West Virginia Men Receive Lengthy Prison Sentences for Firearms Violations

Three individuals in the Northern District of West Virginia have been sentenced to significant prison terms for unlawful firearm possession, according to information released by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia. The sentencings are part of a broader initiative aimed at combating violent crime and illegal activities.

Zachary Mongold, 37, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison. His conviction stems from the unlawful possession of a firearm discovered during a traffic stop conducted by the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office. The search of his vehicle yielded a firearm and ammunition. Mongold is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior domestic battery conviction. His brother, Jeremy Mongold, faces sentencing in June 2026 after being convicted of charges related to purchasing the firearm for Zachary.

Jason Gordon, 39, of Baker, West Virginia, received a sentence of 30 months in federal prison. Law enforcement officers responded to a domestic violence call at Gordon’s residence, where a consented search of the home uncovered firearms in the attic. Gordon acknowledged ownership of the weapons. His prior felony and domestic violence convictions prohibit him from legally possessing firearms.

Montez Taryle Lincoln, 41, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 72 months in prison for unlawful firearm possession. The West Virginia State Police were investigating a suspected marijuana grow operation when they executed a search warrant on a property in Martinsburg. During the search of Lincoln’s bedroom, officers seized two pistols and a quantity of crack cocaine. Lincoln, also known by the alias “Fatz,” has prior felony drug convictions that restrict his ability to possess firearms.

These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eleanor Hurney, Andrew Cogar, and Stephen Warner. Investigative efforts involved collaboration between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office. The sentencings are connected to Operation Take Back America, a national effort by the Department of Justice to dismantle criminal organizations, address violent crime, and combat illegal immigration. Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided over the sentencings of Mongold and Gordon, while U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh handled the sentencing of Lincoln.

Residents of West Virginia should be aware that these sentencings highlight the strict enforcement of federal firearms laws. Individuals with prior felony or domestic violence convictions who are found in possession of firearms face severe penalties.

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

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