West Virginia Nightclub Owner and Two Associates Convicted in Major Drug Conspiracy

A federal jury has found Mike Sheriff Scott, the owner of a Morgantown nightclub, along with Rachelle Gaston and Phineas Chaplin, guilty of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. The verdict concluded a seven-day trial, during which evidence revealed that Scott, 47, used his establishment, CowGirlz Nightclub, as a hub for drug trafficking, including methamphetamine and fentanyl. Gaston, 41, and Chaplin, 42, were also implicated in the operation. Scott and Gaston were convicted on additional charges of aiding and abetting the maintenance of a drug-involved premise, and Scott also faced a conviction for unlawful possession of a firearm.

The jury heard testimony and reviewed evidence indicating that Scott utilized the yet-to-be-opened CowGirlz Nightclub on Earl Core Road in Morgantown as a front to distribute illicit drugs. He was also found to have stored his supply of controlled substances, obtained from out-of-state, at the location. Furthermore, the evidence presented suggested that Scott employed individuals struggling with substance abuse disorders to undertake renovations on the nightclub, compensating them with controlled substances rather than monetary payment.

The investigation gained significant momentum following a shooting incident in Monongalia County. Investigators were led to obtain a search warrant for the nightclub after reviewing surveillance footage that depicted Chaplin firing at a vehicle. The same footage also showed Scott appearing to clean up shell casings from the crime scene. A subsequent search of the nightclub uncovered a hidden compartment within the stairs leading to Scott’s office. Concealed within this compartment were five pistols, including two firearms linked to the shooting, along with ammunition. The search also resulted in the seizure of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and drug paraphernalia. Further evidence emerged from recorded jail calls, in which Scott, while incarcerated, allegedly continued to attempt to manage the drug trafficking organization and solicited others to destroy evidence.

Chaplin had previously entered guilty pleas to separate felony drug and firearms charges related to this case. Sentencing for Scott and Gaston will be determined by a federal district court judge, who will consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Eleanor F. Hurney. The investigation involved the collaborative efforts of the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case is part of “Operation Take Back America,” a national initiative aimed at combating cartels, transnational criminal organizations, violent crime, and illegal immigration.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of West Virginia.

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