Pleas from family and friends was not sufficient to help Earnest Ray Toney avoid a lengthy prison sentence for a recent conviction on methamphetamine charges. Superior Court Judge Tommy Hankinson sentenced Toney Wednesday to 25 years for trafficking and five years for possession. The sentences will run concurrently.

The 56 year-old Hampton man had been found guilty on criminal attempt to traffick in methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine, but was taken out of the courtroom by paramedics May 21 after complaining that his left side was numb.

Toney’s exit from the courtroom came before he could be sentenced.

Toney’s wife, step-daughter and a family friend all advocated today for a reduced sentence, referencing his sole support of his family and extended family.

Toney was one of two men arrested for attempting to purchase a half-pound of methamphetamine from Fayette Drug Task Force undercover agents at the Peachtree City Home Depot in June 2007.

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