Detroit man admits to his role in a drug conspiracy

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William D. Charleston, of Detroit, Michigan, has admitted to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.

Charleston, also known as “Jay,” 41, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl in Proximity to a Protected Location.” Charleston admitted to distributing heroin and fentanyl near Fairmont Senior High School and Fairmont State University in August 2020.

Charleston faces at least one and up 40 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000 for each charge. 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 Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Three Rivers Drug Task Force investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.