Buchanan man gets jail, probation for domestic violence charge

A Buchanan man whose criminal history was described by a judge as being “replete with violent behavior” was given what amounts to one last chance to straighten out his life.

Justin Duane Rowe, 22, was sentenced Monday in Berrien County Trial Court to three years probation and 180 days in jail on one count of domestic violence as a third offense.

Prior to handing down the sentence Judge Dennis Wiley read aloud from a list of the Buchanan man’s past criminal record, which included multiple instances of violent behavior, including domestic violence, malicious destruction of property, larceny and several drug offenses.

Wiley told Rowe that he is “sick” of the man’s “bad behavior.”

“You are a violent person and I fear for everyone around you,” said Wiley, who also ordered Rowe to successfully complete any mental health treatment ordered by the court.

Rowe must also spend 90 days on tether upon being released from jail.

As a condition of probation, Rowe is not allowed to have contact with the victim.

“Any slip ups, any violations and he will be going to prison,” said assistant prosecutor Amy Byrd.

Also Monday:

• Julie Delynn Lint, 43, of Benton Harbor, was sentenced to 180 days in jail for what Wiley said was Lint’s fourth drunken driving offense. Wiley said Lint had a blood alcohol level two times the legal limit when she rear-ended a vehicle at US-12 and Third Street in Niles Township. The last 60 days of her sentence may be served in a treatment program. She was also ordered to pay $2,035 in fines and court costs or spend 270 days in jail.

• Roberta Lynn Lee, 44, of Buchanan, was sentenced to 75 days in jail or pay $1,450 in fines on one count of operating with a high blood alcohol content. Wiley said she had a blood alcohol level of .417 and was lucky to be alive.

“That should have been enough to kill you,” he said.