A Carbondale man charged with distributing crack cocaine plead not guilty before a federal judge in Benton.

Bryant R. Larkin, 28, plead not guilty Monday to charges of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of crack cocaine.

Amanda Robertson, assistant U.S. Attorney, said charges of distribution and possession with intent to deliver crack cocaine carry a minimum penalty of five years imprisonment and a maximum of 40 years imprisonment. She said the charges also carry fines of up to $2 million.

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If convicted he cannot get probation, he must serve at least five years, Robertson said.

Larkin’s arrest was the result of a cooperative investigation conducted by the Carbondale Police Department, the Southern Illinois Enforcement Group, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Don Priddy, Carbondale Police community resource officer, said undercover agents bought crack cocaine from Larkin. Priddy said they searched Larkin’s house on North Barnes Street April 12, and that investigation led them to a hotel room.

During the search they seized crack cocaine and money they believed to be drug sale proceeds.

The amount of crack cocaine seized has not yet been released.

Robertson said Larkin has an August trial date.