Dominica Man Faces Cocaine Distribution Charges in St. Thomas, VI

Kenneth James, 51, of Dominica appeared in federal court after being charged with conspiracy and intent to distribute 12 kg of cocaine. Hearings are set for August 17, 2017.

Dominica national charged over 12 kg cocaine deal in St. Thomas

Kenneth James, 51, a national of Dominica, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon in St. Thomas on charges of conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, viconsortium.com reports. Acting U.S. Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett made the announcement following James's initial court appearance.

According to the criminal complaint, on August 15, 2017, James allegedly attempted to sell approximately 12 kilograms of a white powdery substance to an individual; the substance subsequently tested positive for cocaine.

James was ordered detained pending preliminary and detention hearings scheduled for August 17, 2017.

The charges carry a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison, with a maximum of life imprisonment, and a potential fine of up to $10,000,000.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is leading the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte is prosecuting the case.

Hewlett noted that a criminal complaint is a formal charging document and does not constitute evidence of guilt. James is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Source: Google News DM — Crime