FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 2, 2008

Repeat offender convicted in drug case

State Attorney Steve Meadows announces the conviction, in Bay County Circuit Court, of Patrick J. Briggs, on a charge of Possession of Cocaine with intent to sell or deliver.

The jury deliberated just 38 minutes, Tuesday evening, before finding Briggs, BM, DOB: 11-26-1973, Bay Avenue, Panama City, guilty the May 12, 2006, offense. Briggs was on bond for aggravated assault when this crime was committed. He also has prior convictions for manslaughter, aggravated battery, drugs, and resisting officers without violence. He has been sentenced to prison on four prior occasions.

Sentencing is set for April 14, 2008. Briggs faces a maximum of 15 years in prison. Florida law does not permit a Habitual Offender finding for possession charges.