Pubdate: Thu, 18 Nov 1999
Source: Inquirer (PA)
Copyright: 1999 Philadelphia Newspapers Inc.
Contact:  http://www.phillynews.com/
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Author: Associated Press 

WIFE OF EX-U.S. OFFICIAL IN COLOMBIA IS INDICTED

NEW YORK - A federal grand jury has indicted the wife of the former
commander of the U.S. antidrug operation in Colombia on
drug-trafficking charges.

A 13-count indictment filed yesterday in Brooklyn federal court
accuses Laurie Ann Hiett, wife of Col. James Hiett, of conspiring with
two others to possess and distribute drugs between April and June.

Her arraignment was set for Dec. 2. If convicted, she could face more
than 10 years in prison.

"I think it's tragic this case has come to this, but the indictment is
no great surprise," said Laurie Hiett's attorney, Paul Lazarus.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee Dunst declined comment.

Laurie Hiett, 36, surrendered to federal authorities in August after
they intercepted two packages - each with 2.4 pounds of heroin - that
she allegedly shipped to the United States from the U.S. Embassy in
Bogota. She is accused of making four other similar shipments.

The defendant, who is free on bail, has contended through her attorney
that she was unaware that drugs were in the parcels. Court papers show
she has agreed to give up her right to a speedy prosecution to pursue
a possible plea bargain.

An investigation by the Army Criminal Investigation Division in Panama
cleared Col. Hiett, saying he had "no prior knowledge" of the alleged
crimes.

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