DRUG BUST IS LIKELY KNOXVILLE RECORD

KNOXVILLE (AP) - Thirteen people were indicted in connection with a drug
ring that authorities believe is the largest in the city's history.

U.S. Atty. Harry Mattice said the drug enterprise generated more than $11
million over several years and was supplied by two Miami men.

The indictments, announced Friday, accuse the suspects of drug trafficking,
money laundering and hiding their profits through the purchase of houses,
condominiums, land, jewelry, boats and dozens of expensive vehicles.

Authorities said Alexis Munoz and his brother-in-law Javier Martinez, both
of Miami, supplied cocaine to the Knoxville ring, led by brothers Ronnie
Rodgers, Anthony Rodgers, Michael Rodgers and Kenneth Rodgers, all of
Knoxville. Also named in the indictments are Knoxville residents Edward
Sawyer, Jarius Bryant, Ricky Washington, William Gregory Jr., George Glenn,
Ahneaka Foster Rodgers and Linda Sawyer.

Martinez and Munoz supplied the Knoxville ring with dozens of kilograms of
cocaine and more than 50 grams of crack cocaine during a five-year period
beginning in 1997, authorities said.

The two men are accused of using at least $6.5 million in drug money to buy
high-rise condominiums in Miami and houses on Marco Island, Fla., and other
property, including a yacht and luxury cars.

Authorities said Knoxville ring members used at least $5 million in drug
money to buy houses throughout Knox County, as well as luxury cars,
including a 1939 Ford.

Federal and state authorities, including Knoxville police and the FBI,
conducted a two-year investigation.

Authorities said undercover officers conducted a number of transactions in
2001 and 2002 with the 11 ring members living in Knoxville. The indictments
show investigators also documented phone conversations setting up those
transactions.