Oak Hill man sentenced to 20 years for felony drug conspiracy

OAK HILL, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Jacob William Edward Ross, 27, of Oak Hill, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for felony drug conspiracy on September 24, 2024.

Circuit Judge Paul M. Blake Jr. handed down the sentence, which was doubled due to Ross’ status as a repeat drug offender.

Ross pled guilty to conspiracy to violate the Uniform Controlled Substances Act on July 24, 2024.

This is not his first felony conviction; in 2018, Ross was convicted of felony drug conspiracy in Cabell County and felony aiding an adult in confinement in Fayette County.

The latest charges stem from a November 8, 2023, traffic stop in Oak Hill.

Police pulled over Ross for an expired vehicle registration. A search of the vehicle uncovered approximately half a pound of methamphetamine, along with drug paraphernalia.

The passenger in Ross’ vehicle was also found carrying a semi-automatic pistol and additional drugs. Ross admitted to providing the firearm to his passenger as they traveled to Beckley to purchase drugs for resale in Fayette County.

Ross must serve at least five years before becoming eligible for parole.

The Oak Hill Police Department conducted the investigation, and Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Jennifer D. Crane prosecuted the case.