The sentencing, handed down in a Tampa, Florida courtroom, is as a result of 3 convictions related to cocaine trafficking conspiracy.
37 year old Banton was arrested in Miami back in December 2009 for allegedly trying to buy cocaine from an undercover officer.
That charge ended in a mistrial last September but the singer was retried and found guilty this February on conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and using a telephone to facilitate a drug trafficking offense.
According to The Cleaner, a Jamaican website, Banton, who is a Rastarfarian, will be allowed to keep his trademark dreadlocks and practice his Faith while behind bars.
However, the singer will reportedly not be allowed to record or distribute any new music.
Banton, born Mark Anthony Myrie July 15, 1973 on the Caribbean Island of Jamaica, has sold numerous records on topics dealing with social and political issues. He was also known for his ant-gay lyrics. His 1988 Song 'Boom Bye Bye' advocated burning 'batty boys' a Jamaican slang for gay men.
Some say it was this anti-gay stance that caused his arrest and convictions. Many of his fans and supporters believe this was a conspiracy to 'get' the reggae singer as pay-back.
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