HERRIN — A Herrin man has been charged in a one-count superseding indictment with conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

According to a federal indictment, 47-year-old Raymond E. Wells allegedly committed the offense between February 2018 and January of this year in Williamson and Jefferson counties.

Wells made his initial appearance in federal court Friday and pleaded not guilty to the charges. He is currently being held without bond pending a March 26 detention hearing.

The drug offenses carry a maximum penalty of 5 to 40 years in prison, four years of supervised release and a $5 million fine.

The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Southern Illinois Enforcement Group. The Herrin Police Department, Marion Police Department and Johnston City Police Department also assisted in the investigation.