On February 2, 2024, a year-long investigation culminated in the execution of a narcotic search warrant at 9077 Bob-O-Link Road in Upshur County. The location was identified as a site where large quantities of methamphetamine were being sold and distributed.
During the search, 50-year-old Jimmy Wayne Skinner was found inside a room in a shop building. Authorities discovered methamphetamine, marijuana, cutting agents, loaded syringes, and multiple firearms in the same area. Skinner, a convicted felon, was charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and was classified as a Habitual Offender due to his criminal history. He has been to prison four separate times and was on parole for a 25-year sentence related to Felony Driving While Intoxicated, dating back to June 2012 in Upshur County. Skinner had been on parole since February 2000 and was considered an absconder with an outstanding arrest warrant for over two years.
Upon entry, law enforcement found Skinner next to a loaded 20-gauge short-barrel shotgun, which had been sawed off with one round in the chamber. He was arrested on charges of Parole Violation Warrant, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, and Possession of Methamphetamine. A total of six people were arrested at the scene, and others are awaiting trial.
The trial concluded with the conviction of Skinner, reinforcing the ongoing efforts by the Upshur County Sheriff's Office to prosecute habitual offenders. According to the Sheriff's Office, justice was served as the jury delivered its verdict late yesterday afternoon, August 14th. Skinner was sentenced to 99 years in prison.
