Madison man sentenced to 20 years in prison

(MADISON, Ind.) – A Madison man convicted of meth and gun charges is going back to prison.

26-year-old Paxton Smith had been released from prison in 2025 and was serving a suspended sentence when he was arrested again in January. 

Following the recent arrest, police say they intercepted jail communications where Smith allegedly admitted to having several guns. 

“During one of those calls, Smith stated he intended to engage in a shootout if law enforcement came to the residence,” Jefferson County Prosecutor Dave Sutter said. 

Smith was convicted last month on Dealing in Methamphetamine, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and a probation violation. 

A Jefferson County judge has now sentenced him to 20 years in prison. 

“Smith had been given opportunities through community supervision following his 2019 convictions. Despite having suspended time that could be revoked, he continued to engage in serious criminal activity” Sutter said. 

Investigators say Smith had 60 grams of methamphetamine which contributed to the 20-year sentence. 

“We are thankful that a significant quantity of methamphetamine intended to be trafficked through our community is off the streets and that the illegal firearms are out of the hands of a serious violent felon”, said Prosecutor Sutter.