CLARKSBURG, W. Va. — A plea hearing may soon be scheduled in the federal case against the mayor of Bridgeport.
A federal information was filed in court Tuesday against Mario Blount.
Typically, when the prosecution files such a document, it indicates the defendant is cooperating.
No date for a plea hearing has been set for Blount and there is no official indication of any plea agreement at this time.
Blount is charged with one count of false or fraudulent material omission, one count of distribution of oxymorphone and one count of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone and oxymorphone.
His co-defendants are soon expected to enter pleas as well.
A plea hearing for April Davis has not been scheduled, but Angela Davis’ plea hearing is currently scheduled for September 23 before U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull.
When the three were indicted on June 3, the allegations were the three conspired to distribute prescription painkillers for non-legitimate medical purposes over the last three years while Blount served as chief pharmacist of Best Care Pharmacy.
The Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force executed search warrants in October 2013 at the pharmacy locations in Bridgeport, Lumberport and Belington.
Blount had been working at the Weston operation at the time of the arrest.
The evidence gathered during those searches was used to bring charges against Blount and his co-conspirators.
Blount has previously stated he would not step down from his position as mayor as the legal process played out, despite some public suggestion he resign.
He was absent from Monday night’s city council meeting. Before proceeding with the city business, Recorder Bob Greer said it was because of a personal matter.