CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Philippi man has been given a lengthy prison sentence for his role in a methamphetamine trafficking operation that also involved firearms.
Matthew Scott Upton, 41, was sentenced to 70 months of incarceration for his crimes, which were committed in Barbour County. On September 2018, Upton was found to be in possession of over five grams of methamphetamine, also known as “crystal meth” or “ice,” as well as a 9mm semi-automatic pistol.
Upton, a person prohibited from having firearms because of a prior conviction, admitted to the charges against him. He pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” in July 2020.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosive, the Mountain Region Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, and the Philippi Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided over the sentencing hearing.
The charges against Upton stem from a prior conviction that prohibits him from possessing firearms. Despite this, Upton was found to be in possession of a 9mm semi-automatic pistol during the time in question.
The case highlights the ongoing problem of methamphetamine trafficking in our state and the need for law enforcement to remain vigilant in their efforts to combat it.
The defendant’s sentence reflects the severity of the crimes he committed and the need for him to face consequences for his actions.
The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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