Joseph Garth, Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base, West Virginia 2020

A 24-year-old Ohio man has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, according to U.S. Attorney Bill Powell.

Joseph Garth, also known as “Nephew,” pled guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Garth admitted to selling cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in May 2020 in Ohio County.

Garth faces up to 20 years of 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 Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated the case. The task force includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Virginia State Police, Ohio County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wheeling Police Department. The U.S. Marshal Service, Columbus Police Department Gang Crimes Unit, the Martins Ferry Police Department, and the Bellaire Police Department also assisted.

U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided over the case.

Garth’s guilty plea is a significant blow to the local drug trafficking operation. The investigation and subsequent charges demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combating the problem of illegal drugs in the community.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn M. Adkins and Clayton J. Reid are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

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