By Kathy Laird, Crawford County Now Contributor
In what he called a “very difficult decision,” Crawford County Common Pleas Judge Sean Leuthold sentenced Healea Walters on Monday to 100 days behind bars.
Walters pleaded guilty to violating her community control. According to court officials, over the last several weeks Walters has failed to report to probation appointments, failed to go to counseling, and tested positive for cocaine.
In addition to those charges, Walters was involved as a passenger in a high-speed chase on July 5. The chase ensued from Mansfield into Crawford County. The prosecution cited her missed probation meeting on the day of the pursuit, her lengthy record, and her knowledge of how the system works as proof that she deserved time in jail.
Walters’ attorney, Brian Gernet of Bucyrus, said Walters had a difficult life and is expected to give birth in under 10 weeks. He sought treatment for her at the Jericho House and monitoring by an ankle bracelet as a compromise, but the judge disagreed.
“You are pregnant and using drugs that contain Propanol. Virtually every drug you buy in the state of Ohio contains Propanol. This is an extreme danger to you and even more extreme for your unborn child,” Leuthold said. “I expect many people will die because of this drug. This court is very concerned and we are trying to stay ahead of it in Crawford County.”
In a tearful plea, Walters explained to the judge that she becomes “overwhelmed” with her responsibilities and simply does not comply.
“I’m sick of these excuses, you are a danger to yourself. I don’t believe you can make good choices. I am doing this for your own good,” Leuthold explained.
In other court activity, James Wells was sentenced to eight months in prison with credit for time served in jail. On March 1, 2016, Wells failed to change his residence with the court. On June 7, 2016, he failed to report to his supervising probation officer, and earlier this month he tested positive for the drug oxycodone.