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Brent L. Tanner Sr., 37, was sentenced to five years in state prison followed by 2.5 years of post-release supervision for third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance (a Class B felony) by Judge Jon Budelmann that morning in Cayuga County Court.

Tanner's sentence is running consecutively with a previous unrelated sentence. Budelmann also allowed him to be eligible for substance issue recovery programs. 

Tanner's attorney, Ben Susman, said his client has addiction issues and gave proof to the judge that the defendant participated in recovery services with the nonprofits Nick's Ride 4 Friends and Confidential Help for Alcohol & Drugs at the Cayuga County Jail. 

Cayuga County District Attorney's Office Special Counsel Mark Moody said the office believes Tanner's problems stemmed more from selling drugs than addiction.

When asked by Budelmann whether there was anything he wanted to say, Tanner apologized to "the community, my kids, myself and anyone I let down."

"I'm really working to be a better member of society and hopefully get help for my addiction," he said.

Budelmann encouraged Tanner to continue his recovery efforts. After announcing the sentence, the judge wished the defendant good luck and said, "Hopefully we don't see you again here."

Tanner's sentence satisfied two other counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance.

The Auburn Police Department arrested Tanner in January after state parole officers conducted a compliance check during which he was found to be in possession of cocaine, crack and fentanyl, plus paraphernalia for their packaging and distribution. The check was prompted by multiple citizen complaints about illegal activity and disruptive behavior.