Poinsett County Democrat Tribune: Local News: Former teacher pleads guilty to drug charge

James David Bodry, 48, received five y ears probation and a 10-year suspended sentence Monday, March 9 after he pled guilty to a possession of drug paraphernalia charge.

In addition, Bodry was ordered to complete rehabilitation and pay $1,250 in fines and fees.

Bodry, of 151 Oak Street in Tyronza, was arrested in January 2008 following a investigation by local police who suspected Bodry of manufacturing drugs.

During the original arrest and search of Bodry's property, police say they discovered bags containing components recently used in the production of methamphetamines under the carport of the residence. A search of Bodry's bedroom led police to the confiscation of another two grams of methamphetamine, which was found in the pocket of one of Bodry's shirts hanging in his closet.

Also arrested in the original incident on Jan. 9, 2008 was Timothy Jason Bouler, 29, and Jessica Lynne Hannah, 20. During the search the officers discovered drug paraphernalia and approximately 4-5 grams of methamphetamine "ice" in a trash can in the room shared by Bouler and Hannah.

Bodry, who taught science at Turell High School at the time of his arrest, was originally charged with possession of controlled substance - methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture, proximity to a certain facility - church and use of communication device - surveillance camera.

Bodry's sentence Monday was handed down by Judge David Laser in Poinsett County Circuit Court.

It's amazing that someone who deals in drugs can walk away this easy. Thank you Judge David Laser for your part in helping remove drug dealers from our streets.

-- Posted by Nuthouse247 on Thu, Mar 12, 2009, at 11:02 PM

Maybe they should have just hit him on the nose w/a rolled up newspaper! This absolutely infuriates me. Probation & a suspended sentence. Who was his attorney? I agree that he needs rehab but I also think he needs a little time in jail.

-- Posted by demetris young clark on Wed, Mar 18, 2009, at 4:27 PM

Why do some get jail time and others probation. If the crime is the same as someone else's crime, why are there sentences different??

-- Posted by mimi2 on Thu, Mar 19, 2009, at 2:56 PM

This guy has been the caise of alot of kids getting hooked on drugs and ruining their lives. He gets a slap on the wrist for destroying many lives over a period of years. Now we have a first hand example of why we will never defeat our drug problem, because Judges let them off.

-- Posted by Tazdevil92 on Sat, Mar 28, 2009, at 6:58 PM