DRUG PROFITS USED TO FINANCE MOVIE

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) -- A drug smuggler who helped bankroll a movie
with his profits has pleaded guilty to 10 charges.

Robert Hayes, 31, admitted Monday that he led a ring that bought
cocaine and marijuana in Texas and Miami to sell in Louisville.

Hayes helped finance a movie, ``Winner Takes All,'' with money he made
selling drugs, federal prosecutor Alexander Taft said.

The movie, filmed in Louisville, stars Hayes and tells the story of
two brothers who grow up in the inner city -- one to become a Drug
Enforcement Administration agent, the other a member of a crime syndicate.

It has been showing on the Black Entertainment Television cable
network this month.

BET spokesman Michael Lewellen said the network was unaware of Hayes'
background or the source of his financing.

Hayes pleaded guilty to charges that included operating a criminal
enterprise, conspiring to distribute cocaine and marijuana and money
laundering. The most serious charge carries at least 30 years in prison.

Four other defendants, including Hayes' wife and brother, also reached
plea agreements Monday.