ST. GEORGE, Utah ( ABC4 ) — A Sterling, Colorado, man previously convicted of multiple felonies has been sentenced to prison in Utah on drug and weapons charges, according to a press release from the district attorney’s office.
Markeith Candler, 42, pleaded guilty on June 10, 2024, to felon in possession of a firearm and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, as well as five years of supervised release.
On Jan. 12, 2024, a Utah Highway Patrol trooper conducted a traffic stop for speeding. Candler was identified as the rear passenger in the vehicle.
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During a vehicle check, a police K9 showed signs of the presence of narcotics. Troopers conducted a search and found a Glock 22 — later confirmed to belong to Candler.
“The firearm possessed a switch, that allowed for the gun to be used as an automatic weapon and was loaded with a magazine and a round in the chamber. Additional magazines, including large capacity magazines, were found next to the firearm,” the press release states.