W.Va. Gov. Tomblin’s Brother Sentenced to Home Confinement

The brother of West Virginia's governor has been sentenced to eight months home confinement and three years probation after pleading guilty to a federal drug charge.

Carl Tomblin, 50, of Chapmanville, pleaded guilty in March to distribution of oxymorphone.

He was sentenced Wednesday afternoon in U.S. District Court in Charleston.

Tomblin sold oxymorphone to a confidential police informant on five separate occasions in December 2013 and January 2014. Tomblin also admitted that he purchased and distributed oxymorphone for approximately eight months prior to January 2014.

He faced up to 20 years in prison.

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin issued the following statement after the sentencing:

"This has been a difficult time for me and my family. We accept the court’s decision and will support my brother as he gets the help he needs to recover from his addiction. I know the impact drugs can have on our communities and families. I appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers."

When Carl Tomblin was charged in February, the governor said his brother was dealing with drug addiction and needed help, but must be held accountable for his actions.