Walkerville man pleads guilty to break-ins.

Gager

Walkerville man pleads guilty to break-ins.

By Allison Scarbrough, Editor.

HART — A 39-year-old Walkerville man pleaded guilty in 27th Circuit Court Monday, Nov. 1, to two break-ins in Oceana County.

Keith Elmer Gager, Jr., of 5525 E. Deer Rd., faces up to one year in jail after pleading guilty to two counts of breaking and entering with intent. In exchange for his plea, one count of fourth-offense habitual offender will be dismissed.

Sentencing guidelines in the case are five to 23 months, said Oceana County Prosecutor Joseph Bizon. Probation will also likely be ordered.

Gager’s habitual offender status would have elevated his maximum possible term to life in prison, said Judge Robert D. Springstead.

Gager testified that he stole tools when he broke into a barn on 192nd in Colfax Township Sept. 19, 2020.

“I was on drugs,” he told Judge Springstead.

While that case was pending, he broke into a shop — where he also stole tools — on 160th Avenue in Leavitt Township Aug. 3, 2021. Gager said he went to the second location to steal gas but didn’t get any.

Breaking and entering with intent is a 10-year felony.

Sentencing is set for Jan. 3 at 10:40 a.m.

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