William A. Novick, Fentanyl Distribution, West Virginia 2017

WHEELING, West Virginia – A Marshall County man was sentenced to 15 months incarceration for fentanyl distribution, a stark reminder of the opioid epidemic ravaging the nation.

Defendant William A. Novick, age 35, of McMechen, West Virginia, was found guilty of distributing fentanyl in proximity to a protected location. This egregious offense took place in February 2017, mere steps away from Center McMechen Elementary School in Marshall County.

The defendant's guilty plea was entered in September 2017, marking a significant milestone in the case. United States Attorney Bill Powell announced the sentencing, underscoring the gravity of the offense.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., prosecuted the case on behalf of the government, working tirelessly to ensure justice was served. The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, led the investigation.

U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided over the case, delivering a verdict that reflected the severity of the offense. The defendant's actions posed a significant threat to the safety and well-being of the community, particularly the children attending the elementary school.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic on communities nationwide. As the nation grapples with this crisis, it is crucial to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

In light of this verdict, we must reiterate our commitment to addressing the opioid epidemic head-on. It is only through collective efforts that we can hope to mitigate the damage caused by this scourge.

Defendant William A. Novick was sentenced to 15 months incarceration for fentanyl distribution, a clear indication of the severity of the offense. The case highlights the importance of vigilant law enforcement and the need for continued support in the fight against opioid abuse.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/marshall-county-man-sentenced-drug-distribution-charge-0