Agents Seize Meridian Tavern

United States Marshal James Benham and United States Attorneys, Betty Richardson and Sherry Matteucci have announced the seizure of Norm’s Inn, also known as Rhino Joe’s, in Meridian.

The tavern was forced to close Friday.

The Marshals Service seized the property after a special jury verdict was returned in the United State District Court for the District of Montana on Feb. 17, finding that the property was used as a drugselling establishment.

The jury also returned guilty verdicts against Joseph Leroy Lewis, the owner, for conspiring to distribute marijuana and for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamines.