"Leader" In Federal Drug Conspiracy Sentenced In Ohio

A California man who federal authorities say was a leader in a drug scheme that flew thousands of pounds of marijuana to Ohio was sentenced in court Friday. U.S. District Judge Algenon Marbley sentenced 28-year-old David Garrett to 10 years in prison for his role in the marijuana distribution plot. Garrett's Columbus attorney Neil Rosenberg said the judge's hands were tied. Rosenberg says there was only one possibility for a lighter sentence. "The judge is not allowed by statute to go below the mandatory ten year minimum unless the government files a certain document with the court allowing the judge to depart downward from that mandatory sentencing range. But the government only files those documents if in fact the defendant has provided substantial assistance to the authorities. Mr. Garrett chose not to provide any information to the authorities," Rosenberg said. Garrett pleaded guilty several months ago to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana. Rosenberg said at this time Garrett will not appeal his sentencing. Authorities say the drug plot involved 14 flights from Los Angeles to Ohio and other states where 7,000 pounds of marijuana was distributed. The case also involved a California socialite who claims to be an heiress to the Samsung fortune. Lisette Lee pleaded guilty to a drug charge in February after she was arrested last June at Port Columbus. Thirteen suitcases filled with marijuana were found on the private jet on which Lee arrived. Several others in the case soon face sentencing in federal court.