By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Steven Michael Craft

WARSAW — A Claypool man will serve 10 years in prison for dealing drugs.

Steven Michael Craft, 26, 9611 S. 100E, Claypool, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 2 felony. Four additional criminal charges were all dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Craft was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Sept. 18.

For dealing meth, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Craft to 10 years in the Indiana Department of Correction. He has 79 days of jail time credit. Reed also recommended Craft for participation in Recovery While Incarcerated as part of Craft’s sentence. The sentence required a mandatory minimum of 10 years due to Craft’s prior criminal history.

At sentencing, Defense Attorney Jay Rigdon said Craft has worked really hard on improving his well-being by acquiring the tools he needs to be successful in life.

Prosecutor Brad Voelz noted Craft’s history of violence and dishonesty.

“I’ve struggled my entire life with addiction,” said Craft. “I’m trying to improve myself and get help.”

“I don’t want your improvements to backslide or go to waste,” said Reed.

On Dec. 7, 2022, an Indiana State Police trooper saw a vehicle speeding on SR 13, south of Sidney. The trooper pulled the vehicle over and identified its driver as Craft, who had 22 grams of meth in the vehicle.

According to court documents, Craft admitted the drugs belonged to him and also told the trooper he tried to sell meth.