A Fort Duchesne man was sentenced Tuesday to 65 months federal prison in the US Court of Justice in Utah after his girlfriend overdose while using a combination of heroin and methamphetamine that he gave her. (Scott G. Winterton, Deseret News)
Estimated reading time: 1-2 minutes
SALT LAKE CITY – A Fort Duchesne man was sentenced Tuesday to an additional 65 months in federal prison for drug distribution.
Larry Gardner, 35, said under a plea agreement that his girlfriend overdosed on February 3, 2019 when she was on a combination of heroin and methamphetamine that he gave her. Gardner was also charged with possession of a firearm and ammunition, despite having previously been convicted of a crime.
“This case underscores the tragic consequences of the meth and opioid epidemic, which is widespread in our country and here in Utah,” said Dennis Rice of the Salt Lake City FBI. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners are determined to do our part to contain this crisis. If someone dies as a result of your actions and you illegally possess firearms, you will be held accountable. “
Gardner has already served 19 months in prison since he was charged and will serve seven years if convicted.
A Utah Justice Department press release said the case against Gardner was being prosecuted by the Utah Attorney General and investigated by the Uintah County Sheriff’s Office and FBI special agents.
“We hope that today’s ruling will remind the community and drug traffickers alike that the distribution of dangerous and illegal drugs is not a victimless crime,” said Acting US Attorney Andrea T. Martinez.
×
Comments are closed.