Carson City man receives two maximum sentences in drug sales, eluding case
A 49-year-old man was sentenced Monday in Carson City District to up to 6 years in prison for one felony count of eluding a peace officer and one count of sales of a controlled substance.
Mark Garner of Carson City, will spend up to 12 years in prison, according to a news release from the Carson City District Attorney's Office.
At sentencing, the defense argued that Garner should receive the opportunity to rehabilitate through a court approved substance abuse program, or at least receive a lighter prison sentence, because he is a 49-year old man with a significant methamphetamine use problem and no retirement for his future.
In response, Carson City District Attorney Neil Rombardo argued for the maximum sentence, the news release states. He pointed out that the defendant has been previously convicted of eleven felonies. He also noted that Garner is responsible for his lack of retirement because he has served five previous prison terms as well as eighteen jail sentences. The District Attorney also argued that an extended prison sentence will protect the citizens of Carson City and provide Garner the opportunity he needs to become clean and sober.
“The District Attorney’s Office will continue to prosecute those who present a danger to Carson City’s residents to the full extent of the law. In this case, Garner’s drug use, and the actions that resulted from his use, placed everyone at risk, which is why I argued for the maximum sentence,” Rombardo said in a released statement.
During pronouncement of the sentence, District Court Judge James T. Russell agreed that Garner was a drug abuser, but he stated that at some point, given his criminal history, there is nothing society can do with a person like Garner except place him in prison to protect the community. As a result, the Judge sentenced Garner to the maximum 12-year prison sentence.