RADFORD, Va. (AP) — A freshman business major will now spend his next four years in prison for running what authorities called a “mini drug syndicate” at Radford University.

Selling cocaine, ecstasy and marijuana paid for the off-campus apartment of 18-year-old Gabriel Eduardo Yus-Baez, where he kept $25,000 and a 9mm gun.

The Richmond Times-Dispatch says a judge gave him a 35-year sentence, but reduced it to less than four years with time served, as long as the young man stays out of trouble. Yus-Baez also must pay a $4,000 fine, among other penalties.

The Times-Dispatch quotes Yus-Baez as saying he was ensnared by fast money. His lawyer Jimmy Turk says he was simply young and stupid.

But prosecutor Chris Rehak says Yus-Baez is a major player in a drug organization.

(Copyright (c) 2025 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Join our Newsletter for the latest news right to your inbox