But on Feb. 14, 12 jurors were selected for Banton’s trial on drug charges and his lawyers made opening statements in a courtroom in Tampa, Fla.
In 2009, Banton was caught on tape attempting to buy five kilos of cocaine that had a street value of $150,000. He went on trial during the summer of 2010, but the judge declared a mistrial after the jurors could not reach a verdict.
Banton’s lawyers are focusing on an informant named Alexander Johnson, who reportedly received $50,000 for cooperating with police. They are hoping to paint Johnson as a man who set Banton up for financial gain. If Banton is convicted, he could serve the rest of his life in prison. –amir shaw
