Approx Picture Date
2014-03-28 – Photo courtesy Kansas Department of Corrections
MANHATTAN- A Kansas man, awaiting a trial for arson, was sentenced in Riley County Court for drug distribution on Monday.
According to the prosecutor, Donnie Hill, 43, Manhattan, was on parole for the distribution of narcotics when he was arrested in June of 2015 for the distribution of marijuana.
Hill’s attorney submitted a motion for downward departure in order to try to reduce the possible sentence time but was denied.
Judge Stutzman stated there was not sufficient reason for the departure, and Hill had a criminal history with 12 felonies, as well as a recent arrest for arson since he had entered a plea in the distribution case.
Hill was was arrested on February 20, 2016 on the offense of arson and theft in connection to a house fire at 615 Yuma street that occurred on February 12.
He was found at the scene of the fire with a significant cut to his arm and was transported to Via Christi Hospital.
The Manhattan Fire Department responded to the fire, but the house was a total loss and was listed at $95,000.
Judge Stutzman sentenced Hill for 46 months for distribution of marijuana.
The arson hearing is still pending in Riley County Court.