Arthur Ray Elkins, a 60-year-old resident of Chesapeake, West Virginia, received a nine-year prison sentence followed by four years of supervised release for distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. This was announced by United States Attorney Will Thompson.

Court documents reveal that on March 6, 2023, Elkins sold approximately 56 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in exchange for $700. Subsequent controlled purchases from Elkins led law enforcement officers to execute a search warrant at his residence and adjoining garage on March 15, 2023. During the search, officers discovered about 229 grams of methamphetamine, three firearms, and approximately $3,854. Elkins admitted to regularly selling methamphetamine and using it daily; he also stated that he received firearms as payment for the drug.

Further investigation on December 13, 2023, resulted in officers recovering an additional pound of methamphetamine from Elkins. His criminal history includes prior felony convictions such as breaking and entering, grand larceny, forgery, conspiracy to possess with intent to deliver marijuana, unarmed robbery, bank robbery, and conspiracy to steal U.S. Treasury checks from the mail.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the U.S. Route 119 Drug Task Force were commended for their investigative efforts in this case. The sentence was imposed by United States District Judge Irene C. Berger and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samuel D. Marsh.

For further information or related court documents regarding this case (Case No. 2:24-cr-15), individuals can visit the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia or search PACER.