Claude Eugene Montgomery Jr.

A Smith County jury convicted Claude Eugene Montgomery Jr. of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to deliver, a first-degree felony.

Last week, the jury sentenced Montgomery to 60 years in prison after prosecutors presented evidence that he had over 100 multicolored methamphetamine pills shaped like superhero logos and common prescription drugs, such as Xanax, the district attorney’s office said in a press release.

The prosecution demonstrated that Montgomery intended to distribute these drugs.

During sentencing, prosecutors pointed out Montgomery’s criminal history, including two 2016 drug dealing convictions for which he had been sentenced to 45 years in prison. After serving six years, Montgomery was released on parole.

Smith County District Attorney Jacob Putman expressed concern over the dangerous nature of drugs marketed to younger individuals or disguised as prescription medication.

“Whenever we see hard drugs clearly marketed to a very young demographic or disguised as prescription medicine, we consider it a major safety risk to the community,” Putman said.

The Smith County District Attorney’s Office commended the Tyler Police Department for its thorough investigation and arrest of Montgomery.

Montgomery will be eligible for parole on his 60-year sentence after serving 15 years, although the possibility of early release through good-time credit remains.