9 arrested in Alabama crack cocaine drug bust

MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Officials in the U.S. Attorney's office say nine people from Montgomery and Elmore counties have been arrested in a drug bust for their involvement in a crack cocaine distribution ring.

Authorities Thursday said five people were already in custody for their involvement in the drug trafficking ring when the other nine were arrested Thursday. A 57-count indictment charges them with intent to distribute over 280 grams of crack cocaine.

Authorities say eight of the suspects have also been charged with distributing powder cocaine, two have been charged with illegal possession of firearms, and a number of the defendants are charged with using cellular phones to facilitate drug trafficking.

Officials say if convicted, the suspects each face up to 10 years in prison.

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