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Pat Sullivan Pleads Guilty To Possession & Soliciting, Gets Jail Time

CENTENNIAL, Colo. (CBS4) - Former Arapahoe County Sheriff Pat Sullivan pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine and soliciting a prostitute at a court hearing Tuesday afternoon.

Sullivan was immediately sentenced after the hearing. A judge sentenced him to 38 days in the county jail that bears his name, but he'll only serve 30 days because of time already served. He was also fined $1,100 and will have to serve two years probation.

The 69-year-old former sheriff was charged with distribution of a controlled substance, possession of methamphetamine, prostitution and attempting to influence a public official.

The charges stem from a law enforcement sting last November. Police said they caught Sullivan attempting to trade meth for sex with a male acquaintance.

However, CBS4 reported in early March that Sullivan and prosecutors were engaged in plea bargain discussions, which had apparently led to the agreement.

Sullivan entered the courtroom Tuesday with the aid of a cane. He's had surgeries on both of his legs and his left leg's lower region is paralyzed.

Pat Sullivan
Pat Sullivan in his mug shot taken on April 4, 2012 (credit: Arapahoe County Sheriff)

The defense told the judge Sullivan had a stellar record during his 19 years as sheriff and his position shouldn't be used against him. But prosecutors said Sullivan used his position to trade meth for sex numerous times.

Prosecutors said he disgraced the badge and used his authority to commit criminal activity and used meth for sex time and time again; and possibly with an underage individual. They said he crossed the line and wanted Sullivan to spend time in jail or prison. The defense argued for only probation.

"He used that badge to have influence over a very, very vulnerable community," Deputy Attorney General Michael Daugherty said. "So I think it's an appropriate and just sentence."

Sullivan addressed the court and said, "I apologize to the court, my family and the community. I offer no excuse for my behavior and I look forward to moving on with my life."

"The lesson we learned here is law enforcement is held to a very high standard in this state," Daugherty said.

He will also have to complete a substance abuse program. While he's in jail he'll spend his time in isolation to protect him from other inmates.

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