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LISBON -- A Columbiana man who stole from someone attempting to help him was sentenced to 10 months in prison on Friday in Columbiana County Common Pleas Court.
Corey Miller, 25, East Park Avenue, was sentenced for receiving stolen property, a fifth-degree felony, and misuse of credit cards, a first-degree misdemeanor.
In December 2016, Miller had a Discover credit card belonging to Vincent Strines which had been stolen and he used it in a series of transactions including at Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Shellabella's and Duke and Duchess, all businesses in Columbiana.
Strines, of Youngstown, appeared at Friday's sentencing hearing, where he talked about how he has tried to help Miller and others who have problems with substance abuse and give them the opportunities to make a better life. He has sponsored people who are looking to recover and going through the drug court system.
However, through the years people continue to steal from him and he believes he has lost thousands of dollars and valuable items such as a ring which belonged to his late father. Strines added that he knows families of those in recovery and the addicts steal from them.
Strines said someone needs to hold these people responsible for their actions and called Miller a "menace to society."
Before sentencing, Miller said he apologized for what he has done. He now has two children, one who was just born this past week, and he wants them to have a better life and do better than he has.
"I pray they are nothing like me," Miller said, adding he hopes he can become the type of father they need.
Miller described how he once overdosed and had to be brought back. He also talked about going through a 12-step program and even when he has worked a full-time job.
"I'm sorry Vince," Miller said. "You did not deserve to suffer. .. I know you saw the person I am when I am sober and I'm truly sorry you saw the person I am in active addiction."
While Judge C. Ashley Pike said Miller's children may be giving him the motivation to change, he still talked about the price that needs to be paid for his choices. Miller was sentenced to 10 months in prison and ordered to make restitution for the $182 he spent in Columbiana County.
Strines indicated there is more money that was stolen from him in Mahoning County and he may also pursue charges there.
djohnson@mojonews.com