Friday, May 27, 2011
YOUNGSTOWN — A man who authorities said had ties to a local South Side gang has received probation for felony trafficking in marijuana and ordered to stay away from suspected gang members.
Jeremiah McClarin, 25, Wolosyn Circle, had been indicted on a single count of trafficking in marijuana and later pleaded guilty to that charge. He had been associated with the state and federal investigation into the LSP Gang.
LSP stands for LaClede, Sherwood and Parkview avenues — the South Side streets from which the gang ran its suspected criminal enterprise for more than 10 years, according to state and federal authorities.
McClarin, standing today before Judge Lou A. D’Apolito of Mahoning County Common Pleas Court, emphatically denied any ties to gang life or a criminal enterprise.
McClarin told the judge he has had the same job for more than 18 months and does not associate with gang members.
Judge D’Apolito said he understands that McClarin had been accused of being a gang member, but said there is no proof beyond those allegations.
Judge D’Apolito, citing McClarin’s minimal record, appearance in court and employment status, said there seems to be little chance of recidivism for McClarin. He sentenced McClarin to two years’ probation with random drug testing. He also ordered McClarin to stay away from any gang members.
For the complete story, read Saturday's Vindicator and Vindy.com