A Wheeling man has admitted to selling fentanyl near a protected location, sparking a federal investigation. Travis E. Vossen, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of Distribution of Fentanyl within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location in a court hearing held today.
The crime took place in May 2021 near Ritchie Elementary School in Ohio County, West Virginia. According to officials, Vossen sold fentanyl in close proximity to the school, putting the lives of students and staff at risk.
As a result of the guilty plea, Vossen faces a minimum of one year and up to 40 years of incarceration. In addition to the prison sentence, he may also be required to pay a fine of up to $2,000,000.
The sentence will be determined by the seriousness of the offense and Vossen’s prior criminal history, if any. Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid is handling the case on behalf of the government.
The investigation was conducted by the Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided over the hearing.
The case serves as a reminder of the dangers of fentanyl and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. As the federal government continues to crack down on drug trafficking, cases like this will help to keep communities safe.
Travis E. Vossen’s crime is a serious offense that carries significant consequences. His admission of guilt and the resulting sentence will serve as a deterrent to others who would engage in similar activities.
Related Federal Cases
- Deontre Christian Johnson, Fentanyl Distribution, West Virginia 2024 · Ohio
- Deontre Christian Johnson, Fentanyl Distribution, West Virginia 2024 · Delaware
- Darion D. Jackson, Fentanyl Distribution, West Virginia 2023 · West Virginia
- Jermaine Lee Smith, Aiding Fentanyl Distribution, West Virginia 2022 · West Virginia
- Rashun Rafael Suncar, Fentanyl Distribution, Wheeling, West Virginia, 2026 · West Virginia
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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