Emory Chiles, Heroin Trafficking, West Virginia 2018
Emory Chiles Sentenced to 30 Years for Heroin Trafficking and Firearms Charges
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - In a landmark case, Emory Chiles, a 43-year-old man from Steubenville, Ohio, was sentenced to 360 months in prison for heroin trafficking and firearms charges.
The case dates back to November 2017 when Chiles was found guilty of possessing heroin with the intent to distribute, using a firearm during and in relation to a drug offense, and unlawful possession of a firearm in Monongalia County. A jury reached this verdict in April 2018.
Chiles' sentencing is a significant blow to those involved in the heroin trade and highlights the seriousness of the crime. "When illegal drug distribution is combined with firearms, it represents a clear and present danger to the citizens of this district and won't be tolerated," said United States Attorney Bill Powell.
Chiles' previous felony conviction in the Northern District of West Virginia also contributed to his sentence. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Monongalia County Sheriff's Office investigated the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided over the case.
The sentence sends a strong message to those involved in heroin trafficking and firearms charges that they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. "Drug dealers with guns are violent criminals who pose an increased threat to the safety of our communities," stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Stuart Lowrey of the Louisville Field Division.
Emory Chiles
Defendant: Emory Chiles
Criminal Charges: Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin, Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
City and State: CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA
Date: 2017-11 and 2018-04
Sentence: 360 months in prison
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →