RESERVE — A St. John the Baptist Parish man avoided extended jail time and is facing probation following a drug dealing conviction this month, authorities said.

John Ragas, 31, of Reserve pleaded guilty July 10 to two counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of possession of a controlled dangerous substance and one count of possession of heroin, according to St. John Parish District Attorney Bridget Dinvaut.

“It was a narcotics investigation, and a search warrant was issued and executed on his residence,” Dinvaut said.

“Mr. Ragas did not have any felony convictions, and as a result, was considered a first time offender under the law. Because of his willingness to plea and in consideration of his record, he was offered felony probation under each of those counts and will be monitored by the state for each of the next five years.”

Ragas’ five-year sentence with the Louisiana Department of Corrections was suspended, and he was ordered pay $1,865 in court fees and fines. Ragas received credit for time served following his March 8, 2016, arrest.