CASSOPOLIS — A Niles man who was a key witness in a major armed robbery case in Cass County several years ago has found himself in prison.

Harley Jackson, 31, was sentenced to four to 30 years in prison on methamphetamine-related convictions Friday in Cass County Circuit Court.

Fitz called Jackson a “pleasant man” and a “courageous witness” in the robbery case but said “methamphetamine can’t be tolerated.”

Defense attorney James Miller said not only was his client a stellar witness but he was also involved in helping to catch the thief.

When he spotted the robbery in progress, Jackson gave pursuit.

“He followed in his car all the way to South Bend,” Miller said. “He was shot at. He participated to the extent he put his life at risk.”

Miller also pointed to a “glowing” letter from Jackson’s ex-wife as a reason for Judge Michael Dodge to deviate from the minimum 51-month prison term sentencing guideline range.

Dodge slightly obliged by giving Jackson four to 30 years. The judge added that Jackson’s meth conviction in Berrien County several years ago that landed him in prison didn’t help matters in his sentencing.

Jackson, who also pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon, will receive credit for 102 days already served in the county jail.