Thirty-four-year-old given chance for turnaround

A 34-year-old O’Neill resident has been given the opportunity to have his case transferred to drug court.

Phillip M. Burival pleaded guilty to an amended count, delivery/dispense/distribute/manufacture/possess extremely hazardous drug, at least 10 grams but less than 28 grams, a Class 2 felony. The charge was reduced from a Class 1C felony, possession 28-139 grams methamphetamine. He also withdrew his not guilty pleas and pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm during commission of a felony, a Class 2 felony, and possession of destructive device, a Class 4 felony, along with two infractions, possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, all committed Oct. 12, 2021, in O’Neill.

He appeared before the Honorable Mark Kozisek in the Holt County district courtroom in O’Neill on Feb. 28.

Pursuant to a plea agreement reached with Holt County attorney Brent Kelly, Burival entered the pleas and Kelly recommended the case be transferred to North Central Problem Solving Court.

Burival signed a contract with the problem-solving court, agreeing to many rules and regulations, including payment of a $30 enrollment fee and monthly fees of $100 for the duration of the case, with his first NCPSC appearance scheduled March 7.

Sentencing was deferred, pending outcome of Burival’s participation in drug court. Bond, in the amount of $75,000, 10%