JUDGE REFUSES TO CUT DRUG SENTENCE

A Forrest County judge has refused to reduce the prison sentence for a man
convicted of selling drugs near a Hattiesburg church.

Kado Jackson, 34, was convicted in December of selling cocaine near Beacon
Baptist Church. He was sentenced to 50 years in prison and fined $25,000.

On Wednesday, Circuit Judge Bob Helfrich denied several motions, including
requests for a reduced sentence, a new trial and for Jackson to be released
on bond pending an appeal.

"I consider drug dealers a danger to the community," Helfrich said.

Under state law, selling drugs within 1,500 feet of a church or school
allows a judge to double the penalty.

Nearly three pounds of cocaine were seized with Jackson during the arrest.

Jackson's attorney, Tracy Klein, said the case will be appealed to the
Mississippi Supreme Court.