Man receives delayed sentence for home invasion.

LeClair

Man receives delayed sentence for home invasion.

LUDINGTON — A 61-year-old Midland man received a delayed sentence in 51st Circuit Court Tuesday, Nov. 16, for breaking into a home in 2019.

Joseph Michael LeClair, formerly of Mason County, pleaded “no contest” to second-degree home invasion, Sept. 15. A felony charge of possession of analogues was dismissed.

LeClair who was arrested in April of 2020 by the Michigan State Police, has been lodged in jail for 573 days. The offense date is Oct. 18, 2019, according to court records.

“A lot of time went into crafting this sentencing agreement,” said Mason County Prosecutor Lauren Kreinbrink. “This is an old 2019 case, and the defendant was found incompetent to stand trial.” LeClair’s mental competency was later restored, said Kreinbrink.

LeClair has a lengthy criminal record, said the prosecutor, and the victim in the case said that his mental health is a concern. “The home he broke into is a secondary home, and she expressed great fear of the defendant.”

LeClair’s attorney Cory Rickett said his client is working with community mental health. “Mr. LeClair is taking the steps he needs to take. He’s on the right path,” said Rickett.

Restitution is reserved for 90 days. According to court records, the amount is over $10,000.

“The agreement is fair and reasonable,” said Judge Susan K. Sniegowski. LeClair’s probation is on a delay of sentence for 11 months. After 11 months, the court will determine if there is a need to continue probation. 

He received credit for 573 days served in jail. 

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