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Family enters pleas in meth case
By Joe Gorman
YOUNGSTOWN
A Sebring family pleaded guilty in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court to charges they were making methamphetamine.
James Bevins, 48, pleaded guilty Monday before Judge Shirley J. Christian to felony charges of aggravated possession of drugs and endangering children.
His wife, Deann Bevins, 43, and the daughter of James Bevins, Chetara Bevins, 26, each pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated possession of drugs. Court records show they all have a South 15 Street address.
Prosecutors are recommending a sentence of four years for James Bevins and probation for his wife and daughter. Sentencing will be Feb. 9.
All three remain free on bond until their sentencing, but Judge Christian warned them they could receive more severe penalties if they violate the conditions of their bond.
The three were arrested after a May raid of their home by Sebring and Alliance police, as well as the Mahoning County Drug Task Force. Assistant Prosecutor Nick Brevetta said the agencies served a search warrant after Chetara Blevins was found to have made a large purchase of cold medicine.
Several cold medicines are commonly used to make methamphetamine.
Brevetta said all three confessed after the warrant was served at the Bevins’ home. The three were set to go on trial Monday, but the pleas averted that trial.
Brevetta said he is recommending prison time for James Bevins because there were children present in the home where the drugs were being made and because of his past criminal record.