West Virginia Man Indicted on Meth and Cocaine Charges

Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess Meth and Cocaine Lands Man in Hot Water

A West Virginia man has been indicted on charges of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine. Durell Anthony Jones, 33, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was named as the sole defendant in a two-count indictment returned on November 13.

According to the complaint, Jones was observed by law enforcement officers parking near a tractor trailer with California tags in the back of a gas station in Portersville, Pennsylvania, on October 21, 2018. He then drove a Kia Sedan onto Interstate 79, southbound, where he was stopped by a trooper from the Pennsylvania State Police.

During the stop, Jones provided his name and date of birth, and State Police were able to determine that he had an active warrant in Michigan. A search of the Kia revealed approximately 55.5 kilograms (122 pounds) of methamphetamine and approximately 4.58 kilograms (10 pounds) of cocaine in four separate duffle-type bags.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 25 years in prison, a fine of not more than $25,000,000, or both. The actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation that led to the indictment of Jones. Assistant United States Attorneys Troy Rivetti and Jeffrey R. Bengel are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Jones is set to face the consequences of his alleged actions in court. The investigation and prosecution of this case serve as a reminder of the severity of the consequences for those involved in the distribution and possession of illicit substances.

The case against Jones is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against the scourge of narcotics and the importance of law enforcement’s efforts to combat it. The public can expect the prosecution to be vigorous and thorough, ensuring that justice is served.

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