LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) - A methamphetamine investigation in the Lubbock area has led to a 428-count federal indictment charging eight people.

U.S. Attorney James Jacks says the indictment was unsealed Monday and seven suspects were in custody.

The indictment alleges the defendants, since December 2008, would "smurf," make multiple purchases from various pharmacies, of small legal amounts of pseudoephedrine, which can be used to make meth.

All eight people are charged with conspiracy to possess pseudoephedrine with intent to manufacture methamphetamine and to manufacture, distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams of more of methamphetamine.

Each is also charged with possession of pseudoephedrine with intent to manufacture methamphetamine, which upon conviction carries a maximum 20-year prison term.

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