Leann Marie Keyes, a 42-year-old resident of Beckley, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. The plea was entered in federal court, where documents and statements revealed that between October 2024 and January 2025, Keyes worked with another individual to sell fentanyl in the Southern District of West Virginia.
As part of her plea agreement, Keyes admitted that she and her co-conspirator sold a total of 12.34 grams of fentanyl on four separate occasions. Each transaction involved sales to a confidential informant. Keyes also acknowledged communicating with the informant before each sale, while her co-conspirator handled the actual exchanges at their shared residence in Beckley.
Sentencing for Keyes is set for January 9, 2026. She faces up to 20 years in prison, a minimum of three years of supervised release, and a potential fine reaching $1 million.
Justin Scott Keyes, age 36 and husband to Leann Marie Keyes, also pleaded guilty on September 16, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. His sentencing is scheduled for the same date as his wife’s.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced the guilty pleas and praised the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) along with the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit. This unit includes members from the West Virginia State Police, Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office, and Beckley Police Department.
United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Lesley C. Shamblin is handling prosecution duties.
Further details about this case can be found on the U.S. Attorney’s Office website for the Southern District of West Virginia or by searching Case No. 5:25-cr-73 on PACER.
