10 people arrested in Ohio Valley drug bust

OHIO — Ten individuals from Ohio and West Virginia have been indicted for drug trafficking, marking a significant step in the ongoing battle against substance abuse in the region.

United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced the indictments, which include charges for distributing fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. Two of the accused also face charges for illegal firearm possession.

“Continued pressure from law enforcement on drug traffickers will ensure that the downward trend in overdoses we are experiencing continues,” Ihlenfeld said.

“This latest round of indictments, combined with ongoing treatment and prevention efforts, will help to loosen the grip that addiction has upon communities in West Virginia.”

Eight of the ten individuals charged have been apprehended. Among those arrested are:

Antoine Blanchard, 49, of Steubenville, OH, known as “Reggie” and “Cadillac Hill,” facing charges for cocaine and methamphetamine distribution.

Harold Wayne Nice, 40, of Wheeling, WV, charged with methamphetamine distribution.

Robert Kelly Rogers, 51, of Wheeling, WV, charged with methamphetamine and heroin distribution.

Charles Smith Rippy, 69, of Wheeling, WV, charged with cocaine base distribution.

Stephen J. Booker, 31, of Wheeling, WV, known as “Flock,” charged with methamphetamine and heroin distribution as well as unlawful firearm possession.

Alyssa Marie Abrigg, 33, of Wheeling, WV, charged with fentanyl and methamphetamine distribution.

Don Speir McFarland, 30, of Wheeling, WV, charged with fentanyl and methamphetamine distribution.

Jeremy Brandon Evans, 35, of Columbus, OH, charged with intent to distribute methamphetamine and unlawful firearm possession.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carly Nogay and Clayton Reid are handling the cases for the government.

The investigation was led by the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, part of the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program, with support from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The Task Force comprises members from the Wheeling Police Department, the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the West Virginia State Police.

This operation is part of an ongoing effort to tackle drug distribution and its devastating effects on local communities.