WCoutlook

Local attorney George Bertram sentenced to five years in prison

By MELODIE PHELPS

News Editor

Local attorney George Bertram has been sentenced to five years in prison for first degree possession of a controlled substance while in possession of a firearm.

Formal sentencing was handed down by Circuit Judge Eddie C. Lovelace on Thursday, March 21.

A Russell County jury found Bertram guilty on the possession charge and D.U.I. following a trial held there earlier this month. The charges stem from a Wayne County arrest, but the case had been moved to Russell County for a jury trial.

Lovelace followed the jury’s recommendation of a five year sentence on the possession charge, which was enhanced because of the firearm. The jury recommended a 30 day sentence for the D.U.I. charge and a $500 fine.

According to court documents the two sentences will run concurrently, and probation for Bertram, who was represented by attorney David Tapp of Somerset, was denied.

Bertram was given credit for 34 days also served at the Wayne County Detention Center, and he was remanded to custody following the sentencing last week.

A $50,000 cash appeal bond was set in the case, according to court documents.