WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A grim chapter in Wheeling’s drug underworld has come to a close as Joshua Carney, 32, has admitted to a litany of federal drug charges. The Ohio County man is now staring down the barrel of a potential life sentence for his role in peddling deadly substances on local streets.
Carney, who called Wheeling home, faced a federal court judge and confessed to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base, fentanyl, and heroin. He also pleaded guilty to distributing 5 grams or more of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of Ritchie Elementary School—a protected location—just last June.
According to court documents, Carney was no lone wolf in his crime spree. He worked with a notorious crew to sell illicit drugs throughout Ohio County. The drug kingpin’s actions have been a blight on the community, and now he faces up to 20 years for conspiracy and at least 5 years and up to 80 years for distribution.
The judge will weigh the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors before handing down Carney’s sentence. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay is leading the charge against Carney, representing the government in this harrowing case.
The investigation into Carney’s activities was a collaborative effort by several law enforcement agencies. Key players included the Ohio Valley Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Wheeling Police Department. U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided over the hearing, ensuring that justice would be served.
Carney’s guilty plea is a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in West Virginia. The community can now hope for a safer future as Carney faces the harsh consequences of his actions.
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Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Sex Crimes|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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