Meth Ring Busted Near Glenville State

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury delivered indictments to eleven individuals accused of fueling West Virginia’s opioid crisis with a steady stream of methamphetamine. The charges stem from a months-long investigation into a drug distribution network operating in Gilmer County and beyond, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced today.

The indictment alleges a coordinated conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, with activity reportedly occurring in the vicinity of Glenville State College. Authorities say the operation ran from July 2018 to November 2018, poisoning communities and preying on vulnerable residents. The scope of the distribution network is still being assessed, but investigators believe it extended beyond Gilmer County.

Those charged include: Cory Davonta Smith, Jr., age 26, of Barberton, Ohio; Michael Anthony Hill, Jr., age 24, of Columbus, Ohio; Waitman Larry Frederick, age 41, of Glenville, West Virginia; Tressie Lenee Payne, age 23, of Normantown, West Virginia; Jeremiah Lee Carr, age 31, of Glenville, West Virginia; Brandi Dawn Singleton, age 41, of Burnsville, West Virginia; Chet Atkins Massey, age 50, of Sand Fork, West Virginia; Jerry Lee Boyers, age 41, of Glenville, West Virginia; Joseph Lee Frederick, age 35, of Duck, West Virginia; Kisha Starr Riggs, age 31, of Glenville, West Virginia; and Duncan Currie Canter, age 24, of Burnsville, West Virginia.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is leading the prosecution, aiming to dismantle this alleged drug pipeline. The investigation was spearheaded by the Mountain Lakes Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, which has been working tirelessly to combat the spread of illicit substances in the region. Sources within the task force suggest this is just one piece of a larger puzzle, with more arrests anticipated.

While the indictment represents a significant step forward, authorities are quick to emphasize that it’s merely an accusation. Each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The legal process will unfold, and the evidence presented will determine their fate. But for now, these eleven individuals are facing serious federal charges that could carry substantial penalties.

Grimy Times will continue to follow this case closely, providing updates as they become available. The fight against drug trafficking in West Virginia remains a critical battle, and we are committed to exposing the individuals and networks responsible for bringing poison into our communities. Stay tuned for further developments.

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