LORETTA PHILLIPS SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS IN THE DIVISON OF CORRECTIONS FOR POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE OXYCODONE

PRESS RELEASE

On June 16, 2014, Loretta Phillips, age 36, of Wicomico County, Maryland, was convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone. She was subsequently sentenced by the Circuit Court to an active sentence of six (6) years in the Division of Corrections (“D.O.C.”). (Her complete sentence was “fifteen (15) years suspend all but six (6) years in the D.O.C.”).

The charges against Phillips arose out of her arrest on December 4, 2013 when she was stopped by the Maryland State Police for a traffic violation. Maryland State Police Officers found oxycodone (15mg and 30mg) and $371.00 in U.S. currency concealed within her purse. Further investigation revealed that Phillips’ cell phone contained numerous text messages pertaining to the illegal sale of oxycodone.

Wicomico County State’s Attorney Matthew A. Maciarello commented that the abuse of heroin and semi-synthetic opioids, such as oxycodone (“Oxy”), impacts the quality of life of the citizens of Wicomico County so substantially that illegal distribution of these substances will be vigorously investigated and prosecuted.

Mr. Maciarello commended the Maryland State Police and the Wicomico County Narcotics Task Force for their excellent collaboration in the investigation and prosecution of this case. Mr. Maciarello also thanked Safe Streets Prosecutor, Richard J. Brueckner Jr., who prosecuted this case.

Wicomico County Health Department addictions counselors can be reached by calling (410) 742-DRUG (3784). Any person with questions or concerns about addictions is encouraged to call this hotline.

For more information or for an interview please call the Office of the State’s Attorney at (410) 548-4880 or go to www.wicomicosao.com.