SESSER — Former Sesser Mayor and State Senator Ned Mitchell made his first court appearance on drug-related charges Tuesday in Franklin County.

The 70-year-old Mitchell and 42-year-old Elaina Kays were arrested at Mitchell’s home in Sesser on Jan. 15 after Sesser Police searched the home. Mitchell was charged with possession meth. Mitchell and Kays both bonded out of jail the next day.

Mitchell is charged with five felonies including multiple drug charges, armed violence and unlawful use of a building. He served as Sesser Mayor from 1980 to 2013. He was also a State Senator representing the 59th District for one year.

Mitchell’s next court date is set for March 29.