© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Key insider in Gov. Whitmer kidnap plot gets sentence break

A wooden gavel leaned on a wooden sounding block in focus, a courtroom is the background
Pixabay

A judge has slashed nearly four years off the prison sentence of a star witness in the plot to kidnap Michigan’s governor, assuring Ty Garbin will be free in 2023.

Garbin’s sentence of 6 1/4 years was reduced to 2 1/2 years, a reward even greater than prosecutors had sought.

Federal Judge Robert Jonker cited Garbin’s “substantial assistance” to the government and his own assessment of the 26-year-old airplane mechanic.

Garbin cooperated soon after his arrest, pleaded guilty and testified at two trials.

Adam Fox and Barry Croft Jr. were convicted of conspiracy. Two other men were acquitted last spring.

A sixth man, Kaleb Franks, pleaded guilty but hasn't been sentenced yet.

Journalism at this station is made possible by donors who value local reporting. Donate today to keep stories like this one coming. It is thanks to your generosity that we can keep this content free and accessible for everyone. Thanks!