HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One of two people arrested in a drug distribution case back in 2017 was granted community corrections over the objection of the state.

Twenty-seven-year-old James Anderson of Turon was charged with possession of methamphetamine and paraphernalia with intent to distribute, personal use drug paraphernalia, felony interference, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of marijuana.

He entered pleas to two counts of possession of methamphetamine, interference with law enforcement, criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of marijuana.

Reno County District Judge Tim Chambers sentenced him to a total of two years and six months in prison, but granted a year and six months of community corrections.

The case falls under a border box, meaning the judge has the option of ordering prison or granting corrections. The vehicle Anderson was in didn’t belong to him and the three guns found inside were not his.

Anderson was arrested with 23-year-old Hali E. Laws back on April 15, 2017, by Hutchinson police.

Anderson has prior convictions for theft, flee and elude, and driving while suspended. He also served prison time in Missouri.