Middaugh gets community control for F4 Trafficking
By Bob Robinson

GREENVILLE – “You were into marijuana at 18, cocaine at 27, meth at 39, prescription drugs at 41 and heroin at 44,” said Darke County Common Pleas Judge Jonathan Hein…

“Marijuana, meth and every other drug in the universe since she was 18,” Hein added later. Michelle Middaugh had pleaded guilty to Trafficking, a Felony 4 offense.

He turned to Middaugh.

“Three misdemeanors; this is your first felony. All your lifetime has been composed of felonies. You think like a felon. Not getting caught doesn’t change the equation.

“Everything you used to do you’ve got to change. You have to go places you never went before, the places the right thinking legal acting people go.”

He noted the risk of recidivism was likely as she had a lifetime of drug abuse, then said…

“You’re going to get your chance. Community Control for up to 60 months.”

Deborah Quigley, Assistant Darke County Prosecutor, had indicated the state would not be opposed to community control.

Middaugh’s attorney, Paul Wagner, had agreed, noting community control for his client would be appropriate.

“She’s trying to make her life better,” he said. “She needs treatment.”

Hein added 53 days of jail time, then gave her credit for the 53 days served. She was to seek and maintain employment and pay court costs and restitution amounting to $35 a month for a year. Hein also imposed 75 hours of community service.

“When you aren’t working you might as well be doing something to help your community,” he said.

Published courtesy of The Early Bird