Dennison had his preliminary hearing today and is being federally indicted on 1 Hundred Sixteen counts. Dennison appeared before Federal Magistrate John Kaull. He entered a "not guilty" plea.

For the first time, Dennison heard the details of what the penalties are if he is found guilty. He is facing charges ranging from not being certified as a coal miner and mine foreman to falsifying mine documents and statements to MSHA officials back in 2004.

According to the indictment, Dennison allegedly said he had his certification to work in the coal mine and be a foreman, when, the charges allege, in reality he only had certification to be a surface truck driver.

If he is found guilty Dennison faces up to 580 years in prison and close to $2-million dollars in fines. Magistrate Kaull took time out during the hearing to explain that in the federal system there is no parole.

Dennison was released to the custody of his family by must check in with a federal probation officer. His trial is set to get under way on May 22nd.

Previous Story:
Former Miner Indicted