Back to Jail for Newly Released Inmate for Jailhouse Drugs

LIVINGSTON COUNTY – A former prison inmate from downstate was sentenced to another year’s incarceration Thursday morning at the Livingston County courthouse for sneaking drugs into prison.

According to the NYS Department of Corrections, Michael Ezzo, 38, was released from prison in March after he served less than two years for drug possession he committed in Queens, NY, but on Thursday was convicted of Promoting Prison Contraband in the First Degree and was sentenced to a year at the Livingston County Jail.

“I take responsibility for what I’ve done,” said Ezzo at sentencing. “I know my criminal history is not great but my wife and family need me down in New York.”

Judge Dennis Cohen said that though it is tough, the court’s ultimate concern is public safety, and crimes of this nature create an unsafe environment in prisons.

“I don’t like being in this position, but it is my job to look at this case and evaluate it,” said Judge Cohen. “I don’t disagree with you that a lot of people need you to support them, but I need to make sure of the safety and rehabilitation of inmates in the corrections system. You should know that better than anyone, you’ve got 12 criminal convictions on this.”

Ezzo’s attorney, Michael Deprima, asked Judge Cohen to consider special information he provided the court as part of his decision.

“He may not be the most sympathetic individual in your eyes,” said Deprima, “but I would ask the court to keep an open mind in regard to sentence based on information I provided the court pre-sentence.”

PHOTO CAPTION: (Photo/Livingston County Sheriff’s Office)

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