Convicted drug dealer back behind bars
A 62-year-old Cortez man has been sentenced to four years in prison after pleading guilty to a felony drug charge.
Appearing out of custody at last week’s sentencing, Maynard Peltier was remanded into custody after receiving the sentence, which includes credit for 46 days served. With his head bowed throughout the proceedings, Peltier didn’t address the court.
Records show that Peltier was arrested and charged with drug possession with intent to distribute on June 11, 2014.
Officials said Peltier served 10 years in prison on similar charges in the 1990s.
Bench warrants issued in drug case
In separate cases, bench warrants were issued after suspected drug users failed to appear in court last week.
Ana Sena, 32, address unknown, previously pleaded guilty to unlawful use of a controlled substance. As part of a plea deal, she was likely to be placed on two years of supervised probation at a scheduled sentencing hearing last week.
According to court records, the charges against Sena were filed after a U.S. 160 traffic stop on March 31, 2014. Methamphetamine was reportedly found in the vehicle, and Sena and a co-defendant were charged with distribution and possession charges.
Records show Sena also allegedly used methamphetamine while incarcerated at the Montezuma County jail on Mother’s Day. She was free under a $1,000 bond.
The other bench warrant was issued for Jason Gallegos, 35, of Mancos, after he failed to appear for a scheduled arraignment hearing. His initial $1,500 bond was increased to $3,000.
According to court records, Gallegos was arrested and charged with drug possession and tampering with evidence on March 19.
Cortez man fails drug court mandates
After failing drug court mandates, a Cortez man has been sentenced to seven months in prison.
William Masoner, 45, was reportedly homeless, unemployed and unable to comply with drug court conditions. After pleading guilty to violating probation, he received a seven-month prison sentence last week. He was credited for 132 days served.
Officials said Masoner was in possession of drugs when he was arrested on an outstanding warrant for a $20 unpaid traffic ticket. Police reportedly approached Masoner while he was sitting in the park, because they didn’t recognize him, his public defender said.
Tobie Baker
