Hughes sentenced

Jarid Wayne Hughes, born 1991, of Weston County, Wyoming, was sentenced on July 15 to two to four years’ imprisonment, which was  suspended, and he will instead serve three years of supervised probation for endangering children, a felony. He was also sentenced to 90 days’ incarceration, with 81 days suspended, followed by six months of unsupervised probation for possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), a misdemeanor. Both sentences are to run concurrently. 

In addition, Hughes was also ordered to pay $275 in fines, including $40 for court automation surcharge and $150 to the Crime Victims Compensation Fund. A $750 public defender fee was waived due to inability to pay. 

According to court documents, on Dec. 21, 2024, Hughes was stopped for speeding (80 mph in a 70 mph zone) on U.S. Highway 16 in Weston County. During the stop, Trooper Brandon Morton detected the odor of marijuana, and Hughes admitted to possessing marijuana and methamphetamine, as well as driving with a suspended license. A child in the vehicle was unrestrained. 

Hughes was charged with multiple offenses, including felony child endangerment and several misdemeanors related to drug possession, driving offenses and child restraint. 

The Wyoming Highway Patrol investigated the crime. Michael Stulken, prosecuting attorney for Weston County, prosecuted the crime. Hughes pleaded guilty to endangering children and possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine). Sixth Circuit Court Judge Matthew F.G. Castano imposed the sentence on July 15.