Reggae artist Buju Banton has pleaded not guilty to drug charges stemming from a December 2009 arrest in Florida.
Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, was arraigned Thursday (January 7) on a charge of conspiring to buy more than five kilograms of cocaine from an undercover law enforcement officer in Sarasota in December.
According to reports, during the court appearance the Jamaican singer did not request bail, but confirmed to Judge William Turnoff that he was waiving his bail hearing in Miami to be transferred to Tampa. If he had elected to post bond, he would be held by immigration officials until his trial date.
Banton's lawyer took the time to speak with the media after the hearing and insisted that his client is innocent, and is not interested in seeking a plea deal.
"He believes that because the indictment was filed out of Tampa, that's where the case should be defended," said his attorney, Herbert E. Walker III. "He's a very spiritual person. He has a lot of faith in God. He's confident he's going to be exonerated."
If convicted Banton could be sentenced to over 20 years in prison. He is currently being held in federal custody in Tampa, Florida.
Celebrated reggae star Buju Banton is being detained in a federal Miami prison following his arrest last Thursday (December 10) on drug charges.
Banton, real name Mark Anthony Myrie, was booked with another unidentified man after a surveillance camera caught them in the process of a drug transaction.
Authorities claim to have found the singer with 5 kilos of cocaine, and charged him with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute.
Banton was in the midst of completing a milestone 2009. The veteran deejay had received a Grammy nomination for his ninth studio album Rasta Got Soul, and finished a successful North American tour.
During the tour, Banton also attempted reconciliation with the gay community. The singer had been at odds with the group since his popular 1992 “Boom Bye Bye,” which endorsed violence against gay men.
After receiving years of protest, Banton finally conducted a sit-down with the gay community this past October. According to reports, the meeting remained civil and productive despite Banton’s refusal to renounce his past views.
If convicted of the pending drug charges, Buju Banton faces up to 20 years in prison.
At press time, the Miami authorities are expected to release further case details on Monday (December 14).
