden is attached.

2021.0212_-_mbs_to_joe_biden_re_resignation_0.pdf

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BECKLEY, W.Va. - United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Troy Covington, 20, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Beckley, was sentenced to 12 months in prison, to run consecutively to the sentence he currently is serving, for possessing a weapon at the facility. He also was sentenced to three years of supervised release following his imprisonment.

“For possessing a makeshift weapon in the prison, Covington added another year to his prison stay,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “I commend the staff of the  Federal Bureau of Prisons for their vigilant efforts to maintain a secure environment within correctional facilities.”

Covington admitted that on February 8, 2020, he possessed a handcrafted weapon, commonly referred to as a “shank,” while he was an inmate at the FCI Beckley.   The “shank” was a four inch piece of plexiglass sharpened to a point on one end, with a handle made of tape on the other end.  A staff member with the FCI Beckley found the shank concealed in a pair of shorts Covington was wearing. Covington admitted that the shank was designed and intended to be used as a weapon.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-cr-00178.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that three defendants charged in Operation Second Wave made appearances in federal court.  Gregory Eugene Woods, 43, of Dunbar, was sentenced to a total of 184 months in federal prison.  He was sentenced as a career offender to 160 months for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, followed by a consecutive term of  24 months based upon his supervised release violation. Jason Michael Terrell, 37, of Mt. Carbon, and Jimmy Lee Coleman, 35, of Falls View, pled guilty conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.  Woods, Terrell, and Coleman are three of the 14 defendants charged as a result of a long-term investigation known as “Second Wave,” which dismantled a poly-drug network operating in Kanawha and Fayette counties.

“Operation Second Wave shut down a significant poly-drug network.  Kanawha and Fayette counties are no doubt safer as a result,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “I commend all of the federal, state and local law enforcement agencies that worked on this case. It is through their relentless, collaborative efforts that we can hold drug dealers accountable for their crimes.” 

Woods previously pled guilty and admitted that on April 21, 2020, the Charleston Police Department stopped him when he was on his way to deliver cocaine to Terrell.  A search of Woods’ vehicle resulted in the seizure of over two ounces of cocaine.  He was on federal supervised release at the time of the stop based upon being convicted in 2015 in the Southern District of West Virginia of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and use of a telephone to facilitate drug trafficking.  Woods had additional previous felony convictions including three convictions for possession with intent to deliver marijuana, one conviction for possession with intent to deliver Ecstasy, and another conviction for unlawful wounding.

Terrell admitted distributing multiple pounds of methamphetamine along with quantities of heroin and cocaine in and around Montgomery between July 2019 and August 26, 2020.  He further admitted traveling with two co-defendants to Columbus, Ohio where they purchased approximately two pounds of methamphetamine and brought it back to West Virginia to sell.  Coleman admitted to selling more than a pound of methamphetamine between January and August 2020. 

Coleman faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on April 26, 2021.  Terrell faces at least ten years and up to life in prison when he is sentenced on May 17, 2021.

Other defendants, including Larry Terrence Martin, Sammy Joe Fragale, Sr., and Sammy Joe Fragale II, have also pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Carol Lynn Belton, Steven Matthew Bumpus, Roger Jarea Drake, Rashawn Akmed Miller, Craig Redman, Tonya Simerly, and Ronald Lee Thomas III are scheduled for trial on April 27, 2021.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force (CWVDTF), the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department, the Charleston Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) who led the investigation of Sammy Joe Fragale, Sr., and Sammy Joe Fragale II, who were also prosecuted as part of the Second Wave investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearings.  Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks is handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:20-cr-00153 (Woods) and 2:20-cr-00154 (Terrell et al).

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. –United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Breyanna Wilkerson, of Beckley, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin. Wilkerson faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on May 10, 2021.

“Wilkerson was caught in Huntington with 91 grams of heroin and fentanyl,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “There is no doubt that by seizing these dangerous controlled substances, the excellent work of law enforcement prevented a number of overdoses.”

Wilkerson admitted that on May 2, 2019, officers searched her hotel room at the Days Inn on Route 60 in Huntington.  Wilkerson told the officers everything in the room belonged to her.  Officers found 91 grams of heroin and fentanyl in the nightstand. 

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West conducted the investigation.  United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing.  Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor is handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00205.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Luis Eduardo Martinez-Torres, 23, of Mexico, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for aiding and abetting possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine.

“Deadly - meth and black tar heroin,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “Great work by law enforcement to intercept these drugs and remove poison peddlers from the streets of Huntington.”  

Officers executed a search warrant on June 5, 2019 in Huntington.  Martinez-Torres and other individuals were in the home at the time of the search warrant.  Officers found methamphetamine and heroin in the home.  Martinez-Torres previously pled guilty and admitted that he aided and abetted other individuals in possessing with the intent to distribute 340 grams of methamphetamine and 453 grams of black tar heroin in Huntington. 

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department conducted the joint investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00281.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Thomas Drew Bess, 39, of Florida, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

“It’s 30 years in prison for Bess who mailed more than 18 pounds of meth from Los Angeles to Charleston,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “It was the great teamwork between the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the DEA, the U.S. Postal Service-OIG, the West Virginia National Guard and my office that kept this shipment of 96% pure meth from being sold throughout our communities.”

Bess previously pled guilty and admitted that on September 1, 2019, he flew from Florida to Los Angeles, California. While there, Bess mailed a package that contained approximately 18.25 pounds of methamphetamine to Charleston. The package was picked up by a John Harvey Bush, Jr., and the methamphetamine was intended to be sold in the Charleston area. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) intercepted the package on September 4, 2019. Upon obtaining a search warrant for the package, they discovered over 18 pounds of methamphetamine inside. The majority of the methamphetamine was removed, except for 11.2 grams, which remained inside the package in order to conduct a controlled delivery. As law enforcement was delivering the package, the National Guard provided helicopter surveillance of the area. Bush was recorded driving to the residence and taking the package from the front porch. He then drove the package to his girlfriend’s residence, where he unloaded and opened the package, and discovered only 11.2 grams of methamphetamine. He attempted to flush the shipping label to the package. Shortly afterwards, law enforcement knocked on the front door of the girlfriend’s residence. Bush saw them through the window and was arrested as he tried to flee out the back door. Bush’s cell phone was seized and searched pursuant to a federal search warrant, where it became apparent that Bess had told Bush of the contents of the package, its tracking number, and when it would be arriving.  The methamphetamine was sent to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) laboratory, where it tested 96% pure. Bess was subsequently arrested in Florida and brought to the Southern District of West Virginia on an indictment. Bess’ phone was searched pursuant to a federal warrant, wherein evidence of drug trafficking and distribution were discovered. Bush pled guilty and was sentenced to 51 months in prison.  

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the United States Postal Service - Office of Inspector General, and the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) conducted the investigation. The West Virginia National Guard assisted law enforcement with the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00024.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Eddie McKinney, 33, of Mt. Hope, pled guilty to distribution and attempted distribution of prepubescent child pornography.

“Child pornographers like McKinney pose grave danger to our most vulnerable,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “The work of the FBI and their federal, state and local law enforcement partners is critical to removing these offenders from our communities and keeping West Virginia’s children safe.”

McKinney admitted that on December 3, 2015, he distributed child pornography using peer-to-peer file sharing software. He admitted that he knowingly possessed and distributed to others images depicting a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Law enforcement recovered over 600 images of child pornography from his home, including images involving sadistic and masochist conduct.

McKinney faces a minimum of five years in prison and up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on May 6, 2021.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.  Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing.  Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White is handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00142.

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Office Collections over Budget

Exceed $18.4 Million over Two Year Period

Collections Exceed Budget Over Period by more than 135%

CHARLESTON, W.Va. –  United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that his office collected $9,244,423.94 in FY 2020 and $22,761,541.52 in FY 2019, an amount more than $18.4 million over his office’s entire annual appropriated budgets for the same period. Of this amount, $29,082,086.10 was collected in civil actions and $2,923,879.33 was collected in criminal actions.  The operating budget for the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia during the time period was approximately $13.6 million.  Total collections exceeded the office’s budget by more than 135%.

“I am very proud of the incredible efforts of my team. During the last two fiscal years, our efforts brought in more than $18.4 million over the cost of all operations. In private sector terms, that’s called ‘remarkably profitable.’  A return for taxpayers in excess of 135% over two years is a return for which even the best companies would be proud, but we don’t do this to make a profit. We don’t do this to make money. We do this to deliver justice to victims, the taxpayers and our citizens,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “The $18.4 million and 135% return represents a remarkable victory for victims and taxpayers. The $32 million collected by my office over the last two fiscal years demonstrates the significant return on investment that our work delivers.  The substantial amount only includes the actual amounts collected and not the full amount of monies due as a result of our great work.  Restitution often takes many years to realize. The taxpayers are the beneficiaries of great teamwork by my entire team and our federal, state and local law enforcement partners.  We all share a commitment to ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used prudently and properly and that wrongdoers are held accountable for financial losses resulting from their crimes.”

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.

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 healthcare, 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, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on behalf of Medicare and Medicaid, the Internal Revenue Service, the Small Business Administration and the Department of Education.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. 

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that two felons were sentenced to federal prison for gun crimes.

John Brady Studenic, 33, of Parkersburg, a member of the Pagans Motorcycle Club, was sentenced to 42 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Upon release, he will be under supervised release for an additional three years.  The United States requested, and the Court imposed, a sentence above the range recommended by the United States Sentencing Guidelines for this case due to Studenic’s history of violence. Studenic previously admitted that he was riding a motorcycle on 7th Street in Parkersburg when an officer with the Parkersburg Police Department attempted to perform a traffic stop on him for running a red light at the intersection of 7th Street and Park Avenue.  Once the officer activated his overhead lights and siren, Studenic fled eastbound on 7th Street toward Core Road.  In the process, he was travelling approximately 90 miles per hour in a 35 mile per hour zone.  Studenic passed multiple vehicles using either a turning lane or the oncoming lane, and ran an additional red light at the intersection of 7th Street and Fairview Avenue during the pursuit.  Eventually, he wrecked the motorcycle on Core Road and was taken into custody following a brief physical struggle which he initiated by charging the arresting officer.  Upon being apprehended, his person was searched and a loaded Taurus 9mm semi-automatic pistol was located in his waistband.  Additional ammunition as well as approximately 20 grams of methamphetamine and a small amount of marijuana were also found in Studenic’s possession.  Studenic was not legally permitted to possess a firearm due to a previous conviction for the felony offense of malicious assault on September 22, 2010, in Wood County Circuit Court.  That prior conviction is the result of Studenic shooting another individual.   The Parkersburg Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).   United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe is handling the prosecution.

Ronald Sayles, 43, of Charleston, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. He also was sentenced to a concurrent term of eight months in prison for violating terms of his supervised release related to an underlying federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Sayles admitted that on September 18, 2020, he was a passenger in a vehicle that crashed on Washington Street, East, in Charleston. When responding officers conducted a pat down of Sayles, they located a Ruger LC9, 9mm pistol in his jacket pocket.  Sayles admitted to police officers that he knew he was prohibited from possessing the gun because of two prior felony convictions.  In 2016, Sayles was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia and, in 2002, he was convicted in Kanawha County Circuit Court of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.  Sayles was still serving a term of federal supervised release in connection with the 2016 conviction. The Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation.  United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Negar Kordestani handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:20-cr-00165 and 2:20-cr-00181.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Darrell Gillespie, of Smyrna, Georgia, was sentenced to 265 months in federal prison for his role in a conspiracy to commit armed home invasions of drug dealers.  Gillespie was convicted after a nearly three week jury trial in January 2015. The federal jury found Gillespie and his co-defendant, Jamaa Johnson, 36, of Wytheville, Virginia, guilty of conspiracy to commit armed robbery and using firearms in crimes of violence, as well as obstruction of justice charges. Johnson previously was sentenced to over 19 years in prison for his role in the conspiracy.

“Gillespie and his co-conspirators committed a string of armed home invasions, wreaking havoc in multiple states for months,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “I commend the work of the investigative agencies and my team that got this violent crew off our streets.”

The conspiracy involved armed robberies dating back to the fall of 2011 in Pittsburgh. Gillespie, joined by others involved in the conspiracy, traveled to Pittsburgh to rob a drug dealer. After the robbery, the men came back to Charleston to split up marijuana stolen in the robbery. Over the next four months, Gillespie, Johnson, or their co-conspirators, participated in six more robberies in West Virginia and Virginia. All involved firearms, and during a January 18, 2012, robbery in Charleston, the victim was shot in the leg and stabbed. 

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the South Charleston Police Department, and the Charleston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Monica D. Coleman handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:13-cr-00091.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Ralph Weathington, Jr., 28, of Charleston, formerly of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 188 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine, distribution of fentanyl, and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl, and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.  Weathington was previously found guilty of each crime by a jury of his peers.  Following his release from prison, he will serve 10 years of supervised release.    

“Weathington was dealing meth, fentanyl and cocaine in Charleston,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “As a result of the excellent work of DEA, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Charleston Police Department, MDENT and my prosecutors, he won’t be peddling poisons in our community any longer.”

Evidence presented during the jury trial established that on January 22, 2018, the defendant met with a confidential informant working with the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Charleston and sold the informant approximately two ounces of methamphetamine. Later, on January 30, 2018, the defendant again met with a confidential informant on the West Side of Charleston and sold the informant approximately 3.5 grams of fentanyl. Finally, on May 22, 2019, the defendant was present at an apartment in Charleston when officers with the United States Marshals Service and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office discovered him holding a gray article of clothing that appeared to be wrapped around another object. The defendant was standing next to an open window as he held this object, and he threw it out the window when ordered by an officer to show his hands. An officer with the Charleston Police Department observed several objects falling from the window to the ground, and moved to secure the evidence which was found to be approximately 111 grams of methamphetamine, 18 grams of fentanyl, 27 grams of cocaine, United States currency, a silver weight used to calibrate a digital scale, a small shoebox and a gray sweatshirt. An officer with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) arrived on scene and collected the drug-related evidence. Then, with the assistance of other officers, the apartment was searched and 18 additional grams of fentanyl were located along with a semi-automatic pistol, two digital scales and additional United States currency.   

The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Charleston Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy B. Wolfe and Monica D. Coleman handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:19-cr-00174.

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Defendant’s husband also pled guilty in January for his role in the conspiracy to fake her death at the New River Gorge

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Julie M. Wheeler received a sentence of 12 months and one day for her role in a federal conspiracy to obstruct justice.  Wheeler’s sentence was ordered to be served consecutively to her 42 month sentence previously imposed for her federal health care fraud conviction.  The consecutive sentence increases Julie Wheeler’s total sentence of incarceration to 54 months of federal incarceration. In a separate criminal hearing last month, Rodney Wheeler pled guilty to the federal felony offense of conspiracy to obstruct justice.  Rodney Wheeler faces up to five years of incarceration, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release when he is sentenced on April 5, 2021. 

“Julie Wheeler faked a traumatic death to avoid her judgment day with the courts. While she was found hiding in a closet she was also hiding from justice. The scheme put many lives at risk and wasted valuable resources,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “By conspiring to avoid her federal sentence for health care fraud, she, with the aid of her husband, only made matters worse. Julie added another year to her sentence and Rodney now has a federal felony conviction for which he will soon be sentenced.” 

In a case that garnered national media attention, Rodney and Julie Wheeler conspired to fake her death at the New River Gorge to avoid her federal court sentencing for health care fraud.  To fake her death, Rodney Wheeler and another family member placed a 911 call on May 31, 2020, claiming Julie Wheeler had fallen from the Grandview Overlook in the New River Gorge in West Virginia.  The overlook is a steep cliff with a series of ledges leading down to the New River.  This 911 call prompted a massive search and rescue operation with hundreds of volunteers, law enforcement, and professional search and rescue personnel looking for Julie Wheeler at the base of the overlook and the surrounding area. Helicopters, rescue dogs, and repelling experts also scoured the area looking for her. Additional false statements were given to state and federal investigators by Rodney Wheeler as part of the conspiracy, including statements to National Park Service officers and the United States Probation Office.  The purpose of these statements was to continue the Wheelers’ ruse that she had fallen and was missing. In reality, she was hiding in her own home and planning to go into permanent hiding with her husband.

After two days of searching, the West Virginia State Police located Julie Wheeler hiding in a closet inside her home.  Once removed from her closet, Rodney and Julie Wheeler were both taken into custody.  In statements to state and federal investigators,  Rodney Wheeler and Julie Wheeler admitted they conspired to fake her disappearance to avoid Julie Wheeler’s pending federal sentencing in a health care fraud case. 

Instead of avoiding her federal sentencing hearing for health care fraud, Julie Wheeler was incarcerated and subsequently sentenced on June 30, 2020, to 42 months in prison and three years of supervised release for health care fraud relating to her overbilling a VA program for spina bifida care.  She was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $289,055.07 for the overbilling scheme.  The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG), the Office of Veterans Affairs (VA), and the United States Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) conducted the investigation of the underlying health care fraud. 

The National Park Service and the West Virginia State Police conducted the criminal investigation concerning the conspiracy to obstruct justice.  The United States Probation Office in the Southern District of West Virginia also conducted an independent investigation of Julie Wheeler’s disappearance and conduct related to the obstruction. The Raleigh County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office also assisted with the investigation and the Wheelers are both presently charged with numerous felony and misdemeanor offenses in Raleigh County Circuit and Magistrate Courts relating to the false reporting of an emergency. 

Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the plea and sentencing hearings.  Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is handling the prosecutions.

The investigation was also conducted by members of the United States Attorney’s Healthcare Fraud Abuse, Recovery and Response Team (ARREST), an innovative approach linking civil and criminal enforcement efforts together in a comprehensive attack on healthcare fraud.   United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced the formation of ARREST in February 2019.  All health care related cases in the Southern District of West Virginia, whether they are the subject of criminal or civil investigation or enforcement, are directed through ARREST.  Included within the purview of the team are the Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit, Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Force, Medicare and Medicaid Fraud, and Asset Forfeiture efforts related to all healthcare matters.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-cr-00145.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Marvin Keaton, 39, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine.

“Meth is a scourge on our communities,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “But each and every day, in partnership with law enforcement, we take meth dealers off the streets and hold them accountable.”

Keaton admitted that on February 25, 2020, he met a person on the 1900 block of 12th Avenue in Huntington and sold them 10.159 grams of methamphetamine in exchange for $200. On March 3, 2020, Keaton sold the same person 20.837 grams of methamphetamine in exchange for $400. 

The Huntington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation.   United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00112.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Bryan Lee Ogle II, 33, of Sevierville, Tennessee, was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Ogle has an extensive criminal history. This case represents his 13th felony conviction.  He also has been convicted of a total of 25 misdemeanors.   

“For his 13th felony conviction, Ogle received a sentence of 210 months – more than 17 years – in federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “Felons with guns pose a serious risk to public safety, especially when they have significant criminal histories.  Law enforcement officers put themselves in harm’s way every single day to protect their communities from dangerous offenders like Ogle.  Fortunately, when Ogle shot the Charleston police officer, the bullet was deflected by the officer’s body worn camera.”

Ogle previously admitted that he was driving a vehicle near Montgomery on February 8, 2018, when officers with the Montgomery Police Department attempted to perform a traffic stop on it. In response, Ogle pulled over momentarily but then began to flee at a high rate of speed. The pursuit reached speeds of approximately 110 mph in a residential and business area with a 35 mph speed limit. Eventually, the defendant lost control of the vehicle and struck a hillside on the side of the roadway. As officers attempted to open the driver’s side door and remove the defendant, he put the vehicle in reverse and attempted to back away. The vehicle then struck a utility pole and was immobilized. An officer then stood in front of the vehicle and gave the defendant commands to stop the vehicle. Ogle then attempted to rev the engine and move forward to strike the officer. After realizing that the vehicle would not move, the defendant exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. He was caught by officers and a physical struggle ensued, with the defendant striking and biting the involved officers. The defendant also attempted to grab and remove one of the officer’s firearms during the struggle. During the struggle, the defendant indicated that he possessed a firearm and attempted to draw it. Once the defendant was secured in handcuffs, a loaded Smith and Wesson 9mm semi-automatic pistol was located. Ogle admitted that he possessed the firearm knowing that he previously had been convicted of several felony offenses in Tennessee.

After Ogle’s arrest in Montgomery, he was taken to Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) General Division for medical treatment. While in custody at CAMC, Ogle attempted to escape from police, with the pursuit ending in a stairwell. When police officers attempted to place Ogle in custody, he knocked a Montgomery Police officer off of the stairs causing injuries to the officer. While the officer was down, Ogle gained control of his firearm and shot a Charleston Police officer. The bullet was deflected by the officer’s body worn camera. Ogle pled guilty in Kanawha County Circuit Court to attempted murder, escape, assault in the commission of a felony and battery and was sentenced to the maximum sentence of six to 30 years in state prison. 

The Montgomery Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe handled the prosecution.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:18-cr-00057.

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BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Tyrice Perkins, 24, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Beckley, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for possessing a weapon at the correctional facility.  This sentence is to run consecutively to the sentence he currently is serving. He also was sentenced to three years of supervised release following his imprisonment.

“Inmates that possess shanks or weapons in federal correctional facilities in this district will be prosecuted,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “It’s 12 more months in prison for Perkins.”

Perkins admitted that on February 9, 2020, he possessed a handcrafted weapon known as a shank. The shank was a 6 ½ inch piece of metal sharpened to a point on one end with a handle on the other end.  A staff member at the prison saw Perkins drop the shank in the chow hall.  The staff member then recovered the weapon. Perkins admitted that the shank was designed and intended to be used as a weapon.

The Federal Bureau of Prisons conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-cr-00179.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Emmanuel Lee Whitfield, 25, of Huntington, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for distribution of heroin.

“Another Huntington heroin dealer convicted and sentenced to federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “I am proud of the relentless efforts of Huntington law enforcement to rid their streets of poison peddlers.”

Whitfield previously pled guilty and admitted that on March 7, 2019, he distributed approximately 5 grams of heroin to a confidential informant.  This distribution of heroin occurred in controlled buy near 5 Washington Court in Huntington.

The Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force and the Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00107.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Douglas Wesley, 32, of Charleston, was sentenced to six months in federal prison for walking away from a halfway house earlier this year.  The six month term of imprisonment is to run consecutively to any discharged portion of the sentence in Wesley’s underlying 2012 federal gun conviction.

“If our U.S. Marshals are looking for you, they will find you,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “Anyone in federal custody that attempts to escape can expect the result to be more prison time.”

Wesley previously pled guilty and admitted that in late June 2020, he left Dismas Charities, Inc., a Bureau of Prisons residential reentry facility, without permission and did not return. He had been confined at Dismas because of a previous federal gun crime conviction.

The U.S. Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Negar Kordestani handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00131.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Jordan Dewayne Jeffrey, 24, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced to 52 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

“Jeffrey is the latest defendant sentenced for his participation in this meth trafficking network that brought significant amounts of meth into our area from Akron,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “As a result of the excellent work of many law enforcement agencies, as well as members of my staff, we have made Huntington and Charleston safer by removing dangerous drug dealers from our communities.”

Jeffrey previously pled guilty and admitted that between the fall of 2018, and May of 2019, he participated in a conspiracy with multiple individuals to distribute methamphetamine in the Southern District of West Virginia.  During the conspiracy, large quantities of methamphetamine were transported from Akron to the Huntington area for distribution.  Jeffrey stayed at a residence located at 1235 25th Street in Huntington where the methamphetamine would be stored upon arrival in Huntington.  Jeffrey admitted that when customers contacted members of the conspiracy, he would meet the customers at various locations in Huntington and Charleston to deliver the methamphetamine.  For example, Jeffrey admitted that on May 20, 2019, he delivered approximately one pound of methamphetamine to a customer in Charleston after the customer contacted another member of the conspiracy and arranged the transaction. 

This joint investigation was spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).  Other agencies which participated and assisted in the investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Ona Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the West Virginia State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force, the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, the United States Marshals Service, the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department, the Charleston Police Department, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Akron, Ohio Police Department, and the Brecksville, Ohio Police Department.  United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00245.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. –  United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Family Discount Pharmacy, Inc. (“FDP”), which operated a pharmacy in Mount Gay, Logan County, has agreed to pay civil monetary penalties to resolve allegations that the pharmacy violated the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) by filling illegitimate prescriptions.  FDP ceased operating in 2019 during the course of the federal investigation.  Pursuant to the terms of the settlement agreement, FDP agreed to pay $310,000 to resolve allegations that it had filled prescriptions for controlled substances that were not valid at its Mount Gay location between January 2013 and December 2018.  During this time, the United States contends that FDP filled prescriptions for opioids and other controlled substances “that were not written for a legitimate medical purpose by practitioners acting in the usual course of their professional medical practices and FDP’s Pharmacist in Charge, Earl Claycomb, filled said prescriptions knowing or having reason to know that the prescriptions were not written for a legitimate purpose, in violation of 21 C.F.R. § 1306.04(a) and 21 U.S.C. § 842(a)(1),” according to the settlement agreement.

The CSA prohibits the distribution or dispensing of a controlled substance without a valid prescription.  A valid prescription for a controlled substance must be issued for a legitimate medical purpose by an individual practitioner acting in the usual course of his or her practice. The investigation indicated that the pharmacist-in-charge at the pharmacy knew or had reason to know that patients had presented illegitimate prescriptions that should not have been filled. 

“When pharmacies fail to follow the requirements of the CSA it significantly contributes to the opioid epidemic, causing great harm to our citizens and communities,” stated United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “This settlement agreement demonstrates that my Office, the DEA and other federal, state and local law enforcement partners, are using all tools available to address the opioid crisis.”

“The Drug Enforcement Administration will not allow unscrupulous pharmacies to prioritize financial gain over the well-being of patients entrusted to their care,” said Todd Scott, special agent in charge of DEA’s Louisville Division, which serves West Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee.  “A pharmacist who fills illegitimate prescriptions is no different from a drug dealer on the street.” 

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Alan G. McGonigal and Gregory P. Neil.

The settlement is a result of the United States Attorney’s Healthcare Fraud Abuse, Recovery and Response Team (ARREST), an innovative approach linking civil and criminal enforcement efforts together in a comprehensive attack on the opioid epidemic and healthcare fraud. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. 

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Niki Renee Maynard, 50, of Huntington, was sentenced to 72 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. 

“Maynard will spend the next six years in prison for conspiring with Akron sources to distribute large amounts of meth in Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “I commend the many federal, state and local law enforcement agencies that conducted the joint investigation that dismantled this drug network.”

Maynard previously pled guilty and admitted that between the fall of 2018 and September of 2019, she participated in a conspiracy with multiple individuals to distribute methamphetamine in the Huntington area.  During the conspiracy, Maynard repeatedly obtained quantities of methamphetamine which were transported from Akron to Huntington.  Maynard relied on multiple individuals from Akron to deliver the methamphetamine to her and Maynard would in turn distribute the methamphetamine to various customers in Huntington.  Maynard also admitted that she permitted others to sell methamphetamine from her residence located at 1223 26th Street in Huntington and that she was responsible for distributing up to 500 grams of methamphetamine during the conspiracy. 

This joint investigation was spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).  Other agencies which participated and assisted in the investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Ona Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the West Virginia State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force, the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, the United States Marshals Service, the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department, the Charleston Police Department, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Akron, Ohio Police Department, and the Brecksville, Ohio Police Department.  United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00245.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Harold Arthur Thompson, 30, of Huntington, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin.

“Great job by the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department and the West Virginia State Police in conducing this traffic stop and interdicting the heroin and meth Thompson had in his possession,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “These dangerous drugs would have been distributed in our communities if not intercepted by law enforcement.”

Thompson admitted that on September 14, 2019, he was in a vehicle that was pulled over by law enforcement. Thompson admitted that during that traffic stop, he exited the vehicle and attempted to conceal a plastic bag containing 2.9 grams of methamphetamine and 2.5 grams of heroin by removing it from his pants pocket and kicking it underneath the vehicle. Thompson admitted to possessing the heroin and methamphetamine and that both substances were packaged in individual plastic bags for sale. He also admitted that, in addition to the drugs, he possessed digital scales and packaging materials.

Thompson faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on May 3, 2021.

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Department and West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation.  United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing.  Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Cremeans is handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00151.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Terry Alan Blackmon, Jr., 34, of Michigan, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for distribution of heroin.

“Another out of state heroin dealer has been sentenced to prison for peddling poisons in Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “We have maintained our focus on ridding our communities of drug dealers like Blackmon.”

Blackmon previously pled guilty and admitted that on September 24, 2019, he distributed approximately 2 grams of heroin to a confidential informant.  This distribution of heroin occurred in controlled buy at a residence at 523 6th Street in Huntington.

Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the FBI’s Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) Task Force, the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the West Virginia State Police.

United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00290.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Holly Urlahs, also known as Holly Anderson, 32, of Elkview, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for bank fraud and forging a judge’s signature.  Urlahs will also serve a three year term of supervised release upon completion of her prison sentence.

“Urlahs committed very serious crimes,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “She spun a tangled web of deceit for which she will now spend the next two years in federal prison.”

Urlahs previously pled guilty and admitted that she falsely claimed to have sued Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) and was expecting a large financial settlement from her lawsuit. Under these false pretenses, she set out to defraud financial institutions and an insurance company. As part of her fraudulent scheme, Urlahs altered a $100 cashier’s check to reflect an amount over $8.4 million. She also provided fake documents with forged signatures and a personal check for $1 million, although she knew she did not have sufficient funds in her account, to an insurance company to obtain an annuity contract. Urlahs’ check was returned for insufficient funds.

The investigation was conducted by the West Virginia State Police-Bureau of Criminal Investigations and the West Virginia Insurance Commissioner’s Special Investigations Division. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen Robeson handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00125.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. –  United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Samantha Miller, 36, of Charleston, was sentenced to one year in federal prison for the felony offenses of bank fraud and possession of stolen mail matter. After Miller completes her sentence of federal incarceration, she will be placed on supervised release for a term of five years.  Miller is also required to pay restitution back to the victim banks in the amount of $1,965.51.

“Miller stole a number of checks from the mail and attempted to alter and cash them for herself,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “In addition to her one year prison sentence, she will also pay restitution to the victims for the almost $2,000 she fraudulently received through her scheme.”

Samantha Miller previously pled guilty and admitted that in 2018 she traveled to various banks in Kanawha County and she presented stolen checks that had been altered in an attempt to cash them.  On January 28, 2018, she successfully cashed an $800 check to obtain money that did not belong to her and that was not under her lawful control.  On February 9, 2018, she was caught in possession of a number of stolen checks that had been taken from the United States mail.  Samantha Miller knew that she possessed stolen mail matter and was in the process of further altering these checks to attempt to cash them.  In total, she received nearly $2,000 that did not belong to her through manipulating checks that had been stolen from the U.S. mail.

The United States Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Dunbar Police Department, and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes handled the prosecution. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:19-cr-00114.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Ricky V. McLaughlin, 63, of Belpre, Ohio, pled guilty to wire fraud.  McLaughlin faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on March 17, 2021.

“What a fraudster,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “For more than four years, McLaughlin defrauded multiple customers of a significant amount of money. If not for the efforts of the Parkersburg Police Department, McLaughlin probably still would be ripping off classic car lovers.”

McLaughlin operated the McLaughlin Motor Car Museum located in Parkersburg. McLaughlin sold collector cars, including various Pontiac Trans Am classic cars to individuals, and customers would send their collector cars to McLaughlin for restoration.  Sometimes customers would buy collector cars from McLaughlin and the Motor Car Museum and then ask him to resell these collector cars at a later date on consignment. McLaughlin admitted that for more than four years, he stole money and defrauded multiple customers through a wire fraud scheme. As part of his fraud activities, McLaughlin admitted he would sometimes sell individuals various Pontiac Trans Am classic cars, but refused to provide the customers with either the titles to the vehicles or the vehicles themselves. At other times, McLaughlin would sell the same Pontiac Trans Am to multiple customers or sell Pontiac Trans Am cars on consignment, but refused to remit the sale proceeds of the collector cars to the car owners.

Throughout his scheme, McLaughlin defrauded multiple individuals of hundreds of thousands of dollars.  As part of his plea agreement, he agreed to pay at least $150,000 in restitution.

The Parkersburg Police Department conducted the investigation.  United States District Court Irene Berger presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen Robeson is handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00182.

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BLUEFIELD, W.Va. -- United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that two federal inmates pled guilty to possessing weapons. Corey Fair, 27, and Rashun Evans, 23, inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) at McDowell, both admitted to possessing a handcrafted weapon, commonly known as a “shank.” 

“Bureau of Prisons staff members do an excellent job of finding and confiscating shanks, ultimately thwarting potential violence among inmates,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “These cases will be prosecuted and offenders will find themselves with longer prison sentences.”

Fair admitted that on January 26, 2020, he possessed a handcrafted weapon known as a shank. A staff member at the prison found the weapon, which was a five and one-half inch piece of metal sharpened on one end, in Fair’s pocket during a random search.  The staff member then recovered the weapon. 

Evans admitted that on February 5, 2020, he also possessed a handcrafted weapon while he was an inmate at the FCI McDowell.   A staff member at the prison found the shank hidden underneath a telephone in a common area after Evans had placed it there.  The weapon was a seven inch long piece of metal sharpened on one end with a cloth handle on the other end.

Both defendants admitted that the shanks were designed and intended to be used as a weapon.

Both Fair and Evans face up to five years in prison, to be served consecutively to the sentences they are now serving. Sentencing for both defendants is set for April 29, 2021.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is handling the prosecutions. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the plea hearings. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 1:20-cr-00202 and 1:20-cr-00203.

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BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Randall Lee Peggs, also known as “Randy Peggs,” 57, of Wheeling, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for conspiracy to produce child pornography.  Upon completion of his prison sentence, the defendant will serve a 20 year term of supervised release.  Peggs also was ordered to pay $42,900 in restitution to the child victim, which will be joint and several with his codefendant, Elizabeth Haway.  Last month, Haway was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

“Egregious,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “The heinous acts of Peggs and co-conspirator, Elizabeth Haway, have caused lifelong trauma to the young victim in this case.  They will now be behind bars, away from West Virginia children, for the next 15 and 20 years, respectively.”

Peggs previously admitted that he began talking with codefendant Elizabeth Haway, of Princeton, on Facebook in November 2018. Over the course of several months, Peggs and Haway conspired to produce child pornography of a female minor child. The majority of their communications occurred on Facebook Messenger. Peggs encouraged Haway to record and send him nude videos of the female minor child. Ultimately, Haway recorded a video of the female minor child that showed the child nude and sent the video to Peggs via Facebook in February 2019. 

This case was investigated by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the FBI’s Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Kristin F. Scott handled the prosecution.

This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:19-cr-00304.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that two Huntington men were sentenced to federal prison for gun crimes.

Jeffrey L. Hodgens, 42, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for theft of a firearm.  He previously pled guilty and admitted that on March 24, 2019, he entered a vehicle that was parked in the 1100 block of 4th Avenue in Huntington where he located a Colt, 5.56 mm rifle.  Hodgens stole the rifle and admitted that he subsequently traded it to another person in Huntington in exchange for methamphetamine.  When the rifle was later recovered, it was determined that the rifle was capable of firing as a fully automatic machinegun.  The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Huntington Police Department.  United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. 

Craig Eatmon, also known as “Fresh,” 41, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm on two separate occasions. Eatmon admitted that on May 19 and June 17 of 2019,  he sold a firearm at Tri-State Pawn and Jewelry on 4th Avenue in Huntington. At the time he sold the firearms, he had been convicted of a drug related felony and malicious destruction of property in Wayne County, Michigan.   As a result of those convictions, Eatmon was prohibited from possessing the firearms. The ATF conducted the investigation.   United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey handled the prosecution.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 3:19-cr-00297 (Hodgens) and 3:20-cr-00104 (Eatmon).

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. --  United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today Steven McCallister, 47, of Barboursville, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. McCallister received an enhanced penalty because he had a previous federal drug trafficking conviction. 

“This dangerous drug dealer received a sentencing enhancement and will serve 20 years in federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “McCallister was still on supervised release from a previous federal drug conviction when he was caught peddling poisons in 2019. He won’t be causing any more trouble in Cabell County.”

McCallister was convicted of the charges in August 2020 after a jury trial. The evidence at trial revealed that on June 12, 2019, agents with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) arranged a controlled buy of 50 grams of heroin from McCallister through a confidential informant (CI). The controlled buy was conducted at McCallister’s residence at 224 Carper Lane in Barboursville. Following the controlled buy, MDENT agents, along with members of the Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, executed a search warrant at the residence and discovered over a kilogram of fentanyl/heroin mix.  They also discovered a loaded .357 handgun in McCallister’s bedroom where part of the fentanyl was located along with a large amount of cash. McCallister was on supervised release at the time from his previous federal drug trafficking conviction.

United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.  In addition to MDENT and the Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the West Virginia State Police also assisted in the investigation. Assistant U. S. Attorneys Greg McVey and Joseph Adams handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-00153.

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BECKLEY, W.Va. –  United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Matthew Riffle, age 30, of Rupert, was sentenced to 14 months in federal prison for the felony offense of breaking into a United States Post Office.  Riffle pled guilty on September 25, 2020 and has been in federal custody since June 30, 2020.  He was also ordered to pay restitution to the United States Post Office in the amount of  $3,690.42 for the items he took that were not recovered and any damage done to both of the post offices.  After he discharges his prison sentence, he will be placed on supervised release for three years.

“Breaking into federal government buildings is a serious offense,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.  “And as Riffle can attest, it’s an offense that can result in stiff sentences.”

On two successive days, Riffle broke into two different United States Post Offices.  On March 31, 2019, Riffle used a pry bar to break into the Springdale, Fayette County, United States Post Office.  Once inside, he took a postage meter, mail, stamps and some cash.  On the previous day, Riffle broke into the Smoot, Greenbrier County, United States Post Office and took some cash.  Finally, on April 1, 2019, Riffle again attempted to break into the Smoot Post Office, but was not successful due to the installation of a new door lock and security mechanism.  Riffle was arrested on April 2, 2019 by the Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Department. Riffle was advised of his Miranda rights and agreed to give a statement.  He admitted to breaking into both of the post offices, and attempting to break into the Smoot Post Office a second time. Riffle stated that his goal was to take the postal machine that prints money orders, but he took the postage stamp meter by mistake. Law enforcement recovered a number of the stolen items from Riffle’s home, including the postage meter from the Springdale Post Office. 

United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the sentencing. The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Sheriff’s Departments of Greenbrier and Fayette counties investigated the case.  Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes handled the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-cr-00064.

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