Inmate admits to bringing fentanyl into jail

Lafreniere

Inmate admits to bringing fentanyl into jail

By Allison Scarbrough, News Editor

LUDINGTON — A 40-year-old Mason County Jail inmate faces a prison term after pleading guilty to bringing contraband into a prison/jail and fourth-offense habitual offender in 51st Circuit Court Tuesday, Jan. 30.

The Michigan Department of Corrections is recommending a two to 10 year prison term for Jaydee Vernon Lafreniere, said Mason County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Beth Hand during a final pretrial conference. In exchange for the plea, the prosecution agrees not to charge Lafreniere with fentanyl possession, said Hand. 

The maximum possible term for the conviction is five years. Lafreniere’s habitual offender status elevated his possible maximum term to life in prison, said Judge Susan K. Sniegowski.

“On July 2, 2022, did you bring fentanyl into a correctional facility?” Judge Sniegowksi asked. “Yes,” answered Lafreniere. 

According to MDOC records, he has served previous prison terms for convictions of methamphetamine possession, marijuana possession, car theft, cocaine manufacture/delivery, receiving and concealing firearms, assaulting/resisting/obstructing police and marijuana manufacture/delivery. 

Sentencing is scheduled for March 19 at 2:30 p.m.

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