Detroit man admits to drug charge

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard Kirkland Johnson, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

Johnson, 25, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.” Johnson admitted to having fentanyl in September 2020 in Monongalia County.

Johnson faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.