Herndon sentences crack dealer to 25 years

Christopher Taylor, 39, of Alton was sentenced to 25 years in prison, a $500 fine and was placed on a five year supervised release by U.S. District Judge David Herndon.

Taylor had been tried and convicted in a jury trial of a two-count superseding indictment on charges of possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute and distribution of crack cocaine.

The indictment claimed Taylor had in his possession with the intent to distribute 5.9 grams of crack cocaine on Jan. 22, 2004.

It also claimed Taylor had 12.8 grams on Sept. 10, 2003.

On Sept. 16, 2005, Taylor was convicted after a four-day trial.

While awaiting his sentence, Taylor filed a motion to be released until he was sentenced, however Herndon denied the motion stating he felt Taylor was a flight risk and a potential danger to the community.

The case was handled by assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas M. Daly and Andrew Simonson.