Parkersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Methamphetamine Distribution and Firearm Offenses

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man has admitted to distributing methamphetamine and selling an unregistered firearm, marking a significant development in a federal drug trafficking investigation. On Monday, Aaron Lee Mitter, 39, pleaded guilty in federal court to the distribution of a quantity of methamphetamine, according to Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston.

The plea stems from a drug transaction that occurred on July 11, 2024, when Mitter sold approximately 24.52 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in exchange for $280. As part of his plea agreement, Mitter not only admitted to this transaction but also acknowledged selling an unregistered, privately made firearm, commonly referred to as a “ghost gun,” along with a 45-round extended magazine, for $400 on the same day.

Ghost guns, which are often assembled from kits and lack serial numbers, are increasingly concerning to law enforcement agencies due to their untraceable nature and ease of access. Mitter’s sale of such a weapon adds a disturbing layer to the case, intertwining both illegal narcotics distribution and the circulation of dangerous, unregistered firearms.

Six days after the sale, on July 17, 2024, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at a Parkersburg apartment where Mitter was residing. During the operation, officers seized approximately 45.67 grams of methamphetamine. Mitter admitted to authorities that he intended to use part of the meth for personal consumption and planned to distribute the remainder.

Mitter now faces significant federal penalties, including a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine. His sentencing is scheduled for September 22, 2025, before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.

Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa G. Johnston credited the collaborative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Wood County Sheriff’s Office, and the Parkersburg Police Department in bringing this case to resolution. The investigation was part of a broader initiative targeting the illegal drug trade and the proliferation of unregistered firearms in the region.

Assistant United States Attorney JC MacCallum is prosecuting the case.

As the opioid and methamphetamine crisis continues to impact communities across West Virginia, federal and local authorities emphasize the importance of vigilance, cooperation, and aggressive prosecution of those involved in trafficking and weapon-related crimes.

Anyone with information about illegal drug activity is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or federal authorities through confidential tip lines.