Che Dushon Lark Sentenced to 20 Years for Heroin & Meth Distribution

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A relentless crime wave was halted as Che Dushon Lark, 48, of Charleston, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine.

Lark’s descent into darkness began on March 6, 2020, when he parked his vehicle without permission and was caught with a package containing illegal drugs. The spree didn’t end there. After a high-speed chase that culminated in the tragic death of Heather Ross, Lark abandoned his car and ran.

Law enforcement finally caught up with Lark six months later in Ohio, where he was found hiding under insulation and carrying false identification. His addiction to drugs turned him into a distributor, using intermediaries and cell phones to spread poison. On February 23, 2021, Lark’s girlfriend sold meth to an informant after Lark orchestrated the deal.

But Lark’s reign of terror didn’t stop there. His associate, Rebecca Dunlap, was caught with drugs meant for him, providing more evidence against Lark. Dunlap, like Lark, faces her own sentence after pleading guilty to drug conspiracy charges.

Lark has a sordid criminal history, including prior convictions across multiple states. Today, justice has been served, as the United States Attorney’s Office and law enforcement agencies celebrated their work in bringing this dangerous individual to his knees.

United States Attorney Will Thompson commended the investigative efforts of the Charleston Police Department, DEA, MDENT, and West Virginia State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Brian D. Parsons and Nowles Heinrich prosecuted the case with determination. Lark’s sentence is a stark reminder of the consequences faced by those who choose the dark path of drug trafficking.

A copy of this press release can be found on the U.S. Attorney’s Office website, along with related court documents on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-84.