City Police Get Assist on Work through Task Force on Man Sentenced 10 Years for Fentanyl Distribution
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on February 18, 2025
FROM THE OFFICE OF THE U.S. ATTORNEY, NORTHERN DISTRICT OF WEST VIRGINIA
A Pennsylvania resident has been sentenced for drug related charges in the Northern District of West Virginia. Jo-El Torres, 40, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to l0 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
During a traffic stop in Clarksburg, West Virginia, a K9 officer positively alerted for the presence of drugs in a vehicle occupied by Torres. Torres was directed to exit the vehicle. At that point, Torres attempted to swallow a bag and its contents. Officers were able to subdue him and retrieve the bag. Subsequent lab tests confirmed that the bag contained fentanyl and other drugs.
This is the third federal drug conviction for Torres. Torres will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The matter was investigated by the Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA funded initiative; the Harrison County Sheriff s Office; the Clarksburg Police Department; and the West Virginia State Police. U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
The Bridgeport Police Department has members on the Task Force.
Editor's Note: Photo from the West Virginia Regional Jails Website.
