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Sentence for stealing guns for drug money

Woman appreciates mercy shown

A Marietta woman was sentenced to 30 days in the Washington County Jail Monday for stealing some of her ex-boyfriend’s guns in order to obtain funds for drugs.

Ashley Mullen, 29, of 918 Front St., Marietta, was sentenced for one count of grand theft of a firearm, a third-degree felony.

Allegedly, Mullen had stolen three of her ex-boyfriend’s guns and sold them to a pawn shop.

“If somebody acknowledges that they have a drug problem, a lot of people do often commit theft offenses,” said Washington County Assistant Prosecutor Amy Graham.

Defense attorney Rolf Baumgartel noted that she had done so to buy drugs to continue using. However, after getting caught, she sobered up and hasn’t used since.

“She had just taken some of her ex-boyfriend’s guns, sold them at a pawn shop and used the proceeds for drugs,” said Baumgartel. “She’s been clean from the beginning and went and got help.”

Before Washington County Common Pleas Court Judge Randall Burnworth delivered her sentence, Mullen asked to make a statement to the court.

“I would like to thank you for saving my life,” began Mullen as she started to choke up. “Without you guys, I wouldn’t be standing here.”

Mullen also thanked the Washington County Prosecutor’s Office for holding her accountable for what she had done while also being lenient and understanding.

“Thank you for making me have consequences for my actions, but showing me mercy when I didn’t deserve it,” she said.

After a plea agreement, Mullen pleaded guilty to once count of grand theft of a firearm, a third-degree felony on Aug. 5.

Mullen was credited with eight days of time already served, reducing her remaining sentence to 22 days in jail. Upon release, Mullen will have one year of community control. She also was not fined.

“You did what you did to get your fix,” said Burnworth, noting that the drug problem is devastating to the area and that he hopes she remains sober. “It’s a horrible, horrible creature that’s been a part of everything going on here.”

Baumgartel said he believes that Mullen will do well and will continue to free herself from her drug addiction.

“I think she has a real chance,” he said.

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