A Marinette County judge called a major methamphetamine conspiracy case one of the largest and most damaging drug operations he has seen in nearly 15 years on the bench, as Twenty-Four-year-old Maya Lindsay was sentenced Friday in Marinette County Court.

Judge James Morrison delivered emotional remarks during the hearing, focusing not only on the scale of the crimes, but also Lindsay’s traumatic upbringing, addiction struggles, and the need for accountability.

Judge Morrison described the case as one of the most serious drug conspiracy cases ever prosecuted in Marinette County, saying the impact on the community is “incalculable.”

The judge said Lindsay played a major role in distributing hundreds of street doses of methamphetamine throughout the area.

But Morrison also acknowledged the horrific childhood trauma detailed in Lindsay’s pre-sentence investigation report.

Family members pleaded with the court for treatment and counseling instead of lengthy incarceration, describing Lindsay as someone capable of rebuilding her life. Lindsay herself told the court she has spent time reflecting on her mistakes and is now choosing to rebuild. Judge Morrison later challenged her directly, saying accountability means more than simply admitting wrongdoing.

Judge Morrison ultimately said prison time was necessary because of the magnitude of the drug operation and the devastation caused throughout the community, while also expressing hope that Lindsay could still turn her life around. Lindsay is sentenced to seven to thirteen years in prison.

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