LEE COUNTY (AP) -- A federal grand jury has indicted a former South Carolina sheriff on drug charges.
U.S. Attorney Bill Nettles said the indictment against former Lee County Sheriff E.J. Melvin was unsealed on Monday after five additional defendants in the case were arrested.
Melvin is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of powder cocaine and 50 grams or more of crack cocaine. If convicted, he could get 10 years to life in prison.
Investigators say Melvin sold drugs from his sheriff's vehicle and tried to protect drug dealers from state and federal investigators.
Melvin's attorney refused to comment. His family has said he is innocent.
Twelve others are charged in the case.
Related Stories:
SC county public works director faces drug charges - Friday, May 21, 2010
Another public official has been arrested in the same South Carolina county whose former sheriff is facing federal drug charges.
Judge sets bond for ex-sheriff on drug charges - Wednesday, May 05, 2010
Ex-SC sheriff faces hearing on drug charges - Wednesday, May 05, 2010
A former South Carolina sheriff charged with drug distribution is to appear in federal court in Columbia for a detention hearing.
Sheriff arrested on drug charges, denied bond - Monday, May 03, 2010
Former Lee County Sheriff charged with drug distribution was denied bond in federal court Monday morning.
(Copyright ©2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWACH