Ohio drug agent charged with framing people alternately called a liar, honest
By APThursday, January 7, 2010
Ohio drug agent alternately called a liar, honest
CLEVELAND — While the prosecution describes a federal drug agent charged with framing 17 people in a cocaine sting as a liar trying to polish his conviction record, the defense says Lee Lucas is an honest and tough crime-fighting legend.
A U.S. District Court jury in Cleveland heard both sides in opening statements Thursday in Lucas’ trial.
The 19-year veteran of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, who fought drug traffickers in Miami and Bolivia, faces charges including obstruction of justice, making a false statement, perjury and violating civil rights. His co-defendant and former informant is expected to testify against him. Lucas is on administrative leave from the DEA.
The trial could take weeks.
