A Henderson County jury this week found Jeffrey Lee Sharp guilty of Possession of a Controlled Substance of Four grams or more, but less than 200 grams. Following the guilty verdict, 392nd District Court Judge R. Scott McKee sentenced Sharp to life in prison.
The case originated on October 26, 2023, when Henderson County Sheriff's Office Investigator Jude Bonner conducted a traffic stop in the 1803 block of Main Street in Gun Barrel City. Investigator Bonner reported detecting the odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle, which was driven and solely occupied by Sharp. A subsequent probable cause search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a clear baggie containing multiple smaller baggies of methamphetamine, a baggie of marijuana, and a burnt marijuana cigarette. A Texas Department of Public Safety lab analyst testified that the methamphetamine weighed over 10 grams.
The court heard testimony regarding Sharp's extensive criminal history as a habitual offender, which led to the enhancement of his punishment due to prior consecutive prison sentences. At the time of this offense, Sharp was on parole. His prior convictions include a 35-year prison sentence in 2010 for Delivery of a Controlled Substance, a 35-year sentence in 1992 for Burglary of a Habitation in Hays County, a 20-year sentence in 1993 for Injury to a Child in Blanco County, a three-year sentence in Blanco County for Burglary in 1986, and a five-year sentence in Blanco County in 1980 for Burglary.
District Attorney Jenny Palmer, Assistant District Attorney Katy Colts, and First Assistant District Attorney Daniel Cox represented the State in the case.
"This defendant has repeatedly shown a disregard for the law and the safety of others," stated District Attorney Jenny Palmer. "This verdict and Judge McKee’s sentence reflect the seriousness of his crimes. Our office will continue to hold repeat offenders accountable and fight to keep Henderson County safe."
