An Athens County man targeted for drug peddling by the major crimes task force, plead guilty in Athens County Court last week.

 

28 year old Jamal Cruse plead guilty to a third degree felony charge of trafficking in cocaine and to second degree felony charges of possession of cocaine and engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity.

Cruse was sentenced to nine years in prison, of which he must serve five years. He was also ordered to forfeit $910 to the Task Force.

 

Officials say three times in 2006 Cruse sold powder and crack cocaine to an informant. One of the drug transactions involved 14.1 grams of crack cocaine and others took place in the presence of children.  A search warrant subsequently executed at Cruse’s apartment at the Plains Plaza Apartments resulted in the seizure of cash, guns and drugs.