Attorney: Reggae star denies charges that he tried buying cocaine from undercover cop in Fla.

Banton’s attorney: Reggae star denies drug charges

MIAMI — Reggae star Buju Banton’s attorney says his client “vigorously denies” charges that he tried to buy a large amount of cocaine from an undercover police officer.

In an e-mail to The Associated Press on Tuesday, Herbert E. Walker III said he looks forward to representing Banton in court, but he would not discuss the case further.

A U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration affidavit says Banton and two others traveled to Sarasota last week to make the purchase.

Walker said Banton “vigorously denies these allegations.” The Jamaican reggae singer is in federal custody in Miami.

Banton, whose real name is Mark Anthony Myrie, faces a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine. He faces up to 20 years in prison.