Kanawha County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Crime

 HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — James Arnold Scott, 45, of Hansford, pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of five grams or more of methamphetamine.

According to his own statements and court documents, on January 17, 2020, Scott aided and abetted one of his drug sources of supply in the distribution of four ounces of methamphetamine to a confidential informant for $1,150.  The drug transaction took place in Huntington.  Scott further admitted that when law enforcement later executed a search warrant at his Hansford residence they seized cash, marijuana, methamphetamine, four firearms, one of which was stolen, and a ballistic vest.

Scott faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on October 12, 2021.

Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Assistant United States Attorney Negar Kordestani is handling the prosecution. 

United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:21-cr-00078.