Meth dealer found guilty
By Debbie Lowe Staff writer

Gardiner

Julie A. Gardiner, 35, Lafayette, was found guilty June 12 of dealing in methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a public park, a Class A felony, on or about Jan. 28, 2006. Gardiner was arrested and criminally charged based on information contained in a probable cause affidavit filed March 9, 2006.

The case was prosecuted by Carroll County Chief Deputy Prosecutor Christine Smith and the trial lasted two days. Jury selection took most of the first day.

"The jury was very attentive, listened to all of the evidence and I believe justice was served," Smith said. "After weighing all the evidence, they deliberated and returned the guilty verdict. I'm pleased with the outcome."

According to Smith, upon hearing the verdict, Carroll Circuit Court Judge Donald

Currie placed the defendant

in custody. The state argued Gardiner was a flight-risk because the guilty verdict to a Class A felony carries a minimum 20- year non-suspendable sentence. The sentencing range is from 20 to 50 years and the advisory sentence is 30 years for the conviction.

Smith said Gardiner was additionally a flight risk because she is facing another Class A felony charge in Carroll County and is on probation, in both Carroll and Hamilton counties.