Four individuals have pled guilty in federal court this week to charges related to fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine trafficking, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced on Apr. 1.
The cases highlight ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address the spread of dangerous drugs in North Central West Virginia and surrounding areas.
Michelle Denise Gallo, 57, of Fairmont, admitted guilt to conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm during a drug crime. According to court documents and statements made in court, Gallo worked with others to sell methamphetamine and other drugs while armed. She faces between 10 years and life for the drug charge and an additional five years to life for the firearms charge.
Lisa Dawn Andrews, 40, of Montrose also pled guilty to conspiracy involving more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Andrews said she worked with others selling methamphetamine in Randolph County and elsewhere; she faces a possible sentence ranging from ten years up to life in federal prison.
Shawn Galin Whitley Jr., 35, from Charlotte, North Carolina admitted possession with intent to distribute fentanyl after officers stopped his vehicle en route from Pittsburgh to Lewis County. Authorities found fentanyl stamps and cash during the stop; a subsequent search uncovered over 3,700 fentanyl stamps at his hotel room. Whitley could receive up to twenty years imprisonment.
Justin Michael Hoover, 35, of Huttonsville pled guilty after admitting he sold five grams or more of methamphetamine from his home; he faces between five and forty years behind bars.
A federal district court judge will determine sentencing based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines as well as other statutory factors. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting these cases for the government.
The Mountain Region Drug Task Force (a HIDTA-funded initiative), U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms & Explosives (ATF), and Lewis County Sheriff’s Office conducted investigations leading up to these pleas.
President Donald Trump designated fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction due its lethality even in trace amounts—a threat that continues drawing attention at national levels through initiatives like Operation Take Back America aimed at eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime.
U.S Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided over proceedings.
