DENVER -- A Chinese restaurant owner in Thornton has pleaded guilty to laundering money to fund a marijuana-growing operation.

Dan Tang, 46, entered his plea in federal court in Denver Friday morning.

Tang's Heaven Dragon restaurant became well known when he supplied Chinese food during Colorado visits by President George W. Bush. His restaurant has photos of himself with the former president, along with photos of former Vice President Dick Cheney and former Colorado Gov. Bill Owens.

Tang and his attorney did not talk to reporters after the guilty plea was entered but Tang had steadfastly proclaimed his innocence.

He'll be sentenced on Feb. 11 and faces up to seven years in prison, but prosecutors have recommended up to 30 months. He also could be assessed a fine not to exceed $500,000, or twice the value of the property involved in the money laundering transactions.

"Dan Tang presented himself to the community as being a successful businessman," DEA Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey D. Sweetin said after his June arrest. "In reality, he was also a successful drug dealer."

The defendant was charged by information, which meant he waived his Constitutional right to be indicted by a federal grand jury.

Click here for the information document charging Dan Tang.