MERCER COUNTY, WV – According to Mercer County Prosecuting Attorney Brian K. Cochran, three men were sentenced to prison today for their roles in unrelated crimes throughout Mercer County, with two cases handled by the West Virginia State Police and one by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department.
Joseph Earl Coalson, 32, of Raleigh County, WV, was sentenced to 1 to 5 years in prison for fleeing a law enforcement officer in a vehicle while recklessly endangering the safety of others. Coalson was also sentenced to 6 months in prison for his second shoplifting offense. The incident took place in November 2024 and was handled by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department. Judge Mark Wills presided over the sentence.
Teddy Billings, Jr., 57, of Oklahoma, was sentenced to 5–15 years in prison after pleading guilty to incest. The incident happened in June 2022. The West Virginia State Police investigated Billings’ case. Judge Mark Wills also presided over the case.
Finally, Charles Nicholson, 55, of Princeton, was convicted in a jury trial of driving with a revoked license while under the influence (DUI), his third offense. Nicholson was convicted by a Circuit Court jury in November 2024, and the West Virginia State Police handled the case. Judge William Sadler sentenced him to between one and three years in prison today.
Cochran stated, “These cases demonstrate our commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions and ensuring the safety of our community. Our law enforcement officers are working hard to combat criminal behavior and keep the public safe.
