In a shocking turn of events, a Harrison County man has been brought to justice for his involvement in firearms and drug charges. John Soloman Banish, Jr., a 25-year-old resident of West Milford, West Virginia, has been sentenced to 51 months of incarceration for his crimes.
According to authorities, Banish was found in possession of a 9mm pistol and a .380 caliber pistol in April 2020 in Harrison County. This is despite the fact that he is prohibited from having a firearm due to a prior conviction.
The charges against Banish include one count of ‘Unlawful Possession of a Firearm’ and one count of ‘Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.’ These charges were brought to light after a thorough investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police.
Banish, who pled guilty to the charges in November 2020, is set to serve 51 months in prison. This sentence was handed down by Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner on behalf of the government. The investigation into Banish’s activities was a collaborative effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police.
As this case comes to a close, it serves as a reminder of the importance of community safety and the consequences of breaking the law. We urge all residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Defendant: John Soloman Banish, Jr.
Criminal Charges: One count of ‘Unlawful Possession of a Firearm’ and one count of ‘Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.’
City and State: Clarksburg, West Virginia
Date: November 2020 (plea) and April 2020 (crime date)
Sentence: 51 months of incarceration
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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