DETROIT (AP) -- A former state lawmaker from Detroit is among 12 people charged in a major drug investigation in southeastern Michigan.
Federal prosecutors say the ring is linked to more than 60 pounds of heroin, 24 pounds of cocaine and a half-ton of marijuana. Carlos Powell of Macomb County is described as a leader. His lawyer declined comment Wednesday.
The ex-legislator is Ken Daniels, who served in the Michigan House until 2004. He's accused of structuring two bank transactions to evade certain reporting requirements.
Daniels' lawyer Tom Jakuc (JAY'-kij) tells The Detroit News the allegations can be "readily explained."
The indictment says the Powell organization used semi-trucks and vehicles with secret traps to transport drugs and money across the country. More than $20 million in cash has been seized.