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MITCHELL — A California man connected to a Mitchell drug investigation that resulted in the seizure of at least 16 pounds of marijuana was sentenced Tuesday, June 2, 2026, in Davison County court.
Judge Chris Giles sentenced 36-year-old Joshua Leach, of Ukiah, California, to 12 years in prison, with six years suspended, after Leach pleaded guilty to a Class 3 felony count of distributing or possessing with intent to distribute one pound or more of marijuana. He received credit for three days previously served and was ordered to pay a $1,250 fine.
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Leach entered the guilty plea in April as part of a plea agreement. In exchange, prosecutors dismissed three Class 4 felony charges: conspiracy to manufacture, distribute or possess THC wax; conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute one pound or more of marijuana; and conspiracy to manufacture, distribute or possess THC oil.
According to court documents, investigators alleged that Leach mailed marijuana, THC wax and THC oil to 34-year-old Mitchell resident Chelsi Garness between March 5 and March 12, 2025.
When officers searched Garness’ home on March 14, they seized $8,500 in cash and recovered approximately 16 pounds of marijuana, 3 pounds of THC wax and 1 pound of THC oil cartridges. Investigators also found additional marijuana, psilocybin mushrooms, THC cartridges, THC vape pens and a pistol inside the residence.
During Tuesday’s sentencing hearing, Leach expressed remorse for his actions.
“I feel shame and guilt. I have never been more sorry for anything in my life,” he said.
Before imposing the sentence, Giles said the pre-sentence investigation showed Leach had a minimal criminal history. However, the judge said the conduct outlined in the case did not appear to be an isolated incident.
Giles also noted that Leach’s actions did not seem to stem from addiction.
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“You’re a drug dealer for profit,” Giles said.
Garness is expected to be arraigned June 30 on charges related to the investigation.
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