(Sioux City)– A Ruthven man has been convicted in U-S District Court on a meth charge.
43-year-old Jay Todd Hessman was convicted by a jury earlier this month following a three and-a-half day trial in Sioux city. Hessman was convicted on one count of conspiracy to manufacture and distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine between March of 2000 and May 14th, 2000.
The jury returned its verdict after deliberating about three and-a-half hours.
Evidence presented at the trial indicated residents living near Hessman’s residence in Ruthven reported smelling a strong smell of ether. Authorities found Hessman at his residence when they executed a search warrant on May 14th, 2000. The search turned up meth precursors, a recipe for making methand other items necessary for manufacturing the drug.
Testimony during the trial showed Hessman had three prior drug convictions and met one of his co-conspirators while serving time in state prison.
Hessman faces up to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole and fine of up to four million dollars. A sentencing date hasn’t been set yet.
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