Columbia University student in drug case won't be jailed
Columbia University campus (Oct. 10, 2007) Credit: AP
A former Columbia University student is headed for drug-abuse treatment, instead of prison, after being charged as part of a drug-dealing ring at the school.
A judge OK'd the plan Tuesday for Christopher Coles. The 21-year-old will end up with a clean record if he succeeds in a year of inpatient treatment.
Coles was charged primarily with selling marijuana — as much as a pound of it on one occasion. Defense lawyer Marc Agnifilo says Coles was trying to get money to feed his own marijuana habit and had sought treatment before his arrest.
The New York City Special Narcotics Prosecutor's office says Coles' dealing was motivated by profit, not addiction.
Two other ex-students have pleaded guilty in the case.
Cases against another two remain unresolved.
Hunt for toxins expands ... Phasing out Regents ... Early voting and what you need to know ... Out East: 'Grape' time of year
Hunt for toxins expands ... Phasing out Regents ... Early voting and what you need to know ... Out East: 'Grape' time of year
