Woman Avoids Jail Time on Drug Charge, Receives Treatment

By Brian Cole

Published on November 13, 2006

Nicole Farone, 34, pleaded guilty to heroin possession, two counts of aiding in the commission of a felony, and the sale of heroin. She will spend 20 months to six years on furlough. The charge of dispensing heroin was dismissed by the state.

If Farone violates the terms of her furlough, the judge said, she could spend up to six years in jail. During a nearly daylong hearing, Farone told the judge that she had sought treatment since her arrest and was working on putting her life back together. The case has been pending for nearly two years.

Assistant State Attorney General Annika Frostick argued that Farone should receive 20 month to six years in jail. Instead, a sentence much more closely resembling the one suggested by the defense attorney was implemented.