×

Garland man charged in meth ring seeks bond

A Garland man facing a possible life sentence for his role in a multi-state methamphetamine ring is citing COVID-19 as a reason to be let out of jail pending trial.

A total of 16 individuals were charged last fall in connection with the operation at “The Farm,” located at 530 Hunter School Rd.

Federal officials allege that Carina Tucker, Titusville, and Gale Flick would drive to Akron, Ohio two to three times per week to pick up half a pound of methamphetamine.

County officials said they would return through Erie and drop to Titusville and the meth “spiderwebbed” through the area to the end user.

Calculations by the Warren County Drug Task Force estimate each half-pound run equating to $2,400 in street value.

Flick has been detained and is currently being held at the Erie County Prison, according to a motion filed in federal court this week by his counsel, seeking that the bond hearing be reopened.

That motion notes the court “ordered Mr. Flick to be detained after an October 23, 2020 detention hearing” but argues that Flick’s “health is poor,” specifically highlighting a history of strokes, heart issues, breathing, diabetic and eyesight issues.

“Three of the pods at the Erie County Prison have been locked down due to a Covid-19 outbreak,” his counsel asserts. “Mr. Flick is at an increased risk of severe illness from Covid-19 due to his health issues.”

The motion notes that Flick would live at his residence where he will live on his own and has a job as well as someone willing to supervise him.

“His many health problems increase the risk that Mr. Flick will become seriously ill due to Covid-19,” the filing states. “Before his arrest, Mr. Flick was given drug tests weekly by Warren County CYS. If released, that testing would resume.

“Mr. Flick’s life should not be placed at risk while he is detained. He moves this Court to reopen the bond hearing in this matter and permit him to be temporarily released on bond.”

No ruling had yet been made on the motion as of Thursday afternoon.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today