Federal authorities have confirmed that Grammy-nominated Jamaican reggae star Buju Banton, was arrested last Thursday, for attempting to purchase cocaine from an undercover officer in Sarasota, Florida.
Banton, whose real name is Mark Anthony Myrie, is being held in Miami and faces charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine.
Several days before his arrest, Banton and two others had contacted a police informant about purchasing cocaine. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the purchase was arranged by Banton and along with the other two men, they met the undercover officer in Sarasota to conclude the deal.
The two men were arrested on Thursday, December 10th, when they attempted to buy the cocaine from the undercover officer. Banton was subsequently taken into custody. He is expected to be transferred to Tampa, where the case is being prosecuted.
