VAN WERT — An 18-year-old Mendon defendant was sentenced on Wednesday to two years in prison for second-degree felony burglary and fourth-degree felony attempted grand theft. Dallas Fortner will also have to pay $4,900 in restitution and court costs.

Although Fortner’s attorney stressed that these charges were the first felony convictions for his client, Van Wert County Common Pleas Court Judge Charles D. Steele noted that Fortner has “an extensive juvenile record.” Steele listed several convictions from Fortner’s juvenile record, including a robbery charge from Mercer County as well as drug charges and multiple probation violations.

“I am sorry for what I did,” Fortner said in court. “If you give me another chance I’ll prove to you and the courtroom that I can make better choices and have better friends.”

Fortner was given a two-year sentence on the burglary charge and 12 months for attempted grand theft with the sentences to be served concurrently. Credit was given for 92 days already served in custody.