RAVENS Lewis pleads innocent in cocaine case

ATLANTA (AP) -- One of Jamal Lewis' lawyers believes the evidence prosecutors used to obtain an indictment may actually clear the Baltimore Ravens running back of federal drug charges.
Lewis was released Thursday on $500,000 bond after he pleaded innocent to charges that he tried to help a childhood friend buy cocaine in the summer of 2000.
After a brief hearing, defense attorney Ed Garland said that a recorded telephone conversation cited by federal prosecutors is open to interpretation. "They may have omitted things that should have been in there," Garland said. "We believe it will show he is innocent."
Lewis stood outside the federal courthouse in the rain and made a brief statement.
"I just want to say it's extremely important to me that my family, my friends, my fans and the Ravens organization know that I am innocent and I thank everyone for their continued support," Lewis said.
Conspiracy
The Atlanta native is accused of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms of cocaine, during which he allegedly used a cell phone in violation of federal law.
Lewis didn't speak during the 15-minute hearing, other than answering "yes" when asked by the judge and the U.S. attorney if he understood his rights and his plea.
U.S. Magistrate E. Clayton Scofield III said Lewis can travel nationwide while he awaits trial, but ordered him to have no contact with co-defendant Angelo Jackson or government witnesses.
If convicted of conspiracy, Lewis could face 10 years to life in prison.
Lewis, wearing a gray business suit, was escorted into the courtroom by U.S. marshals and flanked by four attorneys. He was not handcuffed.
Garland said a cocaine buy wasn't discussed during a restaurant conversation more than three years ago among Lewis, Jackson, and a woman who turned out to be a police informant. No drugs were ever purchased, according to the indictment.
"This informant is attempting to set up Jamal Lewis to get out of jail," Garland said. "It is odd that this is coming right after he had a very successful season. Sometimes celebrities get targeted because they are in the news."
A statement from the Ravens said Lewis should have a chance to tell his side of the story.
The NFL declined to comment.