Jodean M. Neher

KOSCIUSKO — At the Kosciusko Circuit Court Monday, Sept. 10, an Akron woman was sentenced to seven years at the Indiana Department of Corrections. 

Jodean Marie Neher, 49, 7342 West CR 1150S, Akron, was found guilty of dealing methamphetamine, a level 4 felony, and possession of a narcotic drug, a level 6 felony. 

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on June 3, 2017, officers discovered two glass smoking devices, marijuana, methamphetamine and hydrocodone in her vehicle.

Jack C. Birch, Neher’s attorney, told Judge Michael Reed that Neher has significant mental health issues. 

“We ask that whatever sentence the court would impose, that she receive appropriate mental health evaluations,” said Birch. “I think that could help her in moving forward with rehabilitation.”

Reed asked if Neher wanted to say anything before he imposed the sentence, to which she responded, “The last couple of months my mother has been very sick and it’s made me see that it’s not all about me. I just want to be there for my mom because she’s been there my whole life.”

“I’m not unsympathetic to the comments you made, and I think the state was not unsympathetic,” said Reed, pointing out that Neher has been allowed to spend time with her mother and help care for her for the past month. “On the flip side, you’ve tied the court’s hands. There’s nothing I can do at this point.”

“I will take Mr. Birch’s suggestion, and as part of the sentence I impose I will recommend that you get a mental health examination and any appropriate treatment at the Indiana Department of Corrections,” Reed stated. 

Reed sentenced Neher to six years at the IDOC for the charge of dealing methamphetamine. Neher was sentenced to one year at the IDOC for the charge of possession of a narcotic drug. The sentences were ordered to be served consecutively and consecutive to any sentence received in another pending case. 

Neher received 37 days of jail time credit. Reed ordered that Neher receive a mental health examination and appropriate treatment as well as substance abuse treatment. Neher was ordered to pay a drug interdiction fee.

Pursuant to the plea agreement, remaining charges in this case were dismissed. Neher’s most recent case, 43C01-1805-F6–000430, was also dismissed.