Lansen Waugh, Hydromorphone Distribution, West Virginia 2017

BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – A Bluefield man has been convicted of distributing hydromorphone in the area, putting the lives of many at risk. Lansen Waugh, 38, has pleaded guilty to a federal drug distribution charge, admitting to distributing a quantity of hydromorphone pills to a confidential informant in Princeton on August 8, 2017.

Waugh also admitted to selling hydromorphone pills in Green Valley and in Bluefield, further demonstrating the severity of his actions. The Bluefield Pill Initiative continues, with law enforcement partners such as the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force working tirelessly to curb the flow of illegal opioids.

“The Bluefield Pill Initiative continues,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “My Office, along with law enforcement partners, are committed to curtailing the illegal trafficking of opioid painkillers. Waugh now faces a significant sentence for his reckless, criminal, and dangerous conduct.”

The investigation into Waugh’s activities was led by the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, and Assistant United States Attorney John File will be prosecuting the case. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber will preside over the sentencing hearing, which is set to take place on October 3, 2018.

According to the plea agreement, Waugh faces up to 20 years in prison for his crimes. This sentence is a stark reminder of the consequences of engaging in illegal activities, particularly those that put the lives of others at risk.

The sentencing hearing for Waugh is set to take place on October 3, 2018, where he will face the consequences of his actions. The community can rest assured that law enforcement is committed to keeping the streets safe and putting an end to the flow of illegal opioids.

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