Train rider pleads guilty on drug charges, judge denies release

Alejandro Romero, a nine-time convicted felon, pleaded guilty to four drug-related offenses and was denied release on his own recognizance Thursday afternoon in state District Court.

Romero was charged with nine offenses related to an incident Jan. 27 in which he was arrested at the Havre Amtrak depot. He pleaded guilty to criminal possession with intent to distribute, use or possession of property subject to criminal forfeiture, criminal possession of drug paraphernalia and criminal possession of dangerous drugs, marijuana less than 60 grams, 2nd offense.

State District Court Judge Daniel Boucher set Romero's sentencing date for June 27 at 10:45 a.m.

Romero's public defender, Karen Alley, also asked that Boucher let Romero out on his own recognizance. Alley said Romero was considering moving to Montana with his fiance after his legal proceedings in Washington state are finished.

The state, represented by Deputy Hill County Attorney Carolyn Gray, objected to letting Romero out. Gray said Romero's numerous past felony convictions, his history of gang-related activity and continuing drug activity from jail — via phone calls — are reasons he should not be allowed out.

Boucher agreed with Gray and said Romero will stay in jail.