Edgar Eugene Hatten, Distribution of Methamphetamine, West Virginia 2021

A 40-year-old Wheeling man has been accused of selling methamphetamine in a protected location.

Edgar Eugene Hatten, 40, was indicted on one count of "Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 Feet of a Protected Location." The alleged crime occurred on July 20, 2021 near Clator Playground in Wheeling.

According to the indictment, Hatten sold methamphetamine in close proximity to the playground, a protected location under federal law. Hatten faces severe penalties if convicted, including 1 year to 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000.

The indictment is simply an accusation, and Hatten is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. The actual sentence will be determined by the seriousness of the offense and Hatten’s prior criminal history, if any.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated the case.

Hatten’s case is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle to combat the opioid epidemic in Wheeling and surrounding areas. The indictment and prosecution of individuals who sell methamphetamine and other controlled substances are crucial in protecting the community and preventing further harm.

It is essential to note that an indictment is not a conviction. The case will proceed to trial, and Hatten will have the opportunity to defend himself against the charges. The outcome of the case will be determined by the evidence presented in court and the verdict of the jury.

MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS

Drug Trafficking

Tabitha Marie Ochoa, Heroin Trafficking, New Mexico 2017

May 19, 2017

Drug Trafficking

Luis Cabrera, Heroin, Fentanyl, Methamphetamine Trafficking, New Jersey 2020

Aug 24, 2022

Drug Trafficking

Wayne Willey, Methamphetamine Possession, New Hampshire 2012

Apr 8, 2015

Drug Trafficking

Tabatha Case, Methamphetamine Distribution, Wisconsin 2019

Mar 12, 2019