Barbour County Man Accused of Stealing Drugs from Overdose Victim

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A 29-year-old Belington man has been arrested and charged with being an accessory before and after the fact, child neglect, and conspiracy after deputies say he was seen taking controlled substances from the body of a person who had died of an overdose. Authorities also found drugs and drug paraphernalia at the residence where the overdose occurred, where a child was present.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing opioid crisis in West Virginia and the disturbing trend of individuals exploiting overdose victims, which can further traumatize families and undermine public trust. It also raises concerns about child welfare when adults responsible for a child's care are involved in drug use and related criminal activity.

The details

On March 23, deputies responded to a reported overdose at a residence in Philippi, where at least one person was pronounced dead at the hospital. While searching the home, deputies found marijuana, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia. They also learned that the individuals who overdosed were supposed to be caring for a child, who was not present. Deputies later identified Jeremy Tacy as the driver who had dropped the overdose victims at the hospital before taking the child to a relative's home. Tacy allegedly admitted to taking 5-6 bags of controlled substances from the deceased person's pockets and destroying all but one bag, which he hid in the woods.

• On March 23, deputies responded to a reported overdose at a residence in Philippi.
• On March 27, deputies learned that Tacy had taken controlled substances from the deceased overdose victim.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Tacy is being held in Tygart Valley Regional Jail on $80,000 bond, and the case is ongoing as authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the overdose and Tacy's actions.