CASSOPOLIS — Cass County Prosecutor Victor Fitz rarely doles out compliments to criminals facing sentencing.

But on Friday in Cass County Circuit Court, Fitz said Terrell Blackamore, who was facing sentencing on a laundry list of drug convictions, is an “intelligent” man with many talents.

“But he insists on being involved in the drug community,” Fitz said. “It’s a shame.”

Fitz said Blackamore could be an asset to the community but instead has committed “betrayal of the people of Cass County.”

Blackamore, a Dowagiac resident, was sentenced to six to 40 years in prison on convictions of delivery of cocaine, conspiracy to deliver marijuana, possession with intent to deliver marijuana and maintaining a drug house. He will receive credit for 50 days already served.

“I take full responsibility for my actions,” said Blackamore, 42. “I just want to get this over with and get on with my life in a positive manner.”

On Nov. 18, Cass County detectives executed a search warrant at Blackamore’s home where they found 16 bags of crack cocaine and 13 bags of powdered cocaine. They also discovered 250 grams of marijuana.

Blackamore admitted to possessing the drugs with the intent to sell them.

“It’s sad to see you here again,” Dodge told Blackamore. “You’re an intelligent man with a lot of ability.”