A 25-year-old Gardnerville Ranchos man was returned to prison Monday for five years after he pleaded guilty to grand larceny for breaking into vehicles in the Gardnerville Ranchos.
Matthew Anton entered his plea and was sentenced the same day by District Judge Michael Gibbons.
Gibbons told Anton he must serve a minimum of two years before he is eligible for parole. Gibbons also imposed a $10,000 fine.
Gibbons waived a new presentence investigation because Anton was sentenced in 2006 for possession of stolen property.
His lawyer, Tod Young, said Anton was out of custody for eight days before he reoffended Jan. 28.
"His criminal activity all has to do with the lure of methamphetamine," Young said. "This is not a worthless person. He acts horribly when he pursues the drug."
Anton was arrested by a deputy who recognized him from prior contacts after a Glenwood Drive resident said she could see someone in her vehicle because the interior light went on.
Anton was arrested with two women's purses, bank checks, two prescription bottles, an iPod, and postage stamps.
Young said the items were returned to their owners.
"I hopped out of the vehicle and didn't try to run," Anton said. "The deputy knew me by name.
"Throughout my life, I have struggled with addiction. I hope to get in a facility with a recovery program. I've had that option, but I refused it," Anton said. "I want to go to prison, do my time and get back out to treat my addiction. It all relates to meth. I'm setting myself up for a life sentence if I don't get a grip on this."
Gibbons gave Anton credit for 28 days in Douglas County Jail.
