On March 23, 2010, Tulare County Superior Court Judge Patrick O’Hara imposed a prison sentence of 10 years on 26-year-old Eric Joel Massey of Tulare for transportation of methamphetamine while armed with a firearm on two separate occasions, possession of a deadly weapon, driving while under the influence, and possession of marijuana. When Massey entered his plea, he also admitted that he suffered a prior strike and one prior prison term. The defendant pled no contest to the charges on February 9, 2010.

On September 20, 2009, Visalia police officers were dispatched to the scene of a hit and run accident. Massey was apprehended by police after fleeing the scene of the accident. Marijuana, a Colt .45 and .38 special were found in his possession. Methamphetamine was located in his abandoned truck.

On October 18, 2009, Massey was again stopped for transporting methamphetamine. A .25 caliber firearm was found in his possession this time around.

On November 25, 2009, Visalia police discovered Massey carrying a concealed 12-inch-dagger on his person.

These cases were prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Matt Darby and investigated by officers Andy Swarthout and Ken Smythe of the Visalia Police Department.

Contact Person: Assistant District Attorney, Shani D. Jenkins (559) 733-6411.