Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
A Warsaw man will serve 15 years in prison for two drug-related cases.
Tony Van Fountain, 30, Warsaw, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 2 felony; and possession of methamphetamine, a level 4 felony. Seven additional criminal charges were all dismissed as part of a plea agreement.
Fountain was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday.
For dealing methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Matthew Buehler sentenced Fountain to 20 years in the Indiana Department of Correction, with 15 years executed and five years suspended on probation. He also received an eight-year DOC sentence for possessing meth. Both of Fountain's sentences will be served back-to-back.
In total, Fountain received a 20-year DOC sentence, with 15 years executed and five years on probation. He has 756 days, or just over two years, of jail time credit, plus good time credit as calculated. Fountain must also pay $415 in restitution to the NET 43 Drug Task Force.
Fountain was also recommended for participation in Recovery While Incarcerated during his prison sentence.
At sentencing, defense attorney Cory Spreen asked the court to accept Fountain's plea agreement, saying drug addiction has "taken a control of (Fountain's) life." He said the last time Fountain used drugs was the day he was taken into custody.
Prosecutor Brad Voelz said Fountain was being sentenced "not for his addiction, but for his behavior."
Fountain said he accepted responsibility for his actions, telling the court he had used drugs since he was 12 years old.
"This caused me to break the law," said Fountain. "I really do want the help to be a better father and citizen."
Buehler said he hoped Fountain was serious on getting clean and staying away from drugs.
Affidavits of Probable Cause
Sometime in April 2023, NET 43 made two controlled purchases of meth from Fountain. A total of 15.8 grams of meth was purchased.
On Aug. 21, 2023, a Warsaw police officer was working school bus stop arm detail when he noticed a vehicle blocking a school bus. A woman in the vehicle told police she purchased meth from Fountain on Aug. 20, 2023.
Upon searching Fountain's residence, officers found 20.1 grams of meth.
