David Ray Deberry, Methamphetamine Distribution, West Virginia 2018

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Preston County man has been caught up in a web of methamphetamine distribution and gun charges, according to court documents. David Ray Deberry, 34, of Terra Alta, West Virginia, pleaded guilty today to one count of ‘Conspiracy to Distribute More Than Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine’ and one count of ‘Unlawful Possession of Firearm as Felon.’

Deberry admitted to working with others to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine from February 2017 to June 2018 in Harrison County and elsewhere. This illicit activity has severe consequences for our communities, and we will continue to hold those responsible accountable.

As part of his guilty plea, Deberry also admitted to having a .45 caliber pistol in January 2018 in Marion County. This was a blatant disregard for the law, and Deberry’s actions put innocent lives at risk.

Deberry faces at least five years and up to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the conspiracy charge. He also faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms charge. The actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.

Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided over the case. Deberry’s actions are a stark reminder of the devastating impact of methamphetamine distribution and gun violence in our communities.

District officials say they will continue to work tirelessly to dismantle these types of operations and bring perpetrators to justice. The community can rest assured that those who engage in this type of illicit activity will be held accountable for their actions.

Related Federal Cases