Southern District of West Virginia

BECKLEY, W.Va. – A convicted felon from Sophia pleaded guilty today to a federal gun charge, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Gene A. James, 46, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

James admitted that on February 23, 2016, while in Sophia, he possessed a Leinad model DD derringer pistol. James was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2014 conviction in United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia for distribution of oxycodone.

James faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on November 2, 2016.

The United States Marshals Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Three defendants appeared in Charleston today and pleaded guilty to federal charges, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto.

Ronald Sayles, 39, of Charleston, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Sayles admitted that in December 2014, he possessed two handguns, a Taurus .32 caliber pistol and a Ruger 9 mm pistol, at his Charleston residence. Charleston Police Department officers discovered the guns while executing a search warrant on December 7, 2014. Sayles was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2002 felony drug conviction in Kanawha County Circuit Court. Sayles faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 20, 2016.

Howard Williamson, 55, of Madison, entered his guilty plea to distribution of oxycodone. Williamson admitted that on July 23, 2015, and again on October 25, 2015, he sold oxycodone pills to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. Williamson further admitted that the drug deals took place at his Madison residence. Williamson faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on November 2, 2016.

Tyruss Jackson, 34, pleaded guilty to possession of a weapon while an inmate of a federal prison. Jackson admitted that on September 18, 2015, he possessed a handcrafted knife while he was serving time in the Federal Correctional Institution at McDowell. The handcrafted wooden weapon, commonly referred to as a “shank,” was sharpened to a point, measured slightly over six inches in length, had tape wrapped around one end to serve as a handle, and a had a string tied to the handle to serve as a lanyard. A Bureau of Prisons staff member discovered the item concealed in Jackson’s pants. Jackson is scheduled to be sentenced on August 30, 2016. He faces a year and two months in federal prison to be served after he completes his current undischarged sentence.

The Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation of Sayles. Assistant United States Attorney John J. Frail is handling the prosecution of Sayles. The plea hearing for Sayles was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.

The Route 119 Drug Task Force conducted the investigation of Williamson. Assistant United States Attorney John J. Frail is responsible for the prosecution of Williamson. The Williamson plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston.

The case against Jackson was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant United States Attorney John L. File is in charge of the prosecution of Jackson. The Jackson plea hearing was held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.

The case against Sayles was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.

The Williamson case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. - In the wake of the tragedies in Dallas and Baton Rouge, today the President issued an open letter to America's law enforcement community, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto.

The full text of the letter is below:

To the brave members of our Nation’s law enforcement community:

Every day, you confront danger so it does not find our families, carry burdens so they do not fall to us, and courageously meet test after test to keep us safe.  Like Dallas officer Lorne Ahrens, who bought dinner for a homeless man the night before he died, you perform good deeds beyond the call of duty and out of the spotlight.  Time and again, you make the split-second decisions that could mean life or death for you and many others in harm’s way.  You endure the tense minutes and long hours over lifetimes of service.

Every day, you accept this responsibility and you see your colleagues do their difficult, dangerous jobs with equal valor.  I want you to know that the American people see it, too.  We recognize it, we respect it, we appreciate it, and we depend on you.  And just as your tight-knit law enforcement family feels the recent losses to your core, our Nation grieves alongside you.  Any attack on police is an unjustified attack on all of us.

I’ve spent a lot of time with law enforcement over the past couple of weeks.  I know that you take each of these tragedies personally, and that each is as devastating as a loss in the family.  Sunday’s shooting in Baton Rouge was no different.  Together, we mourn Montrell Jackson, Matthew Gerald, and Brad Garafola.  Each was a husband.  Each was a father.  Each was a proud member of his community.  And each fallen officer is one too many.  Last week, I met with the families of the Dallas officers who were killed, and I called the families of those who were killed in the line of duty yesterday in Baton Rouge.  I let them know how deeply we ache for the loss of their loved ones.

Some are trying to use this moment to divide police and the communities you serve.  I reject those efforts, for they do not reflect the reality of our Nation.  Officer Jackson knew this too, when just days ago he asked us to keep hatred from our hearts.  Instead, he offered—to protestors and fellow police officers alike—a hug to anyone who saw him on the street.  He offered himself as a fellow worshipper to anyone who sought to pray.  Today, we offer our comfort and our prayers to his family, to the Geralds and the Garafolas, and to the tight-knit Baton Rouge law enforcement community.

As you continue to serve us in this tumultuous hour, we again recognize that we can no longer ask you to solve issues we refuse to address as a society.  We should give you the resources you need to do your job, including our full-throated support.  We must give you the tools you need to build and strengthen the bonds of trust with those you serve, and our best efforts to address the underlying challenges that contribute to crime and unrest.

As you continue to defend us with quiet dignity, we proclaim loudly our appreciation for the acts of service you perform as part of your daily routine.  When you see civilians at risk, you don’t see them as strangers.  You see them as your own family, and you lay your life on the line for them.  You put others’ safety before your own, and you remind us that loving our country means loving one another.  Even when some protest you, you protect them.  What is more professional than that?  What is more patriotic?  What is a prouder example of our most basic freedoms—to speech, to assembly, to life, and to liberty?  And at the end of the day, you have a right to go home to your family, just like anybody else.

Robert Kennedy, once our Nation’s highest-ranking law enforcement official, lamented in the wake of unjust violence a country in which we look at our neighbors as people “with whom we share a city, but not a community.”  This is a time for us to reaffirm that what makes us special is that we are not only a country, but also a community.  That is true whether you are black or white, whether you are rich or poor, whether you are a police officer or someone they protect and serve.

With that understanding—an understanding of the goodness and decency I have seen of our Nation not only in the past few weeks, but throughout my life—we will get through this difficult time together.

We will do it with the love and empathy of public servants like those we have lost in recent days.  We will do it with the resilience of cities like Dallas that quickly came together to restore order and deepen unity and understanding.  We will do it with the grace of loved ones who even in their grief have spoken out against vengeance toward police.  We will do it with the good will of activists like those I have sat with in recent days, who have pledged to work together to reduce violence even as they voice their disappointments and fears.

As we bind up our wounds, we must come together to ensure that those who try to divide us do not succeed.  We are at our best when we recognize our common humanity, set an example for our children of trust and responsibility, and honor the sacrifices of our bravest by coming together to be better.

Thank you for your courageous service.  We have your backs.

Sincerely,

Barack Obama

The full letter is also available at https://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2016/07/19/read-president-obamas-open-letter-americas-law-enforcement-community

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A San Diego man pleaded guilty today to submitting a false draw request on a construction loan from United Bank, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Daniel Berg, 60, entered his guilty plea to making a false statement to a financial institution.

Berg admitted that in the summer of 2004, he and another individual formed a real estate development company called Mountain America, LLC, and purchased land near the town of Union in Monroe County to develop a residential community. The development was called Walnut Springs Mountain Reserve. Mountain America operated primarily out of an office located in Lewisburg.

In April 2005, Berg assisted an individual in submitting a construction loan application to United Bank in Fayetteville for the purpose of building a home on a parcel in Walnut Springs Mountain Reserve. On May 13, 2005, United Bank approved the construction loan. Following approval of the loan, Berg admitted that through Mountain America he submitted a false draw request on the construction loan for over $68,000 in reimbursement for purported construction expenses. United Bank approved this draw and deposited the funds into Mountain America’s construction control checking account. On May 19, 2005, Berg wrote a check for over $37,000 from the Mountain America construction control account to another individual. Those funds were used for expenses unrelated to home construction in Walnut Springs Mountain Reserve.

Berg faces up to 30 years in federal prison and a $1 million fine when he is sentenced on November 8, 2016.

The investigation was conducted by the FBI. Assistant United States Attorney Larry R. Ellis is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.

Please note:  The headline above has been corrected from the original version released on July 14, 2016.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Nicholas County woman pleaded guilty today to escaping from a halfway house, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Nikki Doddrill, 30, of Summersville, entered her guilty plea to escaping from federal custody.

Doddrill admitted that, while serving a sentence for conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, she was transferred to Dismas Charities in St. Albans to complete the remaining six months of her sentence in a residential halfway house. On the evening of May 12, 2015, Doddrill left the halfway house without permission and failed to return. She was apprehended by law enforcement in Richwood on August 27, 2015, and she was incarcerated for the remainder of her sentence.

Doddrill faces up to five years in federal prison when she is sentenced on September 21, 2016.

The United States Marshals Service is responsible for the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Gabriele Wohl is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

The investigation in this case resulted in the third guilty plea this year for escaping from a halfway house. The permissions granted to residents of halfway houses are designed to make transitions from federal prison back into society successful. These cases are part of an effort by the United States Attorney’s Office to deter those serving the remainder of their prison sentences in halfway houses from unlawfully abandoning this transition period before their sentences are complete.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Lincoln County man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Aaron Hatfield, 37, of Harts, entered his guilty plea to obtaining controlled substances by fraud and misrepresentation.

Hatfield admitted that on January 6, 2016, he acquired a family member’s key to Chapmanville Pharmacy through misrepresentation and entered the building after normal business hours. Once inside, he obtained oxycodone, Xanax, and morphine pills. Hatfield moved pill bottles around in an effort to avoid detection, though he was recorded by the pharmacy’s video surveillance. He further admitted to obtaining 130 oxycodone pills, 50 Xanax pills, and eight 100 mg morphine pills. He also admitted that he did not have a valid prescription nor the authority to enter the pharmacy and obtain the pills.

Hatfield faces up to four years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 11, 2016.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Logan County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John J. Frail is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man caught dealing drugs while on federal supervised release was sentenced to prison today, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Alan Alexander Clark, 33, previously pleaded guilty to distributing heroin. In today’s hearing, he was sentenced to two years in federal prison for that offense. He was also sentenced to an additional two years in prison for violating his federal supervised release. The sentences will be served consecutively.

Clark admitted that on July 29, 2015, he sold heroin to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place at the Rite Aid at 406 Washington Street, West, in Charleston. Clark further admitted that he sold heroin and methamphetamine to a confidential informant on three additional occasions.

The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. Assistant United States Attorney Clint Carte handled the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Beckley man substantially involved in a California-to-West Virginia drug conspiracy pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Velarian Sylvester Carter, 37, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.

Carter admitted that from January 2015 to March 2016, he was involved in a drug conspiracy with multiple individuals that included the transportation and distribution of methamphetamine. He admitted that in January 2015, he conspired to have methamphetamine delivered from California to West Virginia. Carter also admitted to receiving methamphetamine from Daniel Ortiz-Rivera, a codefendant, until Ortiz-Rivera was arrested in Kansas in June 2015. Ortiz-Rivera’s arrest prompted Carter to begin purchasing drugs directly from Ortiz-Rivera’s supplier.

Carter further admitted that on March 21, 2016, a confidential informant working with law enforcement discussed the logistics of bringing drugs to Charleston with Carter, including cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, and heroin. That same day law enforcement stopped Carter and seized suspected drugs and approximately $28,000 in cash from the vehicle. Carter additionally admitted that on March 24, 2016, he arranged with confidential informants for the pickup of two pounds of methamphetamine in exchange for $12,000 in Charleston. On March 25, 2016, Carter arrived at the pre-arranged location and parked near the vehicle he was told contained methamphetamine. At that time law enforcement arrested Carter and seized $11,990 cash from Carter that he kept inside a Burger King bag.

Carter faces at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 13, 2016.

This prosecution is the result of a multi-agency investigation which led to an eight-count indictment implicating 14 defendants, including Carter. Carter’s codefendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. As part of this conspiracy, Ortiz-Rivera, a Mexican national, previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and is scheduled to be sentenced on October 11, 2016. Additionally, two women used as mules to transport methamphetamine, Danielle Dessaray Estrada, of Los Angeles, and Kelly Newcomb, of Nevada, have pleaded guilty to interstate travel in furtherance of a drug crime and are scheduled to be sentenced on October 6, 2016. 

The FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Charleston Police Department, and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Mexican national heavily involved in a California-to-West Virginia drug conspiracy pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Daniel Ortiz-Rivera, 24, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.

Ortiz-Rivera admitted that from January 2015 to June 2015, he was involved in a drug conspiracy with multiple individuals that included the transportation and distribution of methamphetamine. He admitted that in January 2015, he conspired to have methamphetamine delivered from California to West Virginia and supplied drugs to individuals in West Virginia. Ortiz-Rivera additionally admitted that he had methamphetamine delivered to him in West Virginia and traveled himself to California to pick up methamphetamine. From January 2015 through May 2015, he delivered at least eight pounds of methamphetamine to an individual in West Virginia. He also admitted that on June 5, 2015, he was driving from California to transport methamphetamine to Charleston and was stopped by law enforcement in Kansas. During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement discovered approximately four pounds of methamphetamine.

Ortiz-Rivera faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 11, 2016.

This prosecution is the result of a multi-agency investigation which led to an eight-count indictment implicating 14 defendants, including Ortiz-Rivera. Ortiz-Rivera’s codefendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. As part of this conspiracy, two women used as mules to transport methamphetamine, Danielle Dessaray Estrada, 21, of Los Angeles, and Kelly Newcomb, 56, of Nevada, have pleaded guilty and are scheduled to be sentenced on October 6, 2016. 

The FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Charleston Police Department, and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto announced today that two men pleaded guilty to charges in federal court in Charleston before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.  Austin Flint, 24, of Mount Hope, pleaded guilty to making a false statement in acquisition of a firearm, admitting that on September 28, 2015, he falsified a form at Shooter’s Roost in Beckley, indicating that he was the actual purchaser of three firearms when in fact he was purchasing them at the direction of another person.  Flint faces up to five years in prison when he is sentenced on October 20, 2016.  The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

In a separate case, Elliott Tubbs Jr., 30, pleaded guilty to possession of a weapon by an inmate of a federal prison.  Tubbs, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution at Beckley, admitted that on February 20, 2016, a staff member at the prison searched him and found a sharpened wooden object in his sock.  The object, a handcrafted weapon, is commonly called a shank.  Tubbs also will be sentenced on October 20, 2016, and faces up to five years in prison.  The Tubbs case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

Assistant United States Attorney John File is handling both prosecutions.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Dennis and Joshua Walls, 25 and 22, of Charleston, were sentenced today to federal prison for heroin distribution, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. The two are brothers. Dennis Walls was sentenced to a year and a day in prison, and Joshua Walls was sentenced to six months.

Both Dennis Walls, who pleaded guilty in March, and Joshua Walls, who pleaded guilty April, previously admitted to their joint efforts in distributing heroin from a residence they shared on Fairview Drive in Charleston. The investigation of the brothers by the Charleston Police Department’s Special Enforcement Unit began after Joshua Walls sold heroin to a confidential informant working with that agency. The brothers were responsible for distributing between 10 and 20 grams of heroin locally.

This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of heroin and prescription drugs.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal heroin and pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of heroin and opiate painkillers in communities across the Southern District.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Lincoln County man was sentenced today to 8 years in federal prison for conspiring to illegally distribute oxycodone and other prescription pills, Acting U.S. Attorney Carol Casto announced. Timothy Hallam, 34, of Branchland, West Virginia, was part of a drug scheme that involved prescription pills brought from Florida for sale in West Virginia.  

From May 2012 through May 2014, Hallam conspired with individuals in Florida and Lincoln County to distribute quantities of oxycodone, also known as “Roxicodone,” and other prescription pills.  Hallam further conspired with individuals in Lincoln County and Florida to launder the proceeds of the oxycodone distribution by depositing the proceeds in to bank accounts in West Virginia owned by Lester W. Taylor, the source of the oxycodone, so that Taylor could withdraw the proceeds from his bank accounts in Florida.  The money was deposited in West Virginia in an effort to conceal the source of the cash as drug proceeds, to conceal Taylor as the source of the pills, and to conceal the location of the proceeds of the pill distributions.

Beginning in May 2012 and continuing until May 2014, Hallam obtained oxycodone pills from Lester Taylor, who resided in Florida, for distribution in Lincoln County, West Virginia.  Taylor acquired oxycodone pills in Florida and West Virginia and would front the pills to Hallam and other individuals in Lincoln County to distribute.  Once Hallam sold the oxycodone pills in West Virginia, he would deposit the proceeds in to L.W. Taylor’s bank accounts at various banks in Barboursville, West Virginia and Huntington, West Virginia.  Once the money was deposited in West Virginia, L.W. Taylor and others would withdraw the money in Florida. From May 2012 through May 2014, Hallam deposited approximately $40,325 in drug proceeds into L.W. Taylor’s bank accounts in Barboursville for withdrawal in Florida. 

The case was investigated by the West Virginia State Police, the IRS-CID, the Metro Drug Enforcement Network Team, and the Drug Enforcement Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica Coleman handled the prosecution. The sentenced was imposed by United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man who participated in a heroin distribution conspiracy in 2012 and 2013 was sentenced today to three and a half years in federal prison, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Edwin G. Simpson, 45, previously pleaded guilty to maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing and using heroin.

Between November 2012 and March 2013, Simpson was the tenant of an apartment at 1231 10th Avenue in Huntington. During that period, Simpson allowed others to store heroin at his apartment after it was transported from Detroit. Simpson also allowed others to distribute heroin from his apartment to various customers. 

On March 8, 2013, agents with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Simpson’s apartment. During the search, agents seized heroin, a .32 caliber revolver, ammunition, and other items associated with the sale of heroin.

Multiple defendants have been convicted of drug offenses as a result of this investigation. Those sentenced to federal prison include Kenneth E. Baxter, who was sentenced to seven years and three months; Coty S. Richardson, who was sentenced to five years and ten months; Sean L. Gist, who was sentenced to five years and three months; Ramone L. Wells, who was sentenced to four years; Pricilla Lee Dylan, who was sentenced to two years and nine months; and Dustin S. Barton, who was sentenced to a year and a day. Paul A. Roberts, Jr., was sentenced to five years of probation for assisting the group in securing a residence to conduct drug deals. Warren G. Howard was also sentenced to five years of probation for distributing heroin. 

The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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Please note that the original press release inadvertently omitted the United States Postal Inspection Service in the list of investigating agencies responsible for this case.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A woman caught transporting a significant load of crystal methamphetamine from California to West Virginia pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Kelly Newcomb, 56, of Nevada, entered her guilty plea to interstate travel in furtherance of a drug crime.

Newcomb admitted that on March 10, 2016, she rented a vehicle in Las Vegas and drove with a codefendant to California, where 10 pounds of crystal methamphetamine were concealed in the vehicle for transportation to West Virginia. Newcomb and the codefendant then began the drive to West Virginia, and during the course of the trip Newcomb learned about the concealed drugs. Newcomb further admitted that on March 18, 2016, she arrived in West Virginia, rented a room at the Super 8 Motel in Huntington, and followed the instructions of another codefendant by leaving the vehicle unlocked in the parking lot. After Newcomb’s arrival, an undercover officer, in accordance with instructions obtained through a cooperating individual, removed the spare tire where the drugs were concealed. 

Newcomb faces up to five years in federal prison when she is sentenced on October 6, 2016.

Another woman used as a mule to transport methamphetamine during the course of this conspiracy, Danielle Dessaray Estrada, 21, of Los Angeles, previously pleaded guilty and faces up to five years in federal prison when she is sentenced on October 6, 2016. 

This prosecution is the result of a multi-agency investigation which led to an eight-count indictment implicating 14 defendants, including Estrada. Estrada’s codefendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The FBI, DHS Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Charleston Police Department, and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison for possessing over 600 images and videos of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Charles Tom Davisson II, 56, previously pleaded guilty to the federal child pornography crime. After Davisson is released from prison, he will be on supervised release for 25 years and will also be required to register as a sex offender.

Davisson admitted that on January 22, 2015, he possessed images and videos of prepubescent minors engaged in sexual acts. Investigators found the massive collection of images and videos on his computer and other media devices discovered at his residence in Parkersburg. Davisson further admitted that he was illegally using peer-to-peer file sharing programs to download, receive, and distribute child pornography.

“This is the third case this week that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has brought before the court dealing with sex crimes against children,” said Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. “These frequent prosecutions reflect our commitment, as well as the commitment of our law enforcement partners, to bringing sexual predators to justice. The public needs to be aware that these serious crimes have tremendous consequences and can result in lengthy prison sentences.”

The Parkersburg Police Department, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.  

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing initiative by the United States Attorney’s Office to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Nitro methamphetamine dealer pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jamisa Hairston, 25, entered her guilty plea to distribution of methamphetamine.

Hairston admitted that on April 7, 2014, she sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place at a residence in Nitro that Hairston shared with her boyfriend.

Hairston faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on October 5, 2016.

The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John J. Frail is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Beckley man was sentenced today to a year in federal prison for a drug crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. David Pfost, 31, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of oxycodone.

Pfost admitted that on February 11, 2015, he distributed oxycodone to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place on Washington Street in Beckley.  

The Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence.

This prosecution was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man was sentenced today to 12 and a half years in federal prison for a child pornography crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Kevin Wayne Davis, 49, previously pleaded guilty to possessing over 600 images and videos of child pornography. After Davis is released from prison, he will be on supervised release for 25 years and will also be required to register as a sex offender.

Davis admitted that on November 5, 2014, he possessed images and videos of prepubescent minors engaged in sexual acts. The exceptionally large collection of images and videos was contained on his computers and multiple media devices found at his residence in Parkersburg. Investigators discovered that Davis was using peer-to-peer file sharing programs to download, receive, and distribute child pornography. The investigation also revealed that Davis engaged in a pattern of sexually abusing and sexually exploiting minors from 1998 through 2013.

“This is a significant sentence and it reflects the serious nature of crimes against children,” said Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. “Perpetrators need to be aware that possessing child pornography carries severe consequences. Anyone who puts children in danger should know that we will continue working with our law enforcement partners to aggressively prosecute sexual predators.”

The Parkersburg Police Department, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the West Virginia State Police, and the Wood County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.

This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing initiative of the United States Attorney’s Office to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two Chicago women pleaded guilty today to credit card fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Christine Johnson, 26, and Stephanie Stevenson, 27, both entered guilty pleas to possession of 15 or more counterfeit access devices. A counterfeit access device is a credit card that has been altered so that it contains stolen information that has been re-encoded on the magnetic strip on the back of the card. 

Johnson and Stevenson both admitted that they, along with two other codefendants, Wynesha Wilson-Robinson and Crystal Merritt, possessed over 100 counterfeit access devices. Johnson and Stevenson drove from Chicago to West Virginia in an attempt to use these counterfeit credit cards. On June 5, 2015, the women were observed at the South Charleston Target and Walmart attempting to use the counterfeit cards, and store employees alerted law enforcement to the suspicious behavior.

Johnson and Stevenson each face up to 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine when they are sentenced on October 3, 2016.

The South Charleston Police Department and the United States Secret Service conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is in charge of the prosecutions. The plea hearings were held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

Wynesha Wilson-Robinson, 27, of Chicago, previously pleaded guilty in April 2016 to credit card fraud and is scheduled to be sentenced on August 11, 2016. The fourth codefendant, Crystal Merritt, 29, also of Chicago, is scheduled for a plea hearing on August 4, 2016. All of the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in a court of law.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Nitro man pleaded guilty today to a federal sex crime involving a minor, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Mark Anthony Levitt, 38, entered his guilty plea for using an app on his cell phone to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity.

Levitt admitted that from June 2015 through July 2015, he used a cell phone to send sexually explicit messages to persuade and induce a 14-year-old to engage in sexual activity.

Levitt faces a mandatory prison sentence of 12 years, to be followed by 25 years of supervised release. Levitt will also be required to register as a sex offender. Sentencing is scheduled for October 5, 2016.

“This case sends a clear message that there are serious consequences for those who exploit and abuse minors,” said Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue working with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to hold sexual predators accountable.”

The Nitro Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This prosecution is being brought as part of an ongoing initiative of the United States Attorney’s Office to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two men pleaded guilty today to federal drug crimes, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Matthew Michael Meadows, 31, of Charleston, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin. In a separate prosecution, Arthur James Canada, 25, of Huntington, entered his guilty plea to using a phone to facilitate a felony drug offense.

Meadows admitted that from the summer of 2014 to the spring of 2016, he conspired with others to distribute heroin in the Huntington and Charleston areas. Meadows frequently met with his co-conspirators and received amounts of heroin ranging from five grams to one ounce. He subsequently distributed the heroin and returned a portion of the drug proceeds back to his co-conspirators. Meadows admitted that he was responsible for the distribution of up to 400 grams of heroin. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 26, 2016.

In a separate drug prosecution, Arthur James Canada admitted that from February 2016 to May 2016, he conspired with other individuals to distribute marijuana that had been transported from California. Members of the conspiracy were also involved in the distribution of other controlled substances, including heroin, crack, and pain pills. During the conspiracy, Canada further admitted to receiving marijuana that he sold in the Huntington area. On March 28, 2016, he placed a call to a co-conspirator that was intercepted by law enforcement. During the call, Canada and the co-conspirator discussed the price at which to sell a certain type of marijuana. Canada faces up to four years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 29, 2016.

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted both investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecutions. The plea hearings were held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

These prosecutions were brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington drug dealer residing in close proximity to Marshall University pleaded guilty today to a federal heroin crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Derrick Linwood Thomas, 25, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute heroin within 1,000 feet of a university.

On March 21, 2016, officers with the Huntington Police Department executed a search warrant at 213 19th Street in Huntington. Thomas admitted this was his residence and that it was located within 1,000 feet of Marshall University. Officers found Thomas in the residence and seized over 15 grams of heroin from his pants. Officers also seized four additional bags of heroin weighing approximately 2 grams, $950 in cash that included $70 in marked currency from a previous controlled drug purchase, a .32 caliber pistol, and a shotgun. Thomas was arrested and admitted that he had been distributing heroin in the Huntington area.

Thomas faces up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 26, 2016.

The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

This prosecution was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston heroin dealer pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Daniel Andrew Hicks, 42, entered his guilty plea to distribution of heroin.

Hicks admitted that on several occasions in January and February of 2016, he sold heroin to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. Following his arrest on February 18, 2016, law enforcement found Hicks with close to five grams of heroin that he intended to distribute. Additionally, officers executed a search warrant on an apartment Hicks had rented at 112 Henson Avenue in South Charleston and seized $4,924 in cash stored in a shoe box on the kitchen counter. Next to the shoe box, officers also discovered three sets of digital scales and three cell phones.

Hicks faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 28, 2016.

The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston.

This prosecution was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Montgomery man caught with substantial amounts of methamphetamine, heroin, and marijuana pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Bryan Lee Palmer, 43, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. 

Palmer admitted that on February 26, 2016, he made arrangements for a drug deal to take place at a hotel in South Charleston. When Palmer arrived at the hotel, he was met by law enforcement. The officers obtained a search warrant for a duffel bag and backpack that was in Palmer’s possession. When officers searched the bags, they found over 1,500 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 700 grams of heroin, over a half a kilogram of marijuana, a loaded .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and over $30,000 in cash. Palmer further admitted that it was his intent to distribute the drugs in the Charleston area. Law enforcement estimated the street value of the seized drugs to be approximately $466,000.  

Palmer faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 12, 2016.

The case against Palmer was investigated by the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office and members of its Sheriff’s Tactical Operations Patrol (STOP) team. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man was sentenced to a year and nine months in federal prison for a heroin crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Justin Randolph, 27, previously entered his guilty plea to distribution of heroin.

Randolph admitted that on January 15, 2015, he sold heroin to a confidential informant working with the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office. The drug deal took place in the Kroger parking lot in Dunbar.

The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John J. Frail is handling the prosecution. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence.

This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of pills and heroin in communities across the Southern District. 

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A second New York City woman pleaded guilty today to credit card fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Sasha Nelson, 21, entered her guilty plea to possession of 15 or more counterfeit access devices. A counterfeit access device is a credit card that has been altered to contain stolen account information that is magnetically re-encoded on the credit card. 

Nelson admitted that she, along with codefendant Nayosha Aice, possessed 78 counterfeit access devices. Nelson and Aice drove from New York City, using these counterfeit credit cards to buy cartons of Newport cigarettes and other merchandise. They were observed at the St. Albans Go-Mart using multiple counterfeit cards on June 25, 2015, and, after noticing the suspicious behavior, store employees contacted law enforcement. Nelson further admitted that once she realized police were observing them, she hid some of the credit cards on a shelf in a nearby store, while Aice threw some of the credit cards away in a nearby garbage can. Officers recovered the credit cards and subsequently confirmed that the credit cards were counterfeit access devices.

Nelson faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine when she is sentenced on September 15, 2016. Her codefendant, Nayosha Aice, also of New York City, previously pleaded guilty on June 8, 2016, and is scheduled to be sentenced on the same date.

The St. Albans Police Department and the United States Secret Service conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Erik S. Goes and Eric Bacaj are in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Los Angeles woman caught transporting a load of crystal methamphetamine from California to West Virginia pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Danielle Dessaray Estrada, 21, entered her guilty plea to interstate travel in furtherance of a drug crime.

Estrada admitted that in March 2016, she picked up approximately five pounds of crystal methamphetamine in California. Estrada also admitted that with the help of some of her codefendants, she repackaged the methamphetamine and concealed the drugs in the back seat of her car. Estrada further admitted that she and one of her codefendants drove from California to West Virginia and they were stopped by officers in South Charleston on March 26, 2016. Law enforcement discovered the drugs during the traffic stop. Estrada additionally admitted that she had previously driven to Charleston in December 2015 to deliver drugs.

Estrada faces up to five years in federal prison when she is sentenced on October 6, 2016. 

This prosecution is the result of a multi-agency investigation which led to an eight-count indictment implicating 14 defendants, including Estrada. Estrada’s codefendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The FBI, DHS Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Charleston Police Department, and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jenny Rada Herrald is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Greenbrier County man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Edgar Crislip, 48, of Ronceverte, entered his guilty plea to distribution of oxycodone.

Crislip admitted that on November 30, 2015, he distributed oxycodone pills to a confidential informant in Ronceverte. He further admitted that he sold oxycodone pills on three other occasions.

Crislip faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 5, 2016.

The Greenbrier Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John File is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.

This case was prosecuted under the Greenbrier Valley Heroin and Pill Initiative, part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of pills and heroin in communities across the Southern District. 

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man pleaded guilty today to a federal heroin crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Lamont Walter Haywood, 38, entered his guilty plea to distribution of heroin.

Haywood admitted that on January 22, 2015, he sold heroin to a confidential informant working with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force. The drug deal took place at Star Communications, located on 8th Avenue in Huntington.

Haywood faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 19, 2016.

The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory McVey is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

This prosecution is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of pills and heroin in communities across the Southern District. 

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Nicholas County woman who issued herself prescriptions without authorization from a doctor pleaded guilty today, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Cary Lynn Eades, 47, of Mount Nebo, entered her guilty plea to obtaining the prescription opioid pain medication tramadol by fraud.

On numerous occasions between January 2012 and March 2015, Eades took advantage of her position as a medical practice manager to issue herself prescriptions for tramadol using the names and DEA registration numbers of doctors for whom she worked. Eades filled prescriptions at pharmacies in Nicholas, Fayette, and Kanawha counties. The Central West Virginia Drug Task Force became involved in February 2015 when one of the medical practices reported suspicious prescriptions being issued to Eades.

Eades was indicted in Fayette and Nicholas counties in 2015 on more than 30 felony counts of obtaining a prescription by fraud. Her guilty plea in federal court reflects a consolidation of those charges as well as potential charges in Kanawha County.

Eades faces up to four years in federal prison when she is sentenced on September 26, 2016.

This case was investigated by the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston.

This prosecution is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of pills and heroin in communities across the Southern District. 

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Cross Lanes man pleaded guilty today to carjacking and a drug crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. David Allen Young, 24, entered his guilty plea to two counts of carjacking and one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

Young admitted that from summer 2014 through January 2016, he was part of a large-scale methamphetamine trafficking network. During that time period, he received at least 40 pounds of crystal methamphetamine from his sources and distributed it to individuals in and around Kanawha County.

Young further admitted that on January 24, 2016, he stole a Ford Expedition in Putnam County and fired a shot at an occupied vehicle in St. Albans. Later that same day, Young approached a Ford Edge SUV on foot near the intersection of Big Tyler Road and Waycross Drive in Cross Lanes. Young pointed a 9 mm handgun at a man occupying the SUV and ordered him to get out of the vehicle. The man complied and Young got into the Ford Edge and drove away. Young drove until he approached a Chevrolet S-10 truck in Cross Lanes occupied by another man and his juvenile son. Young pointed the same handgun at those individuals and ordered them out of the truck. Young then got into the truck and drove to the Dalewood Trailer Park in Cross Lanes. He shot through the glass door of a residence in the trailer park and stole a television, which he intended to trade for drugs. Young was arrested on January 26, 2016.

Young faces up to 50 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 5, 2016. The investigation into the drug conspiracy was handled by the FBI and the Charleston Police Department’s Special Enforcement Unit. The carjackings were investigated by the Kanawha County Sherriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District. This case was also brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A St. Albans man caught with fentanyl, marijuana, several pistols, and three assault rifles was sentenced today to five years in federal prison, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. O’Neil Anthony Peart, 37, previously pleaded guilty to possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking offenses.

On December 4, 2015, drug task force officers executed a search warrant at Peart’s Walnut Street apartment in St. Albans. Among other items, police seized eight firearms, including three “AR”-style assault rifles with high-capacity magazines, approximately 21 grams of fentanyl, approximately 7.5 pounds of marijuana, and more than $5,300 in cash. All but two of the firearms were loaded.

The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the St. Albans Police Department investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by working with existing local programs that target gun crime. This case was also brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District. 

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two men appeared in federal court today on drug charges, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto.

Adam Christopher Skeens, 45, of Princeton, was sentenced to two and a half years in federal prison for distribution of hydromorphone. Skeens admitted that on February 23, 2015, he distributed hydromorphone pills to a confidential informant in Princeton. He further admitted that he distributed hydromorphone to a confidential informant on two other occasions. 

In a separate drug prosecution, Jalil M. Myers, 19, of Charleston, pleaded guilty to distributing heroin. Myers admitted that on November 5, 2015, and on three other occasions, he sold heroin to a confidential informant working with law enforcement authorities. Myers faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 29, 2016.

The Skeens case was investigated by the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney John File handled the prosecution. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence.

The case against Myers was investigated by the South Charleston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

These prosecutions were brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal gun crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Timothy Lee Leftenant, 36, entered his guilty plea to illegally possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony.

On December 28, 2015, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department responded to a call at America’s Best Value Inn in St. Albans and encountered Leftenant after smelling marijuana outside his room. Leftenant ran from the officers when they attempted to pat him down. As he was running, Leftenant threw his hat, which contained heroin and a loaded 9 mm semi-automatic handgun. Leftenant was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of previous felony convictions for possession with intent to distribute crack and for carrying a firearm in relation to a drug crime. Additionally, Leftenant was on federal supervised release for the two prior felony convictions at the time he possessed the handgun.

Leftenant faces up to 10 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm, and up to an additional two years in federal prison for the supervised release violation. He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 4, 2016.

The investigation was conducted by the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Multiple defendants appeared today in federal court in Huntington on drug charges, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto.

Michael Muncy, 36, of Crum in Wayne County, was sentenced to five years and ten months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute oxycodone. Naomi Messer, 55, also of Crum and the mother of Muncy, was sentenced to five years of probation for aiding and abetting possession with intent to distribute oxycodone. Following several controlled purchases of oxycodone from the residence of Muncy and Messer in Crum, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the house on February 21, 2012. Law enforcement seized oxycodone pills and over $1,800 in cash, including pre-recorded buy money from a prior controlled purchase of oxycodone.

In a separate drug prosecution, Jessica Dawn Prince, 30, of Huntington, pleaded guilty to distributing heroin. Prince admitted that on October 19, 2015, she sold heroin to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place in Prince’s residence at 5400 Altizer Avenue in Huntington. Prince faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on September 12, 2016.

The West Virginia State Police and the Route 119 Drug Task Force conducted the investigation of Muncy and Messer. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is in charge of the prosecutions of Muncy and Messer. The Cabell County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation of Prince. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory McVey is responsible for the prosecution of Prince. The hearings were held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

These prosecutions were brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man who murdered a witness was sentenced today to life in federal prison, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Marlon Dewayne Dixon, 39, previously pleaded guilty to witness tampering by killing.

At approximately 3:00 a.m. on July 12, 2014, Dixon lured Branda Mae Delight Basham, the murder victim, to a secluded section of railroad track in Charleston near the 700 block of Breece Street. At gunpoint, Dixon forced Basham to admit working with police to make undercover purchases of heroin from him. He then repeatedly shot Basham with a 9 mm pistol, killing her. She was 22 years old. After the murder, Dixon went to a nearby residence on Madison Street where he cleaned himself and disposed of his clothing. The next day, police interviewed a local woman who identified the Madison Street residence where she had seen Dixon shortly before the time of the murder.

Detectives from the Charleston Police Department executed a search warrant at the Madison Street residence. Police seized video from a surveillance camera that recorded Dixon wiping down the front door of the residence and carrying away several bags. Detectives also seized a pair of Dixon’s shoes found at the residence. Basham’s DNA was recovered from bloodstains on the shoes.

On July 17, 2014, Dixon surrendered to Charleston Police. He waived his Miranda rights and confessed to killing Basham. He admitted that he intended to retaliate against Basham for cooperating with law enforcement and to prevent her from testifying against him. 

At the time of the murder, Dixon had been previously convicted of several felony offenses. These include federal drug trafficking convictions in 1999 and 2006, and a Kanawha County conviction of malicious wounding in 2007.

“Branda Basham’s murder is a horrible tragedy and a stark reminder of the enormous cost of drug crime. I want the Basham family to know that the prosecutors and law enforcement who took part in this investigation join me in sending our deepest condolences,” said Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. “Heroin and opioid trafficking has ravaged our community, which is why aggressively prosecuting violent drug dealers like Marlon Dixon, along with supporting treatment options for recovering addicts, remains a top priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners. It is also important to note the courage of citizens who came forward to provide crucial information that led to Dixon’s arrest and prosecution. We must all continue working together if we want to effectively fight the drug epidemic.”

This case was investigated by the Charleston Police Department, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by working with existing local programs targeting gun violence. This case was also prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat illegal drugs in our communities, including the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A New York City woman pleaded guilty yesterday to credit card fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Nayosha Aice, 25, entered her guilty plea to the felony offense of possession of 15 or more counterfeit access devices. A counterfeit access device is a credit card that has been altered to contain stolen account information that is magnetically re-encoded on the credit card. 

Aice admitted that she, along with a codefendant, possessed 78 counterfeit access devices. Aice drove from New York City, using these counterfeit credit cards to buy cartons of Newport cigarettes and other merchandise. She was observed at the St. Albans Go-Mart using multiple counterfeit cards on June 25, 2015, and after noticing the suspicious behavior, store employees contacted law enforcement. Once observed by police, Aice attempted to throw the credit cards away in a nearby store. Officers recovered the credit cards and subsequently confirmed that the credit cards were counterfeit access devices.

Aice faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine when she is sentenced on September 15, 2016. Her codefendant, Sasha Nelson, is scheduled for trial on June 21, 2016. Nelson is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The St. Albans Police Department and the United States Secret Service conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Erik S. Goes and Eric Bacaj are in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Terrance Wilson, 27, entered his guilty plea to distributing crack.

Wilson admitted that on January 25, 2016, he sold crack to a confidential informant working with law enforcement authorities. The drug deal took place at a local business on Bigley Avenue in Charleston. Wilson further admitted that he also sold crack to a confidential informant on January 26 and 27, 2016.  

Wilson faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 14, 2016.

This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This prosecution was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat illegal drugs in our communities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.  

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BECKLEY, W.Va. – Two men were sentenced today for federal drug crimes, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Wilbur Arnold, Jr., 50, of White Sulphur Springs, was sentenced to three years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine. In a separate prosecution, Michael Shepard, 23, of Beckley, was sentenced to ten months in federal prison for distribution of heroin.

Arnold admitted that on July 22, 2015, law enforcement authorities seized cocaine from his home that he intended to distribute. Along with the cocaine, Arnold further admitted to the possession of two handguns.

In a separate drug prosecution, Shepard admitted that on January 7, 2015, he sold heroin to a confidential informant cooperating with law enforcement. The drug deal took place on Hartley Avenue in Beckley.

The Arnold case was investigated by the Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Department and the Greenbrier Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force conducted the investigation of Shepard. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentences.

These cases were prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat illegal drugs in our communities. The United States Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.  

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – An Ohio man pleaded guilty today to a federal sex crime involving minors, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Robert N. Bray, III, 38, of Logan, Ohio, entered his guilty plea to enticing minors to engage in sexual activity.

Bray admitted that in July 2015, he used a computer and cell phone to communicate with an individual he believed to be the mother of a 10-year-old female and a 5-year-old male in Parkersburg. In reality, Bray was communicating with an undercover law enforcement officer. Bray continued communicating with the undercover officer, thinking he was arranging to engage in sexual activity with the minors. Bray arranged a meeting on July 22, 2015, and when he arrived in West Virginia, he was arrested. That same day, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Bray’s Ohio residence and seized a computer containing almost 300 images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

Bray faces a federal prison sentence of 10 years, followed by 20 years of supervised release. Bray will also be required to register as a sex offender. Sentencing is scheduled for September 7, 2016.

This prosecution is the culmination of a comprehensive investigation conducted by the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Parkersburg Police Department, the Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force, the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, the Hocking County, Ohio, Sheriff’s Office, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the FBI.

Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This case is being brought as part of an ongoing initiative of the United States Attorney’s Office to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man who illegally possessed a firearm was sentenced today to nine months in federal prison, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Shane Patrick Masters, 46, previously pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a domestic violence crime.

On July 2, 2015, Masters traveled to the 26th Street Drinkery, a bar in Huntington. Masters had a handgun in his vehicle when he arrived at the bar where he met and had drinks with two other individuals. Later on in the early morning hours, those two individuals came into possession of the gun and provided it to officers with the Huntington Police Department. Masters was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2015 domestic battery conviction in Wayne County.

The Huntington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by working with existing local programs that target gun crime.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man who was caught with heroin pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. James Lennon Pace, 27, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute heroin.

On June 26, 2015, an officer with the Huntington Police Department observed Pace walking along the 1400 block of 10th Avenue in Huntington. Officers had been looking for Pace as a suspect in an unrelated crime. When approached by law enforcement, Pace gave the officer a false name and repeatedly placed his hands in his pockets. Officers detained Pace and discovered approximately 39 grams of heroin in one of Pace’s pockets. Pace admitted that he intended to distribute the heroin.

On September 22, 2015, agents with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at 1201 Charleston Avenue in Huntington after observing Pace leave the residence. During the search, agents seized over 360 grams of heroin, some of which was mixed with fentanyl – an opiate painkiller roughly 40 to 50 times more powerful than pure heroin. Agents also seized firearms, over $4,000 in cash, a press used to prepare heroin, and other drug paraphernalia.  

Pace faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 6, 2016.

The Huntington Police Department and the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Columbus man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jharel Daivon Kirkland, 27, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute heroin.

On January 27, 2016, officers with the Huntington Police Department’s Special Emphasis Unit were conducting surveillance at a known drug residence in Huntington when they observed Kirkland enter the residence. Officers learned that the vehicle Kirkland was driving had been stolen in Columbus, and law enforcement conducted a traffic stop when Kirkland left the residence. Kirkland was arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle. During a search of Kirkland after his arrest, an officer located approximately 30 grams of heroin. Kirkland admitted that he intended to distribute the heroin. 

Kirkland faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 6, 2016.

The Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two defendants pleaded guilty today to federal drug crimes, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jamarrio Dobbs, 35, of Detroit, pleaded guilty to distribution of heroin. In a separate drug prosecution, Keri Browning, 28, of Logan, pleaded guilty to distribution of oxycodone.

Jamarrio Dobbs admitted that on three occasions in February and March of 2016, he sold heroin to a confidential informant cooperating with law enforcement. On April 27, 2016, law enforcement executed a search warrant on the residence where Dobbs was staying and seized a handgun, over $7,000 in cash, and approximately 48 grams of crack. Dobbs was arrested immediately prior to the search and he informed officers that he had swallowed several bags of heroin. Officers took Dobbs to the hospital for treatment and recovered over two grams of heroin. Dobbs faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 7, 2016.

In a separate prosecution, Keri Browning admitted that on February 4, 2016, she sold oxycodone to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place at Browning’s Rossmore Road residence in Logan. Browning faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on August 25, 2016.

The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation of Dobbs. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is handling the prosecution of Dobbs. The plea hearing for Dobbs was held before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston.

The investigation of Browning was conducted by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney John J. Frail is responsible for Browning’s prosecution. Browning’s plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.

These prosecutions are part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of pills and heroin in communities across the Southern District. 

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BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Greenbrier County man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. James Michael Payne, 63, of Frankford, entered his guilty plea to distribution of heroin.   

Payne admitted that on August 21, 2015, he distributed six stamps, or packets, of heroin to a confidential informant cooperating with law enforcement authorities. The drug deal took place in the Fairlea area of Greenbrier County. Payne also admitted that he distributed a total of approximately 100 stamps of heroin during August and September of 2015. 

Payne faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 31, 2016. 

This case was investigated by the Greenbrier County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney John File is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.

This prosecution was brought as part of the Greenbrier Heroin and Pill Initiative, an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of pills and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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BECKLEY, W.Va. – A former McDowell County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney was sentenced today to a year and a half in federal prison for his conduct related to a federal tax crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jason Ray Grubb, 38, of Beaver, previously pleaded guilty for failing to collect, account for, and pay employment taxes.

Grubb admitted that while working as a lawyer in private practice he withheld payroll taxes from the paychecks of an employee. Instead of withholding and paying those taxes as required under federal law, he kept the money and did not pay the Internal Revenue Service. Grubb also admitted that he failed to pay personal income taxes for a number of years, and that he falsified vouchers sent to West Virginia Public Defender Services, including 51 days on which he billed for over 24 hours of work.                

The Court further required Grubb to pay restitution for his failure to pay over $247,000 in federal taxes, overbilling Public Defender Services more than $126,000, and not paying a financing company, Daniels Capital Corporation, for more than $27,000 in advances.

This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation division and the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations. Assistant United States Attorneys Meredith George Thomas and Eric Bacaj handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – An Alabama man who possessed marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and firearms at his residence on Charleston’s West Side was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Michael Anthony Williams, 32, previously pleaded guilty in September 2015.

On March 7, 2014, drug task force officers executed a search warrant at the residence of Williams and Atesha Smith, located on 4th Avenue in Charleston.  Among other items, police seized 10 firearms, including pistols, assault rifles, and a sawed-off shotgun; more than 500 grams of 97% pure methamphetamine; a large quantity of marijuana and oxycodone; over $73,000 in cash; and scales, packaging materials, and a money counter. Smith’s mobile telephone contained a text message with a U.S. Postal Service tracking number assigned to a package to be delivered to the address. A U.S. Postal Inspector intercepted the package and searched it on March 11, 2014. Among other items, the package contained over 500 grams of cocaine. Smith pleaded guilty in September to possession with intent to distribute marijuana and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 6, 2016.

The case was investigated by the United Postal Inspection Service and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.

This prosecution is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District. 

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A former Charleston resident faces up to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty today to failing to register as a sex offender, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. James Roy Arthur, 45, entered his guilty plea before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

Arthur was convicted in 1996 in Kanawha County Circuit Court of Second Degree Sexual Assault. As a result of this conviction, Arthur was required to register as a sex offender. Around January 1, 2016, Arthur moved to Fort Gay in Wayne County, and did not register as a sex offender, despite knowing it was required by law. Arthur continued to reside in Wayne County until his arrest on January 31, 2016. Arthur’s sentencing is scheduled for August 29, 2016.

The United States Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is in charge of the prosecution.

This case is being brought as part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s ongoing initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two men were sentenced today to federal prison for oxycodone crimes, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Kenneth Edward Campbell, 48, of Charleston, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute oxycodone. In a separate drug prosecution, Jonathan Belcher, 37, of Logan, was sentenced to six years in federal prison for distributing oxycodone.

On August 23, 2013, the United States Postal Inspection Service intercepted a package containing oxycodone that had been sent from Detroit to Charleston. An undercover officer posing as a mail carrier delivered the package and confronted the man who accepted delivery. That man told police that Campbell had offered to give him oxycodone if he would allow the drug parcel to be delivered to his residence. Officers used the man to conduct a controlled delivery of the package to Campbell at his place of employment on the West Side of Charleston. Campbell was arrested upon taking possession of the package.

In a separate prosecution, Jonathan Belcher admitted that in August 2014, he sold oxycodone pills to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place at Belcher's residence.

The case against Campbell was investigated by the United Postal Inspection Service and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks is in charge of Campbell's prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed Campbell's sentence. 

The U.S. 119 Drug Task Force investigated the Belcher case. Assistant United States Attorney John J. Frail handled the prosecution of Belcher. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed Belcher's sentence.

These prosecutions are part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of pills and heroin in communities across the Southern District. 

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Detroit drug dealer pleaded guilty today to a federal heroin crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jason Matthew Brown, 35, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute heroin.

Brown admitted that on January 24, 2015, he was traveling with Justin Randolph from Detroit to Charleston with approximately 100 grams of heroin that Brown and Randolph intended to sell. The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department stopped the vehicle and located the heroin, which was hidden in a spare tire in the trunk and wrapped in black tape. Brown further admitted that he had been responsible for bringing up to 1000 grams of heroin from Detroit for distribution in the Rand area of Kanawha County.

Brown faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 31, 2016. Justin Randolph, of Rand, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of heroin and faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 22, 2016.

The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John J. Frail is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston.

This case is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District. 

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