Harney County man sentenced to 18 months Oregon Department of Corrections
By Mindy Gould on Tuesday, November 26th, 2024 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories
BURNS(Released by Harney County Circuit Court)-Michale Pannell was sentenced to 18 months Oregon Department of Corrections after pleading guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
In March 2024 the Harney county Sheriff’s Office compiled information from sources reporting Pannell was in possession of firearms. Cross referencing information with historical contacts at the residents, a search warrant was obtained for 491 E. Jackson St, Burns, Oregon. March 25 the warrant was executed and Pannell was found in possession of multiple firearms. Despite volumes of items associated with firearms visible throughout the residence, Pannell claimed no knowledge or possession of the firearms. However, observations made by Deputy Shyanne Fine combined with Pannell’s statements disproved his claims.
Harney County District Attorney Ryan Hughes prosecuted the case. A grand jury indicted Pannell on Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Felon in Possession of a Restricted Weapon.
Pannell plead guilty to the felony charge and admitted a probation violation. Given Pannell’s criminal history, Hughes requested the top of the felony grid block sentencing. Judge Raschio sentenced accordingly, sentencing Pannell to 18 months department of corrections and denied alternative incarceration programs given Pannell was on probation at the time he committed the offense. Upon release, Pannell will be subject to 24 months post prison supervision.
