LEWISTON – Most of the 17 people indicted in a drug sweep Thursday were from the Twin Cities area. All but one were arraigned Thursday night in U.S. District Court in Portland. Twelve have posted bail and been released. A trial date was set for March 5 by U.S. Magistrate Judge David Cohen.

The 40-count indictment charges conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more cocaine, cocaine base and marijuana. That charge carries a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and a $2 million fine for each count. Another charge included in the indictment involves using a phone in committing or facilitating a drug crime. That charge carries a maximum penalty of four years and a $250,000 fine.

Those named in the indictment were:

• Jeremy Mercier, 24, of Minot

• Jason Jordan, 33, of Wales

• Donald Godin, 48, of Leeds

• Efstanthio Mihalakis, 25, of Winthrop

• Michael Hoffman, 24, of Auburn

• James Niemi, 36, of Turner

• Kirk Grover, 31, of Lewiston

• Scott Burns, 36, of Lewiston

• Royce Lajoie, 28, of Lewiston

• Justin Smith, 27, of Minot

• Joshua Black, 26, of Auburn

• James Michaud, 45, of Dixmont

• Pamela Bean, 25, of Lewiston

• Romaine Langelier, 27, of Lewiston

• Michelle Fortier, 24, of Minot

• Linda Wilson, 57, of Mechanic Falls

• Ryan Bourgoin, 23, of Auburn.