Manawa Man Charged With Misdemeanor Possession of Prescription Drugs and Controlled Substances

MANAWA - Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen announced that on February24, 2011, an attorney for the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ), acting as special prosecutor for Waupaca County, filed a summons and criminal complaint in Waupaca County Circuit Court against Benjamin Barrington (y.o.b. 1974). The complaint alleges a count of misdemeanor possession of a prescription substance (hydrocodone) (PTAC) and a misdemeanor count of possession of a controlled substance (cocaine).

The maximum possible penalty for the possession of a prescription drug charge is a fine of not more than $500 or imprisonment for not more than six months or both. The maximum possible penalty is a fine of not more than $5000 and imprisonment for not more than one year in the county jail, or both.

According to the criminal complaint, Barrington developed a long term relationship with another individual involved with the sale of controlled substances (cocaine) in the Waupaca area. On an ongoing basis in 2008 and 2009, Barrington purchased cocaine from the other individual for personal use. In addition, in 2009 Barrington shared prescription medication with the individual.

The matter is tentatively scheduled for an initial appearance in Waupaca County Circuit Court on March 9, 2011 at 11:30 a.m.

The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The charges are the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Division of Criminal Investigation with assistance from the Waupaca County Sheriff's Department. Assistant Attorney General Donald V. Latorraca represents the state.

A copy of the criminal complaint is available at: