Hartley Pleads Guilty

Jerry “Jake” Wilson Hartley, of Elkins, West Virginia, has pleaded guilty to his role in a large-scale methamphetamine distribution operation that spanned several years.

Hartley, age 36, admitted to conspiring with others to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine in the Northern District of West Virginia and elsewhere. The crime occurred from May 2013 until October 2016, resulting in a significant impact on the local community.

The guilty plea was announced by Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, who stated that Hartley faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, 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 Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated the case, which was presided over by U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi.

The conviction of Hartley is a significant blow to the methamphetamine trade in West Virginia, which has been plagued by the drug in recent years. The state has seen a surge in methamphetamine-related arrests and overdoses, making cases like this a top priority for law enforcement.

The investigation and prosecution of Hartley’s case demonstrate the commitment of federal and local authorities to combating drug trafficking and distribution in the region. As the case moves forward, Hartley will face the consequences of his actions, and the community will continue to heal and rebuild from the devastating effects of methamphetamine.

In a statement, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen praised the work of the Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and the Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner for their tireless efforts in bringing Hartley to justice. The case serves as a reminder that drug trafficking and distribution will not be tolerated in West Virginia, and those who engage in such activities will be held accountable.

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