BECKLEY, W.Va. – Stephanie McClung, 48, of Beckley, is trading the hills of West Virginia for a federal prison cell after receiving a 151-month sentence for her role in a cross-country drug trafficking operation. The sentence, handed down by U.S. District Judge Frank W. Volk, comes after McClung pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The case, dubbed “Operation Shutdown Corner,” dismantled a drug trafficking organization (DTO) stretching from California to Raleigh County. U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart didn’t mince words, questioning if the profit was worth the price of freedom. “17 drug traffickers taken down, and 151 months for her work with this organization. Was it worth it?” he stated. The investigation, a collaborative effort between multiple agencies, highlights the relentless pursuit of those poisoning our communities.
Court records reveal McClung’s involvement spanned from June 2018 to September 17, 2019. She wasn’t just a low-level street dealer; she actively participated in the distribution network, receiving significant quantities of controlled substances from other DTO members. The feds found she was knowingly selling methamphetamine and heroin – even to confidential informants working with law enforcement. A clear sign she wasn’t afraid to risk it all for a payout.
But McClung’s actions didn’t stop at simple sales. She willingly allowed her residence to be used as a drop point for drug deliveries. On at least two occasions, large shipments arrived at her address: approximately one pound of methamphetamine and a quantity of heroin. This wasn’t just turning a blind eye; it was active facilitation, making her a crucial link in the supply chain. The Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force played a key role in uncovering this detail.
The successful takedown was a coordinated effort involving the FBI, ATF, USPIS, the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office, Beckley Police Department, and the West Virginia State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Boggess led the prosecution, building a solid case against McClung and her co-conspirators. This wasn’t a single arrest; it was a systematic dismantling of a criminal enterprise.
McClung’s 151-month sentence will be followed by a five-year term of supervised release. Details of the case, including court documents, are available on PACER under Case No. 5:19-cr-00237. For updates on this and other federal cases in the Southern District of West Virginia, follow SDWVNews and USAttyStuart on Twitter. This conviction sends a clear message: those involved in trafficking deadly drugs will face serious consequences.
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Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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