The defense attorney for Cornell Jones III and the local president of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People said Jones' drug sentence was imposed due to the color of his skin.

Cornell Jones III is serving time on major drug charges. Steubenville police said they arrested Jones with more than 2 kilos of cocaine and a jury convicted Jones in June.

Both sides were set to battle this issue Monday morning but the defense attorney was a no-show in the courtroom.

Jones’ attorney said the 16-year sentence is too strict, claiming the court and the prosecutor are prejudiced.

“We came here today fully prepared to argue to that. Mr. Jones’ lawyer did not show up. We subpoenaed the president of the NAACP, Royal Mayo, who accused the court of being prejudicial, and he did not show up,” said Jefferson County Assistant Prosecutor Jane Hanlin.

Although the defense didn’t show, court documents outline their argument. Jones’ attorney said police arrested three men in connection with the cocaine but the two other defendants, both white, received lighter sentences.

“It’s disturbing because in Mr. Jones’ case a jury of 12 people said he was guilty,” said Hanlin.

The defense argues the verdict wasn’t fair stating that “Not only was the jury comprised of an all white panel, this has historically been an issue in Jefferson County."

“I think if someone is going to make allegations like that they should show up to defend them,” said

This case has been rescheduled for Friday at 11 a.m. and both sides will have the chance to battle the prejudice claims.

NEWS9 has called NAACP President Royal Mayo for comment on today's hearing and his absence but have not heard back from him yet.

Stay with NEWS9 and WTOV9.com for continuing coverage.

For more local news, click here.