A convicted drug dealer from El Campo, Lawrence Herald Jr., has been sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of delivering a controlled substance. The 77-year-old was not present in court to hear the verdict, and the jury was informed that he had not appeared. There’s no requirement for the defendant to be present at their trial. Police officers went to his home, but he was not there. The District Attorney is pleased with the verdict but mentioned that Herald would be eligible for parole if found. Currently, he is considered a fugitive as a warrant has been issued for his failure to appear.