Letters of support, nature of crime factors in ex-Sheriff Mike Byrd’s sentence
The federal judge considered the nature and circumstances of the crime and almost 50 letters written on behalf of former Jackson County Sheriff Mike Byrd before handing down a sentence that both the defense and federal prosecutors called “fair” today.
U.S. District Judge William H. Steele, chief judge for the Southern District of Alabama, sentenced Byrd to six months of home confinement, followed by six months of probation and a $3,000 fine.
What do you think of ex-Sheriff Mike Byrd’s sentence on his federal charge?
On Dec. 10, Byrd pleaded guilty to misleading conduct toward another person with intent to prevent communication to a federal law enforcement officer, a charge that carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Prosecutors had recommended the six months of house arrest and six months of probation to the court, and the judge found that was a fair sentence in this case.
Byrd will be electronically monitored while on home confinement, Steele said, and the $3,000 fine imposed must be paid before Byrd takes on any more debt.
Gulflive
3/11/14
Magnolia Tribune
