Joshua Mason Trotter, a 44-year-old resident of Crab Orchard, has pleaded guilty to a federal gun crime. The plea was entered in Beckley, West Virginia, where Trotter admitted to being a felon in possession of firearms.
Court documents reveal that on July 1, 2024, Trotter had a Glock model 21 .45-caliber pistol and a CBC model 817 .17-caliber rifle. He also admitted to possessing a high-capacity magazine for .45-caliber ammunition, about 10.51 grams of methamphetamine, and approximately 25.95 grams of para-fluorofentanyl, a synthetic opioid.
Federal law prohibits individuals with prior felony convictions from owning firearms or ammunition. Trotter was aware of this restriction due to his previous conviction for conspiracy to commit possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine in Kanawha County Circuit Court on November 29, 2017.
Trotter's sentencing is set for September 26, 2025. He faces up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced the plea and praised the investigative efforts by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) along with the Raleigh County Sheriff's Office.
The hearing was overseen by United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn. Assistant United States Attorney JC MacCallum is handling the prosecution.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched an enhanced strategy for PSN focusing on community trust and legitimacy as well as strategic enforcement priorities.
Further information can be accessed via the U.S. Attorney’s Office website for the Southern District of West Virginia or through PACER by searching Case No. 5:25-cr-22.
