CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Anna May Martin, 32, of Westover, West Virginia, is headed to federal prison after being sentenced today for her involvement in a drug distribution scheme. The sentence, handed down by Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley, amounts to 12 months incarceration, a grim reminder that dealing in misery carries serious consequences.
Martin pled guilty in October 2017 to one count of “Unlawful Use of Communication Facility.” But don’t let the technical charge fool you. According to court documents, Martin wasn’t just making calls; she was actively using a phone to facilitate the distribution of oxycodone and help run a full-blown conspiracy. The crimes unfolded in Monongalia County back in March 2017, adding to the region’s ongoing battle with opioid abuse.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley, prosecuting the case for the government, built a solid case demonstrating Martin’s central role. The investigation wasn’t a solo effort, however. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, spent months piecing together the evidence, tracking phone records, and building a case that ultimately led to Martin’s conviction.
The scope of the investigation reached beyond local resources. Federal funding from the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF) was crucial. OCDETF provides the financial muscle and coordination needed for federal and state agencies to effectively target major drug trafficking organizations – and the smaller players who enable them. This wasn’t just about one dealer; it was about disrupting a network.
The oxycodone epidemic continues to ravage communities across West Virginia, and federal prosecutors are determined to hold those responsible accountable. While a 12-month sentence may seem short to some, it’s a clear message: profiting from addiction will not be tolerated. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the ongoing efforts to dismantle drug rings operating within the state.
United States Attorney Bill Powell announced the sentencing, emphasizing the importance of collaborative law enforcement efforts. The investigation highlights the dedication of the Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force and the vital role OCDETF plays in supporting these critical operations. This case serves as a stark warning to others involved in the illegal drug trade: you will be caught, and you will face justice.
Related Federal Cases
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- Beckley Heroin Dealer Gets 27 Months · West Virginia
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- Oxycodone Deal Lands St. Albans Woman 5 Years Probation · West Virginia
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: Official Source ↗
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