Cortland DA Announces Conviction of Man Who Caused $1,500 in Damage to Corrections Van

District Attorney Patrick Perfetti has announced the conviction of 52 year old Drahcir S. Parson following a 3 day trial in Cortland County Court from an arrest back in August 2024. Parson was found guilty of Criminal Mischief in the 3rd, a Felony.

“I’m gratified that the jury was able to see this case for what it was – as a community we cannot tolerate inmates damaging property of the Sheriff’s Office Corrections Division without accountability;” said D.A. Perfetti. “There has to be good order and discipline in the County Jail; this Office will stand ready to prosecute offenders who damage Corrections Division property while in custody.”

Back in August 2024, Perfetti says Parson was being transported to the Auburn Correctional Facility when he unfastened his seatbelt inside a corrections transportation van. Parson then used the metal buckle to damage the inner containment area of the van causing $1,500 in damage.

Parson has until February 23 for post-conviction motions. His sentencing is set for March 16. Perfetti says Parson must be sentenced to a state prison for his conviction as a second felony offender and faces 2 to 4 years in prison. Perfetti added he will seek a consecutive sentencing to his conviction back in October 2024 for assault on a Correctional Officer within the Cortland County Jail.

“The Correctional Officers, Jail Administrator, and Sheriff have expressed their appreciation for the efforts of the D.A.’s Office in securing this conviction,” said Associate Assistant District Attorney (AADA) Mr. Harman Gill, who assisted in this case.