posted May 20, 2008
Federal prosecutor Scott Winnie said Tuesday that 32-year-old Demarcus Akins was the main supplier in a Chattanooga cocaine ring.
He told Magistrate Susan Kerr Lee that Akins' top lieutenants included Marcus Lewis, 24; David Robinson, 49; and Michael Kelley, 44.
Magistrate Lee has been holding detention hearings for those caught in the federal probe that included wiretaps of several drug ring leaders.
Most of those requesting release were denied, but a few were recommended for release on $20,000 bond by federal Pretrial Services after an investigation of their criminal record and other matters.
A detention hearing for Akins is Thursday at 10 a.m.
Prosecutor Winnie said those caught discussing drug sales on tape would often use code words rather than specifically mention the drugs involved.
He said they sometimes referred to a "four-way." He said that is 4.5 ounces of crack cocaine, which Lewis sold for $3,200. He said they would refer to the $3,200 price as a "Shack" after the #32 jersey of pro basketball player Shaquille "Shack" O'Neal.
He said there is reference on the tapes to "two Vicks." He said that relates to the #7 jersey of pro football player Michael Vick.
Bond was denied for Bastiana Lem Jones after a probation officer said he has a lengthy criminal record, including felony weapon and drug charges.
Prosecutor Winnie said most of those charged face 10 years to life in prison, while those with prior felony drug convictions are looking at 20 years to life. Anyone with two prior drug felonies faces a minimum mandatory sentence of life.
Jones has fathered five children, it was stated, and he has lately been living with a girl friend.
Bond was also denied to Fredginald Bridgeman, who has fathered six children by four different women and now lives with a girl friend.
Bridgeman told the probation office he drinks a six-pack of beer a day, smokes three marijuana blunts and uses crack cocaine.
His attorney, John McDougal, acknowledged he has not been employed for the past several years.
Bridgeman's mother took the witness stand and she said she does worry about his drug use. Asked about the six-pack a day, she said, "No, I drink beer myself."
Attorney Chris Lanier tried to get probation for Terrence Lee. Attorney Lanier said his work record has been spotty, but he once worked at the Pilgrim's Pride chicken processing plant. Attorney Lanier said, "I hear they have some openings."
Attorney Lanier noted that Lee has no prior drug felonies.
Walter Fortson was denied bond as he is among those facing 20 years to life with a prior felony drug conviction.
Bond was allowed to Alphonso Few, who is a cousin to Akins. Prosecutor Winnie said Few was "quite close to Demarcus Akins, who is at the top of the ladder."
A part of the bond conditions was that Few have no contact with Akins, Lewis, Robinson or Kelly.
Prosecutor Winnie said the voluminous tape recordings should be ready for defense attorneys to review by early next week.
He said there are 59 "drug" calls involving Terrence Lee.
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