Jackson, MS-A Hinds County man has answered in court for his failure to support his two children, announced Attorney General Jim Hood today.

Robert E. Matthews plead guilty and was sentenced today for Felony Non-Support of a Child before Copiah County Circuit Court Judge Lamar Pickard.  The Judge sentenced Matthews to ten years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections (five years each count to run consecutive), five years suspended post release supervision, meaning he will serve five years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections.

Matthews’ arrearage amount of $42,000 is to be totally paid at the end of his probation.

“If you don’t pay your child support obligation in Mississippi, we will make you,” said Attorney General Hood.  “We will not quit.  These children are too important.”

Child Desertion Unit Director, Special Assistant Attorney General Deshun T. Martin, prosecuted this case.