DALLAS, Texas (Court TV) -- Former Dallas Cowboys offensive lineman Nate Newton was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on August 14 after pleading guilty to drug charges.
Newton, 40, was apprehended with 175 pounds of marijuana in his truck last December. He pleaded guilty in April to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute. Newton also was fined $25,000 and ordered to perform 250 hours of community service, lecturing students about the importance of avoiding drugs.
By pleading guilty, Newton avoided a possible 20-year sentence and a $1 million fine. He is scheduled to report to prison on October 8.
Authorities found $10,000 cash in his truck and the marijuana in an accompanying vehicle. The driver of the other car, Charles Deaundra Howard, 25, and a third suspect, Billy Crenshaw also pleaded guilty.
At the time of his arrest, Newton was free on bail for a similar incident in Louisiana. He is accused of driving a van with 213 pounds of marijuana on November 4, 2001. The case is pending.
Newton played 13 seasons in Dallas and was named to the Pro Bowl six times. He also helped the Cowboys win three Super Bowls in the 1990s. He retired in 1999 after playing one season with the Carolina Panthers.
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