Smith Sentenced to 78 Years

State Attorney Bill Eddins announced that on August 24, 2012, Russell Smith was found guilty of Burglary with Assault or Battery and Criminal Mischief, by an Escambia County Jury.

 On January 16, 2012, Smith knocked on the victim’s door several times before kicking it in, presumably to steal from the victim expecting no one to be home. The victim and his two sons chased Smith from their home and detained him until the Escambia County Sheriffs Office arrived. At the time of this offense, Smith was on probation for multiple counts of Burglary and was also found guilty of violating his probation. Following the trial Judge Linda Nobles sentenced the defendant to 78 years in state prison to cover all charges.

 The investigation and arrest was conducted by the Escambia County Sheriffs Office. Assistant State Attorney Michael Riley prosecuted the case. For further information, please contact Mr. Riley at 595-4249.