Sanchez reserves plea for one charge

Cadiz resident Eric Sanchez appeared in court via video call from the Jefferson County Justice Center. Sanchez’ case began in early 2024 when he was indicted on two third degree felony charges of having a weapon under disability. Sanchez eventually pleaded guilty in October and was sentenced to Community Based Controls for two years along with 80 hours of community service with a reserve prison sentence of 18 months.

A motion to revoke CBC was filed this month and Judge Shawn Hervey said the motion alleged that Sanchez tested positive for methamphetamines and marijuana in early June. He admitted to the use during a regular check in before the test came back. Sanchez went to the Eastern Ohio Correctional Center for aftercare and allegedly attempted to bring contraband into the facility with him. The charges for the contraband are pending in another county.

Hervey went farther back in Sanchez’ history and found that there was an original motion to revoke CBC in December 2024 after he allegedly tested positive for several illegal drugs at that time.

Sanchez was told his constitutional rights and asked if he would like to have an attorney in this case. 

“If you feel that’s what I need,” he said. “I was kind of hoping to wrap this up today and just be done with it.”

“We can talk about that today,” Hervey said. “But I would feel more comfortable if you were represented by an attorney so you could get some legal advice.”

Sanchez said he was open to pleading guilty on a couple of the charges but not on one of the charges, “My issue is the violation of supposedly taking drugs in [to EOCC],” Sanchez explained. “I don’t feel comfortable admitting to that violation because it could be a possible conveyance charge later on from Jefferson.”

“I get what you’re saying,” Hervey said. “So if you were to come to a resolution today, you would prefer it not be on charges that could be brought against you in a different county.”

He said he would be guilty of the other two charges and was willing to take the time that’s already hanging over his head.

Hevery asked the state, represented by Prosecuting Attorney Lauren Knight if they had any thoughts on the possible sanctions. Knight said the state would be satisfied with the remaining balance being imposed. With credit for time served, that would be 304 days. Knight also indicated the state would amend the indictment to include only the two positive drug test charges and not the third charge of bringing drugs into EOCC.

“So what the state’s offer is,” Hervey said. “You serve 304 days and then you’re done with this case and you’re not on supervision anymore.”

Sanchez clarified a few details before stating he would admit guilt to the two charges, leaving his options open to fight more serious charges later. 

“I appreciate that, just because I want to be able to fight my case at a later date if needed,” Sanchez said.

The court found Sanchez to be in violation of his community based controls and imposed the full remaining sentence of 304 days.