Zachary Mitchem’s West Virginia Meth and Heroin Bust
A Beckley man has pleaded guilty to a federal drug crime, marking another blow to the opioid epidemic plaguing the nation. Zachary Mitchem, 36, of Beckley, pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to deliver methamphetamine and heroin.
According to court documents, Mitchem was found passed out in a car parked in front of a local business near Beckley on July 5, 2019. When a law enforcement officer came to check on Mitchem, she observed what she suspected to be controlled substances in Mitchem’s car. The officer then conducted a search of the car and found approximately 21 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 14 grams of heroin.
The officer also found a gun, which Mitchem was prohibited from possessing due to previous felony convictions. After his arrest, Mitchem admitted that he intended to distribute the drugs in and around Raleigh County.
Mitchem faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on November 5, 2021. Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Beckley Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is handling the prosecution.
This case is a stark reminder of the ongoing opioid crisis and the need for continued efforts to combat it. As we continue to investigate and prosecute those responsible for fueling this epidemic, we owe it to the victims and their families to bring justice and accountability.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-cr-00032.
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- Donald Cantrell, Methamphetamine Trafficking, West Virginia, 2023 · Texas
- Anthony D. Latham, Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, West Virginia, … · West Virginia
- Keith Antonio Cohens, Heroin Distribution, West Virginia 2023 · West Virginia
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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