CLARKSBURG, W.Va. – A Fairmont resident has admitted in federal court to his role in distributing fentanyl following an investigation by multiple agencies. Charles Bell, 25, admitted to possessing fentanyl in March of 2021.
U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia, Bill Ilhenfeld said their aggressive efforts continue throughout the area.
“It’s sad, I don’t think it’s an insurmountable problem,” Ihlenfeld said. “I continue to remain optimistic that we’re going to get through this, but there’s a lot work to be done.”
Treatment options, and communicating with those addicted is the other side of the issue. But, education and efforts like the Mountaineer Fentanyl Education Task Force are important parts of informing the public about this dangerous drug.
“The prevention piece and the education piece and engaging with the community,” Ilhenfeld said. ” If we don’t do that we’re missing a big part of the solution here.”
Bell faces up to 20-years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million.