NORWICH – A drug dealer responsible for killing a man in self defense pleaded guilty in court Monday.

Robert R. Reynolds, of 476 Pleasant Valley Road, Sherburne, pleaded guilty to second degree criminal possession of marijuana (D felony) for having between three and four pounds of the drug at his home when he was arrested.

Reynolds is facing one to two and a half years in state prison. In exchange for this plea, Reynolds had to surrender his bank accounts and some property totaling nearly $30,000. The money will go to the county to be used by local law enforcement agencies in drug prevention programs.

Reynolds has also agreed to testify to the events that took place on the night in question and against any other parties present.

Reynolds shot and killed Joshua D. Richheimer, 32, on July 24 in self defense as he attempted to break into his Sherburne home, and then with the help of his neighbor, Nicholas S. Simonds, 21, allegedly buried the body a few hundred yards from his house.

“Mr. Reynolds is still facing two and a half years in prison for his illegal drug business. This is the best example of why we want to keep pressure on people selling marijuana. People think it’s a harmless drug, but it does end in violence just like any other illegal activity involving addiction and money,” said District Attorney Joseph McBride.