BARTON COUNTY – A former Kansas State Trooper was sentenced on Monday for aggravated assault.

The hearing for Darrin Hirsh, 40, at the Barton County Courtroom took nearly three hours after attempts for acquittal, a new trial, and statements from family members.

Judge Ron Svaty sentenced him to 18 months to be served in the Barton County Jail.

Hirsh was convicted last December of threatening his wife and children in March 2013. Hirsh was found guilty of aggravated assault, two counts of criminal threat, and domestic battery.

Hirsh’s ex-wife, Candace Hirsh, stated Darrin held a pistol to her head on March 12, 2013 and made threats to her and their three sons.

In an attempt to have the case acquitted, the defense attorney stated there was bias-based policing. The defense claimed the Kansas Bureau of Investigation focused solely on Candice’s comments and her as a victim because she was female. Judge Svaty ruled that the jury found Darrin guilty based on evidence and not based on gender bias and the judge refused to overturn the jury’s decision based on this claim.

The defense then asked for a new trial based on the jury being confused as to what was considered a deadly weapon. In testimony, Darrin was said to have used a pillow against Candice. The pillow was not to be considered a deadly weapon in convicting Darrin for the crime. The judge said it was clear to the jury that the handgun was the only deadly weapon for conviction.

Judge Svaty mentioned after the sentencing he wanted to send a message to the public on his ruling that law enforcement will be treated like any ordinary citizen when it comes to being punished.

Svaty also said he felt Hirsh’s decision to have a baby with another woman earlier this month was a planned child to potentially help out his case as to why he should receive probation.

Hirsh has already served 141 days in jail since his December 22, 2015 sentencing that will be subtracted the time he must serve.

Hirsh and the defense have 14 days to file for appeal.