Boyd Faces Federal Drug & Gun Charges

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Austin Boyd, Jr., a 35-year-old man hailing from Toledo, Ohio, is facing serious federal charges after being indicted by a grand jury on May 16th. Boyd is accused of running a multi-drug operation in Harrison County, West Virginia, and allegedly packed heat while doing it.

According to Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, Boyd was arraigned today on one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin,” one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base,” and one count of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.” The indictment alleges that Boyd was actively involved in distributing these dangerous narcotics within the community.

But the charges don’t stop at drugs. Boyd is also facing a fourth count: “Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime.” Investigators claim Boyd possessed a .38-caliber revolver in connection with his alleged drug distribution activities, escalating the severity of the accusations. The alleged offenses occurred back in September 2016, suggesting a lengthy investigation before the indictment.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook, who will be tasked with building a case against Boyd. Law enforcement sources tell Grimy Times that the investigation was a collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force – a HIDTA-funded initiative – alongside the Bridgeport Police Department. This indicates a focused, multi-agency approach to tackling drug-related crime in the region.

While the indictment lays out the accusations, it’s crucial to remember that it is not a conviction. Boyd is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. However, the charges carry significant penalties if he is convicted, potentially landing him behind bars for a considerable period. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any developments.

This case highlights the ongoing struggle against drug trafficking in West Virginia, a state particularly hard hit by the opioid crisis. The combination of heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, coupled with the presence of a firearm, paints a picture of a dangerous individual allegedly profiting from the misery of others. The HIDTA funding underscores the federal government’s commitment to combating these types of criminal enterprises.

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