A southeast Iowa convict with 20 past criminal convictions gets probation in a drug case.

Robert Large, 56, of Ottumwa, was charged as a habitual offender with possession of methamphetamine - third offense and possession of marijuana - third offense.

During a trial on October 25, 2021, a Wapello County jury found Large guilty after deliberating less than half-an-hour.

Wapello County Attorney Reuben Neff said the state usually doesn't seek prison sentences for simple possession charges, but due to Large's extensive violent criminal history, Neff argued this week for time behind bars.

Neff said Judge Kirk Daily granted the defendant's request for probation and a suspended sentence.

Daily placed Large on five years of probation and gave the defendant a suspended 30-year prison sentence, with a condition that large complete a stay at the Ottumwa Halfway House.

Large’s past convictions include lascivious acts with a child, domestic abuse assault with injury, assault on law enforcement and escape from custody.