Gregory avoids 12-year prison sentence

A Fallon man avoided prison Tuesday in District Court and received probation stemming from two cases.

Jacob Gregory was placed on probation up to five years and received a suspended prison sentence of nearly 12 years for possession of stolen property and grand larceny of a firearm.

Gregory was placed in the regimental discipline program in October, but was removed from the program due to a medical condition. His attorney, David Neidert, said hip surgery is required and stressed to Judge Tom Stockard his client attempted to remain and complete the program.

Gregory told Stockard discipline is what he needed, and he regrets his actions over the past year. Gregory also said he was able to reflect when he was at the “Fish Tank,” also known as the Northern Nevada Correctional Center, in Carson City.

He said while he was waiting to be processed for boot camp, Gregory was able to study criminals who were preparing for prison sentences.

Churchill County Deputy District Attorney Michael Winn asked for 12 to 32 months on each count to run consecutive. He said a number of the items Gregory stole from his mother, Donna Presgraves held significant sentimental value.

In addition, Gregory also stole a Ruger sideclip from his mother worth about $300. He said the gun was then stolen from him and could not be recovered.

Other items Gregory swiped from victims include an iPod, iPad, a ski jacket, a military class ring “dipped in all seven seas” and an FFA license

He was originally arrested in February when he and four other suspects were booked on at least 46 burglaries throughout Fallon. In July, Gregory was arrested in connection with the grand larceny at his mother’s residence.

Gregory had a plea deal in place after his initial arrest, but the July incident voided the deal and allowed Winn to argue for a prison sentence on Tuesday.

“The state can’t recommend probation,” Winn said at an October hearing.

As part of his probation, Gregory must obtain and follow the recommendations of a substance abuse evaluation, cannot consume drugs or alcohol and may be subject to a curfew.

If he violates any terms of probation, Gregory will return to court and may be sentenced to prison.

In other court news —

Sarah Hogan was sentenced up to 180 days in jail and received a suspended prison sentence for possession of a controlled substance.

Her suspended sentence is 16 to 40 months after she tested positive for drugs after she was ordered to report to Court Services.

Hogan, though, has also been charged with felony burglary and one misdemeanor, petty larceny, stemming from a Jan. 4 incident.

According to the criminal complaint, she entered CVS Pharmacy with the intent to commit petty larceny. Hogan, the complaint alleges, stole a shampoo and conditioner from the store.