BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Quiness Howell Jr., a resident of Mansfield, faced his arraignment in Crawford County Common Pleas Court on Monday on a charge of trafficking fentanyl. The felony of the third degree carries a maximum sentence of up to 36 months in prison.
Howell Jr. Was indicted a year ago but had been evading authorities. His father, Quiness Howell Sr., who was his co-defendant, was sentenced to 54 months in prison back in March.
Despite his father’s legal proceedings, Howell Jr. chose not to surrender himself to the authorities.
During the court proceedings, Assistant Prosecutor Ryan Hoovler informed the court that Howell Jr. was aware of the warrant for his arrest.
Given his evasion tactics and the severity of the fentanyl trafficking charge, Hoovler requested a bond of $300,000.00.
In defense of Howell Jr., Attorney Neil Huggins argued for a lower bond, citing his client’s employment and clean record of appearance in court.
Huggins assured the court that Howell Jr. would comply with all bond conditions, including wearing a monitoring device if asked.
After considering the circumstances, Judge Leuthold set Howell Jr.’s bond at $100,000.00.
Judge Leuthold took into account Howell Jr.’s year-long evasion and the gravity of trafficking fentanyl in determining the bond amount. Attorney Jerry Thompson was appointed to represent Howell Jr, and a pretrial date will be scheduled in the near future to further address the case.