CASSOPOLIS — Two Cass County women, convicted of methamphetamine possession, have been given “golden opportunities” to turn their lives around, according to Prosecutor Victor Fitz.

Ashley Freestone, 27 of Edwardsburg, was sentenced to two years of probation Friday in Cass County Circuit Court. Amy Vanarman, 28 of Dowagiac, convicted of a separate meth-related offense, was sentenced to 18 months probation.

Fitz said both the women were fortunate to not get additional charges that would have demanded incarceration.

Both women were involved with the jail meth diversion program.

For her part, Freestone expressed remorse.

“I’m sorry to the community. It’s a horrible habit. I hope to better myself,” she said.

Judge Michael Dodge told Freestone it was a “good opportunity” and “good wakeup call.”

“It’s a hard habit to break,” Dodge said, “but you’re off to a good start.”

Vanarman declined to speak in court.

Her defense attorney Dale Blunier said the situation was “very embarrassing” to Vanarman, who has two daughters.

“Next time you are tempted to use, think of your daughters,” Dodge said.