Jane Grace Dawson, Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, West Virginia 2019

A 31-year-old Wetzel County woman has admitted to her role in a heroin distribution ring operating in the region.

Jane Grace Dawson, of New Martinsville, West Virginia, pleaded guilty to one count of "Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin." Dawson admitted to working with others to distribute heroin in Wetzel County and elsewhere from March 2019 to August 2019.

According to U.S. Attorney Bill Powell, Dawson faces up to 20 years incarceration 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.

The investigation was led by the West Virginia State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

The case was heard by U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone.

Dawson's guilty plea brings an end to a nearly year-long investigation into heroin distribution in the region. The case has resulted in significant charges against Dawson and her co-conspirators.

As the region continues to grapple with the opioid epidemic, the conviction of Jane Grace Dawson serves as a reminder of the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/wetzel-county-woman-admits-heroin-distribution