The accusations of gang ties expanded during Wednesday’s proceedings. Cory described James and William Edwards as “founding members” of the Insane Deuces, a violent Chicago street gang. He said Horvath, O’Neal and Mario Gadberry are also members of the gang, though Horvath claims membership in the Disciples gang.

Investigators reported using a tracking device to follow James Edwards’ vehicle as it traveled between Ottumwa and Chicago to pick up cocaine and bring it back to southeast Iowa. The trips took place every one or two weeks. Investigators had the Illinois State Patrol stop James Edwards’ vehicle on one trip and a drug-sniffing dog indicated drugs were present in the car. The authorities found cocaine in the trunk.

Meanwhile, suspect Jerry Miller’s attorney disputed investigators’ assertion that Miller is “a top dog in the organization.” He said the amount of cocaine investigators can tie to Miller is miniscule in comparison to the amount brought back to Iowa. Cory responded that Miller told investigators about his involvement in sales that far exceed those specified in the complaint.

Each defendant, with the exceptions of Gadberry, Marlon Rust and Rafael DeLazaro, who waived their detention hearings, asked the court for pre-trial release. The judge Wednesday did release Sandra Lee Piedlow, who is in custody of her parents.

The judge is still considering requests from Horvath and Miller, whose release prior to the trial date remains possible. The other defendants remain in custody.

William Edwards, the alleged ringleader, was not at either session on Wednesday. Trial is currently set for Sept. 29.

Matt Milner can be reached at (641) 683-5359 or via e-mail at mwmilner@mchsi.com