Former Montana Elementary Teacher Sentenced on Drug Charge

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A Montana judge has sentenced a former elementary school teacher who is married to a candidate for the state’s top education job to a three-year deferred sentence for felony drug possession.

Eric Lehman, the husband of Democratic candidate for public instruction superintendent Melissa Romano, pleaded guilty to possession of psilocybin mushrooms as part of an agreement with prosecutors.

Lehman said in a statement to the court that he’s been humbled by his addiction and is grateful that the traffic stop has had in helping him toward recovery.

Romano previously said it has been a difficult time for their family and that they are proud of Lehman for taking responsibility.

The Independent Record reports an officer found the mushrooms, along with LSD, methamphetamine and cocaine during an Aug. 31 traffic stop of Lehman.

Deputy Lewis and Clark County Attorney Dan Baris says he gave Lehman the option of choosing which drug he would be prosecuted for possessing. Baris says anyone in Lehman’s situation would be given that option.

The sentence means Lehamn does not have to serve any jail time if he meets conditions that include continuing treatment, obtaining a chemical dependency evaluation, completing 40 hours of community service and making a $500 contribution to the Missouri River Drug Task Force.