‘Multi-convicted felon’ sentenced to Utah prison on drug, weapons charges

ST. GEORGE, Utah ( ABC4 ) — A Sterling, Colorado, man previously convicted of multiple felonies has been sentenced to prison in Utah on drug and weapons charges, according to a press release from the district attorney's office.

Markeith Candler, 42, pleaded guilty on June 10, 2024, to felon in possession of a firearm and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, as well as five years of supervised release.

On Jan. 12, 2024, a Utah Highway Patrol trooper conducted a traffic stop for speeding. Candler was identified as the rear passenger in the vehicle.

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During a vehicle check, a police K9 showed signs of the presence of narcotics. Troopers conducted a search and found a Glock 22 — later confirmed to belong to Candler.

"The firearm possessed a switch, that allowed for the gun to be used as an automatic weapon and was loaded with a magazine and a round in the chamber. Additional magazines, including large capacity magazines, were found next to the firearm," the press release states.

Troopers reportedly also found 743 grams of cocaine and one pound of marijuana.

Officials said Candler has been committing violent and weapons-related offenses, serving sentences for those crimes, for over 20 years.

In one example, while on probation for a prior robbery, Candler reportedly committed an armed robbery at a credit union where an employee was held at gunpoint. He served 10 years in prison and five years of supervised release for the crime.

This case was investigated jointly by the Department of Public Safety Utah Highway Patrol and the State Bureau of Investigation.