STATE REP. INDICTED ON DRUG CHARGES

DETROIT (AP) -- A state representative has been charged with money
laundering and conspiracy to sell cocaine, marijuana and heroin, according
to a federal indictment unsealed Monday.

Rep. Keith Stallworth, a Detroit Democrat, said he is confident he will be
cleared of the charges.

The indictment charges 14 people with crimes including conspiracy to
possess controlled substances with intent to distribute, conspiracy to
launder monetary instruments, and murder. Stallworth is not charged in the
murder count.

The indictment alleges he used cashier's checks and his ownership of a
Detroit night club to launder money given to him by drug dealers.

"I think I've served the people of Michigan," Stallworth said after
appearing in court Monday afternoon. "My constituents know the work I've done."

Stallworth, 45, was released on $50,000 bond.

"This stuff is not true. It didn't happen," said Dennis Mitchenor,
Stallworth's longtime attorney. "Keith Stallworth has no tolerance for drugs."

Mitchenor said he would not represent Stallworth in the case because he may
be called as a witness.

U.S. Attorney Alan Gershel said Stallworth surrendered when he learned of
the indictment. The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison.

Stallworth is serving his third term in the state House, succeeding his
mother, former Rep. Alma Stallworth. He is not eligible for re-election in
2002 because of term limits.