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NILES — A Niles man was sentenced to prison Monday in Berrien County Trial Court on drug, assault and firearm charges.

Samuel Mickey Chase, 50, of Niles, pleaded guilty to second offense use of marijuana, possession of a firearm by a felon, assault with a dangerous weapon and torturing/killing animals and was sentenced to four concurrent terms of 12 months to 24 months, four years, four years and five years in prison. He has credit for 74 days served and must pay $402 in fines and costs.

The incident occurred Dec. 21, 2022 in Niles and involved Chase pointing a gun at an officer. He must forfeit that weapon.

Defense attorney Tat Parish said Chase has significant health issues and could lose his home if incarcerated for a long period of time. Chase said he is afraid of losing his home.

Berrien County Trial Court Judge Jennifer Smith noted that Chase has a significant criminal history and failed to appear twice for court hearings in this case. “I don’t wish you to lose your home but it’s on you and your behavior,” she said. “You have to take responsibility for your actions.”