The man who drove the semi-truck containing what would become the largest drug seizure case in county history was sentenced Monday morning in court.

Erick Marquez, 29, appeared in Muskingum County Court of Common Pleas on one remaining charge of fabrication of a vehicle with a hidden compartment, a felony of the second degree.

Marquez’s attorney, Chase Mallory, said the defendant had no prior criminal history and had fallen on hard times while supporting his wife and children.

According to Mallory, Jose Gonzalez, one of Marquez’s co-defendants knew about his financial struggles and offered him a solution.

“At most he helped transport drugs twice,” said Mallory as he explained that this was his client’s first time transporting the hidden drugs by himself.

Judge Mark Fleegle made little comment besides noting Marquez’s presentencing investigation showed a lack of any criminal history.

Marquez was then sentenced to 2 years in prison and ordered to forfeit any items to the State of Ohio.

He will serve 3 years of post-release control once released.

As previously agreed upon between the defense and prosecutors, following good behavior in prison, Marquez can file for judicial release at six months into his sentence.