The former Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy who was convicted of planting drugs in the vehicles of people he pulled over has been sentenced to 12 years and six months in prison.
During the sentencing hearing for former Jackson County Sheriff Deputy Zachary Wester, the court listened to testimony from several of Wester’s friends or family who asked for leniency. They argued Wester has played an important role in supporting the local community.
"I have no doubt that you will take into account the person that Zachary is and his contribution not only to this community but to his friends, family and myself,", Wester's wife, Rebecca Wester, said to Judge James Goodman.
One of Wester’s victims, Teresa Odom also spoke. She says Wester’s actions had significant negative impacts on her life.
“Gee Mr. Wester, you’ve robbed me of my credibility. Being a mother and a grandmother for the last three years, I’ve probably missed a year-and-a-half of my grandbaby's life because of this.”
During the sentencing hearing, the judge also denied a request to release Wester on bond while he seeks an appeal.
