Three more drive-by shooting case co-defendants sentenced
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (July 31, 2024) – A drive-by shooting case with seven co-defendants is coming to a close.
The three men in the vehicle with the gunman, driver, and supposed mastermind in the October 23rd shooting in New Philadelphia will each spend three years in prison for their involvement. Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Court Judge Michael Ernest handed down the punishments earlier this week, encouraging William L. Baldez, John R. Hoopingarner, and Robert D. Meek II to request early release when they become eligible.
“It’s not mandatory prison, and I’m obligated to consider any motion that’s filed for judicial release… I don’t make promises, though, as to what I would do other than to tell you that I promise you I would not grant your motion if you can’t follow the rules in the institution.”
Prosecutor Ryan Styer acknowledged that the three men were less culpable than their cohorts in the vehicle that night but requested a harsh punishment to deter others from similar acts.
“Your Honor, drug-fueled gun crimes are something that our community seems to see a lot more of these days and should not be tolerated.”
No one was injured in the shooting that occurred while the target was standing on a porch and the homeowner was inside sleeping. The only suspect remaining at this point is Matthew K. Miller, 21, of New Philadelphia, who’s accused of luring the target outside. He remains in the county jail ahead of his sentencing for felonious assault.