Last Wednesday, Lornell Von Moore, 45, of Louin, and Jimmie Lashawn Bender, 30, of Bay Springs were two of eleven men and women arrested and charged with what federal agents are calling one of the state’s largest marijuana distribution rings.

The men, along with alleged ring-leader Jessie Jerome Hall, 36, of Newton, are being charged with conspiring to distribute more than 100 kilograms - 220 pounds - of marijuana. If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and a $2 million fine, according to the Clarion Ledger.

Lee and the other eight suspects are being charged with drug trafficking after more than $1 million in marijuana, cash and assets were seized. The agents reported that 18-wheelers were used to move the marijuana. Reports claim that Moore owns a trucking company in North Jasper County and two 18-wheel tractor trailer rigs were seized along with money and marijuana.

The indictment says the suspects transported the drugs on May 24-25 from Scott County to Texas. The men are scheduled to face a November 2 trial date. Last Thursday, bond was denied for all suspects. U.S. Magistrate Judge Linda Anderson cited that the suspects were possible flight risks.