NATCHEZ — Natchez businessman, Wilmer Howell “Dub” Rogers, received a 10-year sentence and a fine of $50,000 Thursday morning for possession of more than 20 pounds of marijuana, with a possible reduction of his sentence after further review of his case in December.

On Aug. 13 Rogers, 61, pleaded guilty in Sixth District Circuit Court to possession of a schedule I controlled substance marijuana, more than 1 kg and less than 5 kg and could have been sentenced to up to 24 years in prison.

In April 2017, investigators seized 21 pounds of marijuana, 30 weapons and $3,550 in cash where they arrested Rogers at his residence on 58 Stirling Road. Investigators later seized another 1/2 pound of marijuana after a search of one of his businesses on 13 Ridgeway Road.

Rogers once owned several business properties in Natchez, including Smoot’s Grocery and Steampunk Coffee Roasters.

Circuit Judge Forrest “Al” Johnson said he’d received more than 100 letters on Rogers’ behalf, and read every word of them prior to sentencing him.

“I’ve decided on a sentence that will keep you out of the state penitentiary and still punish you with something you won’t soon forget, and others so inclined will take notice of,” Johnson said. “I sentence you to 10 years. However, I will keep you in the Adams County Jail for up to one full year, and I will review your case in December before I leave office.”

Rogers received a fine of $50,000 and all court costs, $25,000 of which should be paid within 10 days. Johnson said $10,000 of the fine should be designated for Adams County Sheriff’s Department for drug enforcement due to the extent of the investigation and resources expended in Rogers’ case.

“When I review your case in December, I want firm arrangements made for the remaining balance of that fine,” Johnson said. “If I am satisfied at that time with the financial arrangements that have been made, then I will consider suspending the balance and placing you under post-release supervision.”