By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Angel Martin Tolentino

WARSAW — An Elkhart man will serve nine years in prison after unknowingly selling more than 40 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover officer.

Angel Martin Tolentino, 25, 1201 CR 15 Lot 22, Elkhart, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. A methamphetamine possession charge, as well as an additional methamphetamine dealing case, were all dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Tolentino was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, March 7.

In November 2020, the NET43 Drug Task Force made a controlled purchase of 44 grams of methamphetamine from Tolentino.

During court proceedings, Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Brad Voelz said Tolentino has accumulated a criminal history but noted a well-written statement Tolentino created while in recovery.

“I hope he makes the best of his situation,” said Voelz. “It’s going to take hard work.”

“He’s looking for the opportunity to change his future,” said Defense Attorney Scott Reust.

Tolentino apologized to the court and community for his actions.

“I’m hoping to rehabilitate myself and become a better man,” said Tolentino.

For dealing methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Tolentino to nine years in the Indiana Department of Correction. This case will be served consecutively to two cases from Elkhart County.

Tolentino has 379 days, or about one year, of jail time credit in the case. Judge Reed also recommended Tolentino for Recovery While Incarcerated as part of his prison sentence.