CHEYENNE, Wyo. — A Colorado woman was sentenced to three years of supervised probation in Laramie County District Court on Thursday, Dec. 26 after pleading guilty to a felony drug possession charge. Judge Peter H. Froelicher granted Charvel Martinez, 26, a deferral under Wyoming’s statute for first-time offenders, allowing her to avoid a formal conviction if she complies with probation requirements.
Martinez, a Colorado resident, pleaded guilty to possessing fentanyl pills as part of a plea agreement. In exchange, prosecutors dismissed a misdemeanor methamphetamine possession charge stemming from a May traffic stop near Cheyenne. During the stop, deputies discovered drugs in Martinez’s vehicle after a drug-sniffing canine alerted them to narcotics.
The prosecution backed the plea deal, citing Martinez’s agreement to probation and treatment. Defense attorney Sarah Soule highlighted Martinez’s lack of criminal history and her willingness to engage in rehabilitation efforts. Judge Froelicher approved the agreement, ordering treatment and waiving $500 in public defender fees. Martinez was also assessed $325 in court costs.
Court records show Martinez and a passenger were stopped by Deputy Gebauer on May 22 for expired vehicle registration. A search of the vehicle revealed fentanyl pills weighing approximately 14 grams and a small amount of methamphetamine. Both occupants admitted knowledge of the drugs, according to the affidavit.
Under Wyoming Statute §7-13-301, Martinez’s guilty plea will not be formally entered if she successfully completes probation. However, any violations could result in a prison sentence of up to seven years and fines of up to $15,000.
