Job prospect keeps meth user out of jail

A Carson City man was allowed to remain on probation after he tried to hide the fact he'd used methamphetamine.

Joshua Rogers, 32, was sentenced to four years in prison in October 2004 after he was convicted of stealing merchandise from a north county department store. He was released on five years probation on the condition he complete Western Regional Drug Court.

Rogers' attorney, Tod Young, said his client successfully completed drug court, but once he was done, forgot he was an addict.

Rogers told District Judge Michael Gibbons that he used methamphetamine twice and tried to eat baking soda to prevent a positive test.

Gibbons agreed to reinstate Rogers probation on the condition he continue counseling and attend a 12-step program.