LKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – In a shocking turn of events, two Buckhannon residents have admitted to their roles in a methamphetamine distribution operation. Amanda Mae Bachman, also known as “AB,” age 33, and Steven Larry Harper, also known as “Skip,” age 40, each pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.”
The crime, which occurred in Upshur County and elsewhere from March 2016 to September 2017, involved more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Bachman and Harper admitted to conspiring with others to distribute the illicit substance.
According to court documents, Bachman and Harper face up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
The investigation into Bachman and Harper’s activities was a joint effort between several law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, The Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the West Virginia State Police, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, the Buckhannon Police Department, and the Weston Police Department.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF), which provides critical federal funding and coordination to allow federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael Aloi presided over the proceedings. Bachman and Harper’s next court appearance is pending. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner.
Defendant Information:
Amanda Mae Bachman, also known as “AB,” age 33, and Steven Larry Harper, also known as “Skip,” age 40, each pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.”
Criminal Charges:
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
City and State:
Buckhannon, West Virginia
Date:
March 2016 to September 2017
Sentence or Outcome:
Amanda Mae Bachman and Steven Larry Harper face up to life incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000,000.
Dollar Amounts:
$10,000,000 (fine)
50 grams (methamphetamine amount)
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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