Grammy-Nominated Singer Held for Drug Charges

Last month, Grammy-nominated reggae singer Buju Banton was arrested on drug charges in Florida.  Now, the Jamaican national is currently being held without bail while his lawyers fight to remove a detainer that has been placed by immigration officials.

Banton, whose album has been nominated for Best Reggae Album, pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to buy cocaine from an undercover law enforcement officer.

Banton's defense attorney, David Oscar Markus, said as soon as the detainer is lifted he plans to seek bail. Markus also maintains that his client is innocent, and that he will fight the charges.  He does not plan to accept any plea deals offered by the prosecution.

The Drug Enforcement Administration claims that Banton contacted a confidential informant about possibly purchasing some cocaine. The next day, Banton and one other man met the informant at a restaurant in Sarasota, where the DEA and local police had set up surveillance.

According to an affidavit, the group eventually left the restaurant and went to a warehouse to make the deal. Authorities had the warehouse outfitted with audio and video recording devices.

Banton's criminal trial has tentatively been scheduled for March.

Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, is in the United States on an entertainer visa.

If you or a loved one has been charged with drug conspiracy or a related offense, click here to find a criminal defense lawyer near you!