A Walkerton woman was sentenced on a reduced charge in Starke Circuit Court Thursday morning.
Tamara Esparza pleaded guilty to an amended charge of neglect of a dependent as a felony. However, due to her lack of a criminal record, her cooperation with a drug investigation and her ability to do what’s best for her situation and her daughter, the felony count was reduced to a misdemeanor as ordered by Judge Kim Hall. The order was also made so she could remain gainfully employed.
Officers from the Starke County Sheriff’s Department found heroin, drug paraphernalia and syringes while serving a search warrant at a home on Long Lane Drive this morning following a six-month-long narcotics investigation. Frank Esparza, Jr. faces charges of dealing heroin, possession of heroin, possession of syringes and maintaining a common nuisance. Maria Esparza was booked on a charge of maintaining a common nuisance, as was Tamara Esparza. She’s also charged with neglect of a dependent. A fourth suspect, Anthony Esparza, faces charges of maintaining a common nuisance, neglect of a dependent and possession of a syringe.
