BUCYRUS—An Ashland man appeared in Crawford County Common Pleas Court on Tuesday to answer allegations he violated the terms and conditions of his community control.
Paul Kuhn JR., 36, of Ashland, was placed on five years of community control in September after he pleaded guilty to one count of felony child nonsupport, a felony of the fifth degree punishable with up to 12 months in prison.
According to probation officer Jeremy Clay, Kuhn failed a drug screen on Wednesday. Clay told the court Kuhn tested positive for methamphetamines, heroin, and fentanyl. Clay told the court Kuhn had admitted to the drug use before the test.
Crawford County Common Pleas Court Judge Sean Leuthold was ready to accept Kuhn’s guilty plea and let the state and defense argue sentencing.
However, as Judge Leuthold observed Kuhn’s behaviors, body language, and frequent angry attitudes, he decided to continue the hearing.
“Mr. Kuhn tested positive for numerous dangerous drugs. I am concerned with his mental health. He seems not to be in the right frame of mind to make any decisions today.” Leuthold said.
Leuthold set the hearing for a continuance. He reappointed attorney Ed Bibler to represent Kuhn on the new charge. Bond was set at $25,000.00.
In other court news, James Fields, 44, of Ashland didn’t appear for his original sentencing earlier. Judge Leuthold decided to take Field’s plea without any new additional charges for the failure to appear.
Fields pleaded guilty to one count of possession of drugs, a fifth-degree felony punishable with up to 12 months in prison.
Leuthold sentenced Fields to five years on community control. He must complete a drug assessment and all follow-up treatments. He will forfeit all drug-related property, including electronics and cell phones.
“Not showing is not an option. You didn’t show up here when you were supposed to. Understand I’m cutting you a break here. “Leuthold said.