CLARION, Pa. — With the sentencing of acknowledged ringleader Terry McIntyre, prosecution of the McIntyre methamphetamine ring came to a successful conclusion. McIntyre was sentenced Wednesday to a total of 19 to 38 years in state prison.
At the sentencing hearing, District Attorney Aaron pointed out that McIntyre had been to state prison on two previous occasions, once for ransacking Union High School in the 1980s, and once for a prior drug dealing conviction. Aaron argued that McIntyre was beyond rehabilitation, stating that, “At this point, protection of the public from Mr. McIntyre is the primary concern, not rehabilitation.”
When given an opportunity to address the court prior to sentencing, McIntyre chose to remain silent.
After the hearing, District Attorney Aaron stated, “By the successful prosecution of Terry McIntyre and his conspirators, a source of methamphetamine that had been polluting the youth of the area has been removed. McIntyre had engaged in predatory behavior, luring several young people into a life of meth addiction, even using his own children as pawns in his scheme. A plague on the community was ended when this meth ring was brought to justice by the State Police Vice Unit, led by arresting Trooper Jared Thomas.”
“The prosecution of this matter was a team effort including the state police, county detective, and District Attorney’s Office staff. We appreciate the court’s sentence in this matter.”
“It is our hope that a 19- to 38-year sentence will ensure that McIntyre is never on the streets of Clarion County again, and serves as a deterrent to those engaged in meth production.”
McIntyre was convicted at a jury trial of 47 of 48 charges including manufacture of methamphetamine; conspiracy to manufacture; manufacture of methamphetamine with children present; solicitation to acquire pseudoephedrine for manufacture; possession of pseudoephedrine with intent to manufacture; and reckless endangerment.
Previously, other members of the ring were sentenced as follows:
Justin McIntyre — seven to 14 years; Operating a Meth Lab; Operating a Corrupt Organization, and Possession With Intent to Deliver Meth
Derrick Fowler — five to 10 years; Possession of Meth Precursors (five counts)
Joseph McIntyre — two to four years; Possession With Intent to Manufacture Meth.
Five other individuals have been sentenced regarding misdemeanor charges, and one is awaiting sentencing.
McIntyre was convicted after a three-day jury trial conducted by District Attorney Aaron, assisted by A.D.A. Jacquelyn Mizerock. McIntyre did not appear for the third day of his trial, which continued in his absence. He faces additional charges regarding his failure to appear for trial.
