Beckley man pleads guilty to federal methamphetamine distribution charge

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Lisa G. Johnston Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia | Department of Justice

Beckley man pleads guilty to federal methamphetamine distribution charge

James Tilford Bradley, a 50-year-old resident of Beckley, pleaded guilty on Apr. 15 to the federal charge of distributing methamphetamine.

Bradley's plea comes as part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address drug-related crimes in the region. The case highlights continued collaboration between local and federal authorities targeting illegal drug sales.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Bradley sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant for $100 on February 13, 2024, in a business parking lot in Beckley. As part of his guilty plea, he also admitted to additional sales of methamphetamine on February 14, February 28, and July 22 of the same year—each time involving transactions with a confidential informant.

Bradley is scheduled for sentencing on August 7, where he faces up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a possible fine reaching $1 million. United States Attorney Moore Capito said he commended the investigative work conducted by the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit. This unit includes officers from the West Virginia State Police, Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office, and Beckley Police Department.

United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over Bradley's hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Brian D. Parsons is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release can be found on the website for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents are available through PACER by searching Case No. 5:25-cr-117.