After a brief deliberation, a Covington County jury returned a guilty verdict Wednesday against Gilbert Shaw, 59, of Florala for possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The state evidence at trial showed that former Florala Police Officer Jim Strickland was dispatched to an 8th Avenue residence for a call about a domestic disturbance. On his arrival, he found Shaw intoxicated and arguing with his sister.

Strickland arrested Shaw for Public Intoxication and during a search of Shaw’s person incident to the arrest, found a prescription pill bottle which held cocaine residue. Shaw told Strickland the pill bottle contained “crack.” He was then arrested for possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Chief Assistant District Attorney Grace Jeter argued for the state at trial, and Andalusia attorney Rod Sylvester represented Shaw.

Shaw’s sentencing hearing is set for May 12, 2016.