A Fairmont man was sentenced to five years in prison for distributing methamphetamine in Marion County, West Virginia. James Charles Costello, 53, was sentenced to 60 months of incarceration for his crime, as announced by United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld.
“Distribution of Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine is a serious offense,” Ihlenfeld said.
Costello pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of Distribution of Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine. He admitted to selling 50 grams or more of methamphetamine for $7,500 in July 2020 in Marion County.
The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated the case. The task force is comprised of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the West Virginia State Police, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, the Clarksburg Police Department, and the Bridgeport Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided over the case.
The exact date of the sentencing was not specified, but the crime occurred in July 2020. The defendant will serve 60 months in prison for his crime.
“This sentencing sends a clear message that distributing methamphetamine will not be tolerated in our community,” Ihlenfeld stated.
Costello was sentenced to 60 months of incarceration, with no fine specified. The distribution of methamphetamine is a serious offense, and the defendant will face the consequences of his actions.
The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force played a crucial role in the investigation and prosecution of this case. Their efforts to combat drug trafficking in Marion County are commendable.
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Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Sex Crimes|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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