John William “Fatman” Smith, 42, was found guilty of manufacturing methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance first degree during a jury trial on March 26.

The jury further recommended a 15-year and three-year sentence on the respective charges with the two sentences to run consecutively for a total of 18 years.

Final sentencing was set for April 17.

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The City of Gamaliel has been approved for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) in the amount of $660,000 to be used for improvements to the existing sewer system, but the city is still waiting to hear back on additional grant funds needed to complete the project, according discussion at last Monday night’s regular Gamaliel Commission meeting.

City Attorney Richard Jackson told the group that he had been in contact with Gene Becker, the BRADD representative overseeing the grant process. Becker advised that Gamaliel is in line to receive additional funds and should not take any new action where the sewer system is concerned until formal approval. Commissioners approved second reading of an ordinance amending the budget in order to receive the $660,000 in grant funds.