ATHENS, Pa. — An Athens man has been sentenced to a lengthy term in state prison following multiple convictions tied to arrests by several law enforcement agencies, according to the Bradford County District Attorney’s Office.
Eric Joseph Derrig, 43, was sentenced to a minimum of three years and a maximum of 15 years in state prison. Prosecutors said the sentence covers multiple offenses, including driving under the influence of methamphetamine and marijuana, fleeing to avoid apprehension, possession of a controlled substance, and possession with intent to deliver between 2.5 and 10 grams of methamphetamine, a felony offense.
The convictions stem from several arrests involving the Towanda Borough Police Department, Athens Borough Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police.
According to the district attorney’s office, Derrig has a lengthy and complex criminal history dating back to 2000, including prior theft, trespass, and drug-related offenses. Prosecutors cited that history as a significant factor in seeking the maximum sentence.
As part of the ruling, Derrig will remain under state supervision—either incarcerated or on parole—until 2040. Officials noted that any violation of supervision terms or new criminal offenses during that period could result in Derrig being returned to prison.
“Derrig is an example of a person who has been a problem for the county’s criminal justice system for years and years and now needs to remain incarcerated in a state prison for any new offenses,” said Bradford County District Attorney Richard Wilson.
