ATHENS, Ala. — Update: On August 23, presiding Judge Pamela Baschab filed an order amending the sentence of former Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely. Blakely will no longer serve a two-year probation following a 36-month sentence of jail time, according to court documents.
Original Story:
Former Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely received his sentence on August 20 after his conviction for two felonies, first-degree theft of property and use of official position for personal gain.
Judge Baschab sentenced Blakely to 36 consecutive months of jail time followed by 2 years of unsupervised probation. He must also pay court costs and fees applied in this case.
Blakely's attorneys immediately filed an appeal, and Blakely is now out on a $50,000 appeal bond.
Mike Blakely Felony Sentencing Order
Mike Blakely Appeal Bond Order (Conditional Release)
Several people stepped up in court to make statements of support for Blakely, including former Alabama Chief Justice Sue Bell Cobb, Mike Blakely's son, a Limestone County Sheriff's Dept. employee, and a former Clay County Sheriff. Blakely also took the stand, talking about himself and his background. At one point, he said that he trusts the justice system and would respect the judge's decision.
The state asked for:
- 2 concurrent 36 month sentences in a jail other than the Limestone County Jail
- 2 years probation
- No hard labor
- $10,000 in fines
- Restitution
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Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall released the following statement regarding Blakely's conviction:
“Public officials must set the highest example of accountability, and no matter how long someone holds office they are not above the law,” said Attorney General Marshall. “Sheriff Blakely repeatedly swore an oath to enforce and obey the law during his 40 years in office, and he now knows the consequences of violating that oath.
According to the Attorney General's Office, Blakely faces up to 20 years in prison for the theft conviction and up to an additional 20 years in prison for the ethics conviction.
Aiyana Willoughby spoke to people outside the courthouse:
RELATED: Jury: Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely guilty on two charges, not guilty on remaining 8