An inmate serving prison time for drug convictions will spend more time behind bars after pleading guilty to possessing dangerous drugs for sale while housed in the state prison facility in Golden Valley. A 2023 release date had been in effect for Joseph Valdez, 46, who is serving a nine year sentence for Maricopa County drug convictions.
Mohave County Superior Court Judge Rick Lambert, however, imposed another seven year sentence July 23 that will run consecutive to Valdez’ nine year hitch. Lambert said using and selling drugs in a prison facility is dangerous for inmates and guards alike.
Prosecutor Megan McCoy said corrections officers seized seven grams of heroin and one gram of methamphetamine during a pat down search of Valdez last June at the prison located on West English Drive. She said the drugs had been separated out into bindles for sale and distribution within the secure facility.
