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Judge Sentences Panasuk On Drug Charge

John David Panasuk was sentenced by District Judge David J. Cybulski on Wednesday, June 15, for the charges of possession of dangerous drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia.

A jury found Panasuk guilty to the charges during a trial held in district court March 17.

Roosevelt County attorney Frank Piocos recommended a five-year sentence for Panasuk. Piocos noted that Panasuk is a violent and sexual offender and is facing an additional felony charge.

“I’m tired of dealing with Mr. Panasuk,” Piocos said.

Public defender Christopher White asked that Panasuk receive a five-year suspended sentence.

White said that Panasuk has been accepted at treatment centers. He said Panasuk did well when he was on probation from 2016-2020.

Panasuk said he has battled addiction for most of his life, but that he stayed sober from 2013 to 2020.

“I’m asking for treatment and to get out of here,” Panasuk said. “I want a fresh start. I have prospects and opportunities.”

Cybulski ordered a threeyear sentence in the state prison with no fine. The judge said Panasuk would be eligible for parole almost immediately.

After Panasuk remarked that he does better when he’s on probation, Cybulski said then he can apply for parole and be under their system. “I think they will work harder to get a plan in place for when you get out,” Cybulski said.

Panasuk will receive credit for 257 days served.

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