Man sentenced for heroin possession

HILLSDALE — Raymond A. Walker, 30, of Camden, was sentenced to 12 months in county jail and three years probation on one count of possession of heroin in Circuit Court Monday morning.

At his arraignment, Walker plead guilty to the charge with the understanding that he would not be charged as an habitual offender.

Walker has a total of six misdemeanors and this is his second felony. Judge Michael Smith noted this is Walker’s seventh substance-related charge and the record doesn’t indicate all of his run-ins with law enforcement.

Smith also said the guideline of 0-6 months for the current charge is not adequate. Walker has had multiple probation violations and has never successfully completed a probation program.

During sentencing, Smith asked Walker about his substance use leading up to sentencing. After a pause and a stumble, Walker said he’d been using codeine to treat withdrawal symptoms. When questioned about opiate usage Walker fumbled the question. Smith asked Walker how he would perform on a drug test. Still unable to provide a clear answer, Smith requested Walker to undergo a drug test for heroin usage.

After leaving the courtroom Walker returned quickly and said he couldn’t urinate to undergo the test. However, Walker admitted to Smith that he’d been using prescription pain medicine prior to the sentencing date.

When Smith asked the prosecution for comments, Assistant Prosecutor Rodney Hassinger said the only time Walker refrained from using substances was during the two years he spent in prison. Additionally, the prosecution raised concern for the children that would be in the care of Walker.

Public Defender Barry Poulson requested a two-week period for Walker before he would have to report and serve time so that he could give his employer two-weeks notice. Smith denied the request.

Walker was escorted out of the courtroom by Hillsdale County Sheriff's Office deputies to be taken to the county jail.