WV Man Accused of Cross-State Heist: $16K in Bonds & Stolen SUV

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Travis Charles White, 43, of Kerens, West Virginia, is facing serious federal charges after allegedly spiriting stolen goods across state lines. U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced the indictment today, detailing a scheme that stretched from the hills of West Virginia to the plains of Colorado and the streets of Pennsylvania.

White has been indicted on two counts of “Interstate Transportation of Stolen Property.” According to the indictment, the alleged crimes took place in February 2017, all originating in Randolph County. The feds say White wasn’t just moving packages; he was moving hot merchandise – specifically, more than $16,000 worth of U.S. Savings Bonds and a 2007 Toyota RAV4.

The investigation, spearheaded by the West Virginia State Police, uncovered evidence suggesting White transported the stolen savings bonds all the way to Colorado. He didn’t stop there. The same indictment alleges he then took the stolen 2007 Toyota RAV4 and drove it into Pennsylvania, attempting to disappear the vehicle across another state line. The specifics of *how* the bonds and vehicle were initially stolen remain sealed, but authorities are clearly building a case around White’s role in their movement.

If convicted, White is looking at a harsh sentence. Each count of Interstate Transportation of Stolen Property carries a potential penalty of up to 10 years behind bars and a hefty fine of up to $250,000. However, Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon, who is prosecuting the case, emphasized that the final sentence will be determined by Federal Sentencing Guidelines, taking into account the severity of the crimes and White’s prior criminal record – if any exists.

This isn’t a simple case of finding stolen property. It’s about actively concealing it, moving it across state lines, and attempting to profit from someone else’s loss. The interstate aspect elevates the charges to a federal level, bringing in the full weight of the U.S. Attorney’s office. The West Virginia State Police’s diligent work laid the foundation for this indictment, and now it’s up to the courts to determine White’s fate.

It’s crucial to remember that an indictment is merely an accusation. Travis Charles White is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments as they unfold. The wheels of justice are turning, and we’ll be here to document every bump in the road.

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