A Grand Junction man was found guilty of drug charges by a jury in Boone County District Court.

According to the Boone County Attorney’s office, a jury found 21-year-old Clay Thomas Paulson guilty of a Class C Felony for possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, a Class D Felony for failure to affix tax stamp and a serious misdemeanor for possession of prescription drugs without a prescription.

Trial information shows Boone Police Officers noticed a stolen vehicle and initiated a traffic stop this past May. The driver of the vehicle fled, while two passengers stayed. One of the passengers was Paulson who had a backpack on the floor of the front passenger side. Inside, officers found 176 prescription pills, including controlled substances and amphetamine pills. Sealed clear baggies were also found and were consistent with packaging and delivery of controlled substances. Officers then interviewed a female later that day, who said she was previously in the vehicle with three males, including Paulson. She indicated that Paulson had a “star backpack” on him.

The two officers testified that their training and experience led them to charge Paulson with “intent to deliver.” Evidence also showed Paulson had corresponded with the driver of the vehicle tending to show Paulson had delivered drugs to him in the past.

Paulson could face a maximum sentence of 16 years in prison. His sentencing date is scheduled for December 28th at the Boone County Courthouse.