7 Puerto Rico policemen charged in federal corruption case

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Federal authorities say seven police officers in the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico have been indicted on charges including extortion, robbery and drug trafficking.

The U.S. Attorney’s office said Thursday that the officers were assigned to a drug unit in the northern town of Caguas and are also accused of carrying weapons while allegedly distributing drugs including marijuana.

If found guilty, the suspects could face between five and 20 years in prison.

Puerto Rico’s police department is undergoing a federally mandated reform after U.S. prosecutors issued a report accusing officers of illegal killings, corruption and civil rights violations.