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Oxycodone Traffickers Brought to Justice
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – In a major blow to the multistate oxycodone trafficking operation, two California natives have been sentenced in federal court for their roles in shipping large quantities of prescription painkillers into Marshall County, West Virginia.
Julia Joseph, 45, and Mario O. Garcia, 42, both of Van Nuys, California, pleaded guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Oxycodone. Their actions sent shockwaves through the community, as they worked together to redistribute and sell the highly addictive painkillers.
Garcia was sentenced today to 37 months in prison, a harsh punishment for his role in the operation. Joseph, on the other hand, was handed a lighter sentence, with a 3-year probation term.
The investigation into the oxycodone trafficking operation was a collaborative effort between the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the Drug Enforcement Administration – Los Angeles Field Division Tactical Diversion Squad, and the West Virginia State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McWilliams prosecuted Garcia, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Bernard handled the case against Joseph. U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided over the sentencing hearing.
The sentencing of Joseph and Garcia marks a significant victory in the fight against oxycodone trafficking in West Virginia. The case serves as a warning to those involved in similar operations: the law will catch up to you, and you will face consequences.
The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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RELATED: Fentanyl Traffickers Sentenced to Combined 16 Years in Prison
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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