A Drew County jury has sentenced a Monticello woman to 15 years in prison after finding her guilty of possessing more than two grams of methamphetamine and related charges.
Christina Mix, 52, was convicted following a jury trial in Drew County Circuit Court. Jurors recommended a 15-year sentence in the Arkansas Department of Correction, which Circuit Judge Robert Gibson imposed.
The charges stem from an Oct. 30, 2025 traffic stop conducted by officers with the Monticello Police Department. During the stop, officers discovered Mix had an active felony warrant for her arrest.
A search of the vehicle uncovered a container located near Mix’s purse that contained approximately 8.8 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana and two glass pipes with suspected drug residue.
Prosecutors also charged Mix as a habitual offender because of more than two prior felony convictions. Under Arkansas law, individuals classified as habitual offenders are not eligible for probation or a suspended sentence.
During the sentencing phase of the trial, jurors heard evidence of Mix’s prior criminal history. Court records show she was convicted in 2018 for possession of methamphetamine and received probation. In 2019, while still on probation, she committed another methamphetamine offense, resulting in the revocation of her probation and a 24-month sentence to a Community Correction Center.
During the trial, Mix testified that she used methamphetamine to help control her high blood pressure.
The state was represented in the case by Tenth Judicial District Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Kelley Fortenberry, while Mix was represented by attorney Whitney Romans.
Following the verdict, Fortenberry thanked the jury for its service and attention during the trial, stating the sentence was appropriate given Mix’s criminal history and the amount of methamphetamine involved.
If Mix follows Department of Correction rules, she could become eligible for parole after serving 25 percent of her sentence, which is approximately 45 months.
Prosecuting Attorney Frank Spain also noted that help is available for individuals struggling with addiction. The SAMHSA National Helpline provides free and confidential treatment referrals 24 hours a day at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Local residents can also seek assistance through primary care providers, behavioral health clinics or community recovery groups.
