NUGGETRY News » Arizona http://news.nuggetry.com Thu, 23 May 2013 14:41:00 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 US Border Patrol Agent Admits to Smuggling Marijuana While on Duty http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/us-border-patrol-agent-admits-to-smuggling-marijuana-while-on-duty/ http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/us-border-patrol-agent-admits-to-smuggling-marijuana-while-on-duty/#comments Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:08:07 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4295 During an aerial surveillance run over the southwestern Arizona border, investigators saw Anaya load marijuana bundles that had been dropped over the border fence from Mexico into his border patrol vehicle. Investigators then tracked Anaya for several hours as he appeared to go back to his work tasks.  The investigators later found almost 150 pounds of marijuana stashed in the back of the agency patrol vehicle. Federal Magistrate David K. Duncan asked Anaya whether the allegations against him were true. "Yes sir," said Anaya, dressed in a black and white striped jail suit.
As part of a plea deal, Anaya admitted that he would have used his service weapons-- a rifle and a hand gun-- that he carried on duty to protect himself if a situation had come about where rival marijuana traffickers had tried to steal the weed from him.
The plea bargain requires prosecutors to dismiss four other charges filed against Anaya, including marijuana importation.
Attorneys on both side agreed to a five year sentence, though US District Judge Roslyn Silver will get the final say in the matter.  Sentencing will occur on June 24.
Anaya is still employed by the US Border Patrol but is on indefinite unpaid suspension.
]]> During an aerial surveillance run over the southwestern Arizona border, investigators saw Anaya load marijuana bundles that had been dropped over the border fence from Mexico into his border patrol vehicle. Investigators then tracked Anaya for several hours as he appeared to go back to his work tasks.  The investigators later found almost 150 pounds of marijuana stashed in the back of the agency patrol vehicle. Federal Magistrate David K. Duncan asked Anaya whether the allegations against him were true. "Yes sir," said Anaya, dressed in a black and white striped jail suit.
As part of a plea deal, Anaya admitted that he would have used his service weapons-- a rifle and a hand gun-- that he carried on duty to protect himself if a situation had come about where rival marijuana traffickers had tried to steal the weed from him.
The plea bargain requires prosecutors to dismiss four other charges filed against Anaya, including marijuana importation.
Attorneys on both side agreed to a five year sentence, though US District Judge Roslyn Silver will get the final say in the matter.  Sentencing will occur on June 24.
Anaya is still employed by the US Border Patrol but is on indefinite unpaid suspension.
]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/us-border-patrol-agent-admits-to-smuggling-marijuana-while-on-duty/feed/ 3 Appeal Filed Against Arizona Marijuana DUI Ruling http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/appeal-filed-against-arizona-marijuana-dui-ruling/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/appeal-filed-against-arizona-marijuana-dui-ruling/#comments Sat, 30 Mar 2013 13:45:00 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4202 Now the Arizona Supreme Court is being asked to review the lower court's ruling that marijuana smokers can be prosecuted for driving under the influence even when there is no indication that they are actually high or impaired. The original case was a motorist who's blood test revealed a chemical compound that is found in the blood after another compound produced from ingesting marijuana breaks down.  The motorist showed no signs of being impaired, but was still charged with a DUI for having THC traces in their system. Because THC, or traces of THC, can remain in a person's blood stream for so long, many argue that blood testing for marijuana DUIs is not an accurate way to tell whether someone was driving while too impaired to do so. The Arizona Supreme Court will review several legal briefs and decide whether they will hear the case.   [Source]]]> Now the Arizona Supreme Court is being asked to review the lower court's ruling that marijuana smokers can be prosecuted for driving under the influence even when there is no indication that they are actually high or impaired. The original case was a motorist who's blood test revealed a chemical compound that is found in the blood after another compound produced from ingesting marijuana breaks down.  The motorist showed no signs of being impaired, but was still charged with a DUI for having THC traces in their system. Because THC, or traces of THC, can remain in a person's blood stream for so long, many argue that blood testing for marijuana DUIs is not an accurate way to tell whether someone was driving while too impaired to do so. The Arizona Supreme Court will review several legal briefs and decide whether they will hear the case.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/appeal-filed-against-arizona-marijuana-dui-ruling/feed/ 4 Nevada Lawmakers to Tour Arizona Medical Marijuana Dispensary http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/nevada-lawmakers-to-tour-arizona-medical-marijuana-dispensary/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/nevada-lawmakers-to-tour-arizona-medical-marijuana-dispensary/#comments Fri, 22 Mar 2013 12:21:28 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4133 A recent court challenge blamed the Nevada legislature for the state's poorly written medical marijuana laws, and now some lawmakers are taking matters into their own hands. This week, five state senators and one member of the Assembly will fly to Arizona to tour their medical marijuana dispensaries and a grow house.  They will meet with Arizona lawmakers to talk about the state's newly implemented system for distributing medical marijuana to patients. The trip was organized by Las Vegas Senator Tick Segerblom.  Traveling with him will be senators Mark Hutchison, R-Las Vegas; Scott Hammond, R-Las Vegas; David Parks, D-Las Vegas; Ruben Kihuen, D-Las Vegas; and Assemblywoman Michelle Fiore, R-Las Vegas. The lawmakers are paying their own way and Segerblom’s campaign is paying for the bus.
A new bill, proposed by Segerblom, would allow for he establishment of medical marijuana collectives in Nevada.  Many lawmakers are getting on board, and others hope to learn more about dispensaries through their trip to Arizona. Senator Kihuen explained, "I want to learn more about these medical marijuana dispensaries.  If it's a bill that we're going to consider here in the Legislature, in order for us to make an informed decision, we have to go out there to other states and see how they're doing." Segerblom's proposed dispensary bill was just assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee, where it is expected to pass.  It would then go to the Senate for a possible vote. “Realistically, the problem is that when you use the word marijuana, a lot of politicians get very skittish and think that somehow or other they’re endorsing smoking marijuana, which they’re not,” Segerblom said. “The key to this whole thing in my opinion is that there is no marijuana going to people other than people who have cards.” [Source]
]]> A recent court challenge blamed the Nevada legislature for the state's poorly written medical marijuana laws, and now some lawmakers are taking matters into their own hands. This week, five state senators and one member of the Assembly will fly to Arizona to tour their medical marijuana dispensaries and a grow house.  They will meet with Arizona lawmakers to talk about the state's newly implemented system for distributing medical marijuana to patients. The trip was organized by Las Vegas Senator Tick Segerblom.  Traveling with him will be senators Mark Hutchison, R-Las Vegas; Scott Hammond, R-Las Vegas; David Parks, D-Las Vegas; Ruben Kihuen, D-Las Vegas; and Assemblywoman Michelle Fiore, R-Las Vegas. The lawmakers are paying their own way and Segerblom’s campaign is paying for the bus.
A new bill, proposed by Segerblom, would allow for he establishment of medical marijuana collectives in Nevada.  Many lawmakers are getting on board, and others hope to learn more about dispensaries through their trip to Arizona. Senator Kihuen explained, "I want to learn more about these medical marijuana dispensaries.  If it's a bill that we're going to consider here in the Legislature, in order for us to make an informed decision, we have to go out there to other states and see how they're doing." Segerblom's proposed dispensary bill was just assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee, where it is expected to pass.  It would then go to the Senate for a possible vote. “Realistically, the problem is that when you use the word marijuana, a lot of politicians get very skittish and think that somehow or other they’re endorsing smoking marijuana, which they’re not,” Segerblom said. “The key to this whole thing in my opinion is that there is no marijuana going to people other than people who have cards.” [Source]
]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/nevada-lawmakers-to-tour-arizona-medical-marijuana-dispensary/feed/ 1 Over 100 Lbs of Marijuana Discovered at Arizona Food Bank http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/over-100-lbs-of-marijuana-discovered-at-arizona-food-bank/ http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/over-100-lbs-of-marijuana-discovered-at-arizona-food-bank/#comments Mon, 25 Feb 2013 16:17:36 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3943 Police do not suspect that it was an inside job, and there was no evidence that linked Douglas Food Bank employees or volunteers to the package of marijuana. Tuscon News Now is reporting that the food bank is under heavy surveillance and that the president of the food bank plans to hold inspections more regularly. Food bank president Bill Carnegie told the press, "We haven't really felt a need to do that with produce that's coming in.  Especially when it's coming in bulk like this product was.  So, we are going to get our volunteers on it and sort through this stuff and make sure it never happens again."   [Source]]]> Police do not suspect that it was an inside job, and there was no evidence that linked Douglas Food Bank employees or volunteers to the package of marijuana. Tuscon News Now is reporting that the food bank is under heavy surveillance and that the president of the food bank plans to hold inspections more regularly. Food bank president Bill Carnegie told the press, "We haven't really felt a need to do that with produce that's coming in.  Especially when it's coming in bulk like this product was.  So, we are going to get our volunteers on it and sort through this stuff and make sure it never happens again."   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/over-100-lbs-of-marijuana-discovered-at-arizona-food-bank/feed/ 7 Arizona Lawmaker Wants to Tighten Medical Marijuana Program http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-lawmaker-wants-to-tighten-medical-marijuana-program/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-lawmaker-wants-to-tighten-medical-marijuana-program/#comments Mon, 04 Feb 2013 15:51:12 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3750 Yee plans to introduce two separate bills today.  In order to amend the Arionza Medical Marijuana Act, she would have to obtain a 3/4 majority vote by the Legislature. The first bill that will be introduced by Yee aims to force medical marijuana dispensaries to label edibles, such as cookies or brownies infused with marijuana, to make it clear that they are not for use by children and are to be consumed only for medical purposes. Yee has suggested that the packaging resemble the US surgeon general's warning on cigarettes.  The goal of the new labels would be to protect unknowing consumers.  It would keep edibles out of the hands of children or unsuspecting individuals who did not realize they were about to consume marijuana. She said, "We are finding the products being produced that contain marijuana appear to be geared toward the youngest consumer-- we're talking about lollipops, chocolate bars, and things that appeal to a minor.  And it is something the parents and consumers should clearly be aware of before purchasing that product." The second bill that will be introduced by Yee will give police the power to destroy or dispose of any drugs seized during criminal investigations once inquiries are completed.  Currently, police are required to store the drugs and care for the plants in case courts order them returned to a patient. County Attorney Sheila Polk supports this bill, because she believes that currently police are required to take too much responsibility for the confiscated drugs.  She explained, “If law enforcement goes in, and there’s 14 plants, and they pull out the plants… and the expectation is that they have to be returned, what’s law enforcement to do? Plant the plants, water them and continue to cultivate them? The idea that law enforcement would be cultivating marijuana is an outrageous idea.” Medical marijuana advocates, however, do not approve of the proposed bill to allow police to destroy medical marijuana after it is seized.  Doug Banfelder, board member of the Arizona Wellness Chamber of Commerce, stated, "What if the accused are acquitted or charges aren't brought -- it's still their property.  They'd have a right to have it back.  It's still their property." In order to make changes to a voter approved law, a lawmaker must believe that the changes will advance the intent of the original law.  Yee is confident that these two bills would advance the original intent of Arizona's medical marijuana law.   [Source]  ]]> Yee plans to introduce two separate bills today.  In order to amend the Arionza Medical Marijuana Act, she would have to obtain a 3/4 majority vote by the Legislature. The first bill that will be introduced by Yee aims to force medical marijuana dispensaries to label edibles, such as cookies or brownies infused with marijuana, to make it clear that they are not for use by children and are to be consumed only for medical purposes. Yee has suggested that the packaging resemble the US surgeon general's warning on cigarettes.  The goal of the new labels would be to protect unknowing consumers.  It would keep edibles out of the hands of children or unsuspecting individuals who did not realize they were about to consume marijuana. She said, "We are finding the products being produced that contain marijuana appear to be geared toward the youngest consumer-- we're talking about lollipops, chocolate bars, and things that appeal to a minor.  And it is something the parents and consumers should clearly be aware of before purchasing that product." The second bill that will be introduced by Yee will give police the power to destroy or dispose of any drugs seized during criminal investigations once inquiries are completed.  Currently, police are required to store the drugs and care for the plants in case courts order them returned to a patient. County Attorney Sheila Polk supports this bill, because she believes that currently police are required to take too much responsibility for the confiscated drugs.  She explained, “If law enforcement goes in, and there’s 14 plants, and they pull out the plants… and the expectation is that they have to be returned, what’s law enforcement to do? Plant the plants, water them and continue to cultivate them? The idea that law enforcement would be cultivating marijuana is an outrageous idea.” Medical marijuana advocates, however, do not approve of the proposed bill to allow police to destroy medical marijuana after it is seized.  Doug Banfelder, board member of the Arizona Wellness Chamber of Commerce, stated, "What if the accused are acquitted or charges aren't brought -- it's still their property.  They'd have a right to have it back.  It's still their property." In order to make changes to a voter approved law, a lawmaker must believe that the changes will advance the intent of the original law.  Yee is confident that these two bills would advance the original intent of Arizona's medical marijuana law.   [Source]  ]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-lawmaker-wants-to-tighten-medical-marijuana-program/feed/ 4 Arizona Proposes Medical Marijuana Repeal http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-proposes-medical-marijuana-repeal/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-proposes-medical-marijuana-repeal/#comments Fri, 18 Jan 2013 15:54:49 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3622 Kavanagh never supported AZ's medical marijuana law, but was inspried to fight for its repeal after seeing results of a 2012 student survey that he believed showed that 1 in 10 school children who smoke marijuana in the state get it from medical marijuana patients.  Kavanagh did not address the fact that more students received marijuana from their friends (72%), at parties (28.6%), 'other' (23.7%), at school (13.4%), or from family/relatives (14.8%) than from medical card holders (11.6%). The survey also showed that one in six of those surveyed got alcohol from their parents and 30% of those surveyed who used prescriptions drugs to get high got them from their family's medicine cabinet. While he did say, "Let's crack down on parents and people who provide the other substances to kids.  Let's not simply add a third item and make it even more available to children," Kavanagh has not taken any steps to keep alcohol or prescription pills away from children. Keep AZ Drug Free Chairwoman Carolyn Short supports Rep. Kavanagh's efforts.  "We just want to get rid of it," she explained.  "There is nothing good about it.  I don't know what the legitimate use of marijuana is.  The FDA says it is a substance that cannot be used, even under the direction or care of a doctor." Short continued by rejecting that marijuana has any benefits, saying that "Any benefits to the few participants in the medical marijuana program who are seriously ill are overwhelmingly outweighed by the harm to our kids and communities." If truth be told, Arizona's medical marijuana program hasn't even been given a shot to do any harm to children, not that it would.  The program has been greatly stalled, and few legal medical marijuana dispensaries have been allowed to open to serve patients.  A state that's supposed to have over 100 legal collectives has only seen three open their doors since medical marijuana was legalized in 2010. While the state's medical marijuana act initially passed by a slim margin, more people than ever now support the law.  New polls show that 59% of Arizonans are in favor or medical marijuana.  Additionally, 59% of Arizonans were found to be in favor of full legalization of marijuana.  Those numbers aren't stopping Kavanagh, though they may in 2014 if his proposed repeal actually makes it to the ballot. In order to get the repeal onto the 2014 ballot, Kavanagh just needs to get a simple majority in the House and Senate. [Source]]]> Kavanagh never supported AZ's medical marijuana law, but was inspried to fight for its repeal after seeing results of a 2012 student survey that he believed showed that 1 in 10 school children who smoke marijuana in the state get it from medical marijuana patients.  Kavanagh did not address the fact that more students received marijuana from their friends (72%), at parties (28.6%), 'other' (23.7%), at school (13.4%), or from family/relatives (14.8%) than from medical card holders (11.6%). The survey also showed that one in six of those surveyed got alcohol from their parents and 30% of those surveyed who used prescriptions drugs to get high got them from their family's medicine cabinet. While he did say, "Let's crack down on parents and people who provide the other substances to kids.  Let's not simply add a third item and make it even more available to children," Kavanagh has not taken any steps to keep alcohol or prescription pills away from children. Keep AZ Drug Free Chairwoman Carolyn Short supports Rep. Kavanagh's efforts.  "We just want to get rid of it," she explained.  "There is nothing good about it.  I don't know what the legitimate use of marijuana is.  The FDA says it is a substance that cannot be used, even under the direction or care of a doctor." Short continued by rejecting that marijuana has any benefits, saying that "Any benefits to the few participants in the medical marijuana program who are seriously ill are overwhelmingly outweighed by the harm to our kids and communities." If truth be told, Arizona's medical marijuana program hasn't even been given a shot to do any harm to children, not that it would.  The program has been greatly stalled, and few legal medical marijuana dispensaries have been allowed to open to serve patients.  A state that's supposed to have over 100 legal collectives has only seen three open their doors since medical marijuana was legalized in 2010. While the state's medical marijuana act initially passed by a slim margin, more people than ever now support the law.  New polls show that 59% of Arizonans are in favor or medical marijuana.  Additionally, 59% of Arizonans were found to be in favor of full legalization of marijuana.  Those numbers aren't stopping Kavanagh, though they may in 2014 if his proposed repeal actually makes it to the ballot. In order to get the repeal onto the 2014 ballot, Kavanagh just needs to get a simple majority in the House and Senate. [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-proposes-medical-marijuana-repeal/feed/ 16 Tuscon’s Second Legal Medical Marijuana Dispensary Opens http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/tuscons-second-legal-medical-marijuana-dispensary-opens/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/tuscons-second-legal-medical-marijuana-dispensary-opens/#comments Wed, 02 Jan 2013 15:29:35 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3497 Manager Ken Sobel gave the press a tour of the collective, which includes top of the line security.  The collective features buds and edibles. Sobel talked about their menu, stating, "We're talking a whole range of things..pretty much candies, a Tootsie pop thing they can suck on, brownies, different baked goods... chocolate things that are very tasty, but also a great way to deliver the medicine." The opening of new collectives proves problematic for some Arizona patients, who will be required to purchase their medicine rather than grow their own.  Arizona's medical marijuana law has a stipulation that says patients can only grow their own medicine if they live more than 25 miles from a dispensary.  That means that some patients who were happy growing their own medicine will now be forced to make an almost 90 minute round trip drive to get to Green Halo. Other patients who were not previously growing for themselves are happy to have safe access to medicine, even if it means a bit of a drive. Green Halo's opening closely follows a ruling that federal law does not preempt Arizona's medical marijuana laws.  The ruling required state officials to issue the required permits to hopeful business owners so that collectives could begin to operate. State officials cannot disclose the locations of dispensaries in Arizona, but reports indicate the collective is located at 3359 N. Freeway in Tuscon.   [Source]]]> Manager Ken Sobel gave the press a tour of the collective, which includes top of the line security.  The collective features buds and edibles. Sobel talked about their menu, stating, "We're talking a whole range of things..pretty much candies, a Tootsie pop thing they can suck on, brownies, different baked goods... chocolate things that are very tasty, but also a great way to deliver the medicine." The opening of new collectives proves problematic for some Arizona patients, who will be required to purchase their medicine rather than grow their own.  Arizona's medical marijuana law has a stipulation that says patients can only grow their own medicine if they live more than 25 miles from a dispensary.  That means that some patients who were happy growing their own medicine will now be forced to make an almost 90 minute round trip drive to get to Green Halo. Other patients who were not previously growing for themselves are happy to have safe access to medicine, even if it means a bit of a drive. Green Halo's opening closely follows a ruling that federal law does not preempt Arizona's medical marijuana laws.  The ruling required state officials to issue the required permits to hopeful business owners so that collectives could begin to operate. State officials cannot disclose the locations of dispensaries in Arizona, but reports indicate the collective is located at 3359 N. Freeway in Tuscon.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/tuscons-second-legal-medical-marijuana-dispensary-opens/feed/ 2 Arizona Court Denies Attempt to Block Medical Marijuana Ruling http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-court-denies-attempt-to-block-medical-marijuana-ruling/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-court-denies-attempt-to-block-medical-marijuana-ruling/#comments Fri, 21 Dec 2012 15:37:44 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3411 Following Gordon's denial, Montgomery filed with the Court of Appeals to try to get the ruling blocked.  On Thursday morning, a three judge panel quickly rejected the motion to delay Gordon's December 4th ruling that says Arizona's medical marijuana law is not preempted by federal law. The appellate panel heard oral arguments in the morning, then rejected the motion without explanation. The county was represented by Attorney Tom Liddy, who argued that public employees risk prosecution for violating federal drug laws if they process zoning paperwork to allow dispensaries to operate.  Processing the paperwork, according to Liddy, would constitute putting the employees at risk of irreparable harm, which is one of the legal conditions necessary for granting a temporary stay of the law. The panel dismissed those concerns.  Judge Samuel Thumma said, "Are you aware of ... any context where (a public employee) has been put in harm's way from criminal prosecution?"  Liddy replied, "Federal prosecution?  No, I am not aware of that." The ruling means that state and county employees cannot withhold zoning paperwork from collectives and must allow them to open.   [Source]]]> Following Gordon's denial, Montgomery filed with the Court of Appeals to try to get the ruling blocked.  On Thursday morning, a three judge panel quickly rejected the motion to delay Gordon's December 4th ruling that says Arizona's medical marijuana law is not preempted by federal law. The appellate panel heard oral arguments in the morning, then rejected the motion without explanation. The county was represented by Attorney Tom Liddy, who argued that public employees risk prosecution for violating federal drug laws if they process zoning paperwork to allow dispensaries to operate.  Processing the paperwork, according to Liddy, would constitute putting the employees at risk of irreparable harm, which is one of the legal conditions necessary for granting a temporary stay of the law. The panel dismissed those concerns.  Judge Samuel Thumma said, "Are you aware of ... any context where (a public employee) has been put in harm's way from criminal prosecution?"  Liddy replied, "Federal prosecution?  No, I am not aware of that." The ruling means that state and county employees cannot withhold zoning paperwork from collectives and must allow them to open.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-court-denies-attempt-to-block-medical-marijuana-ruling/feed/ 3 Arizona Court of Appeals to Hear Medical Marijuana Case http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-court-of-appeals-to-hear-medical-marijuana-case/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-court-of-appeals-to-hear-medical-marijuana-case/#comments Sat, 15 Dec 2012 14:34:15 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3371 Gordon's refusal has now prompted Maricopa County Attorney Bill Montgomery to file with the Court of Appeals to try to get the ruling blocked.  Montgomery wants the appellate court to rule that Arizona's medical marijuana is preempted by federal law and that Maricopa county is not required to give zoning permits to medical marijuana dispensary owners. Montgomery requested a quick decision from the court of appeals. He believes that the county could suffer "irreparable harm" if county officials are required to issue zoning permits to collectives.  Montgomery explained that state employees would be forced to "commit violations of federal law by facilitating" the manufacturing and distribution of marijuana. This high profile case will begin with oral arguments at 9:30 AM on Thursday December 20.   [Source]]]> Gordon's refusal has now prompted Maricopa County Attorney Bill Montgomery to file with the Court of Appeals to try to get the ruling blocked.  Montgomery wants the appellate court to rule that Arizona's medical marijuana is preempted by federal law and that Maricopa county is not required to give zoning permits to medical marijuana dispensary owners. Montgomery requested a quick decision from the court of appeals. He believes that the county could suffer "irreparable harm" if county officials are required to issue zoning permits to collectives.  Montgomery explained that state employees would be forced to "commit violations of federal law by facilitating" the manufacturing and distribution of marijuana. This high profile case will begin with oral arguments at 9:30 AM on Thursday December 20.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-court-of-appeals-to-hear-medical-marijuana-case/feed/ 5 Judge to Hold Hearing on Arizona’s Medical Marijuana Law http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/judge-to-hold-hearing-on-arizonas-medical-marijuana-law/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/judge-to-hold-hearing-on-arizonas-medical-marijuana-law/#comments Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:32:41 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3358 Last week, judge Michael Gordon ruled that Arizona's medical marijuana law is not preempted by federal law.  Today, a hearing will be held on whether the ruling should be temporarily blocked. The Maricopa County Attorney's Office has asked Gordon to suspend his ruling pending the outcome of an appeal to a higher court. Gordon's ruling led to the opening of Arizona's first legal dispensary in Glendale.  If he suspends his ruling, the fate of the collective will be in jeopardy.   [Source]]]> Last week, judge Michael Gordon ruled that Arizona's medical marijuana law is not preempted by federal law.  Today, a hearing will be held on whether the ruling should be temporarily blocked. The Maricopa County Attorney's Office has asked Gordon to suspend his ruling pending the outcome of an appeal to a higher court. Gordon's ruling led to the opening of Arizona's first legal dispensary in Glendale.  If he suspends his ruling, the fate of the collective will be in jeopardy.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/judge-to-hold-hearing-on-arizonas-medical-marijuana-law/feed/ 1 First Legal Medical Marijuana Dispensaries to Open in New Jersey, Arizona http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/first-legal-medical-marijuana-dispensaries-to-open-in-new-jersey-arizona/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/first-legal-medical-marijuana-dispensaries-to-open-in-new-jersey-arizona/#comments Thu, 06 Dec 2012 15:10:26 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3309 In New Jersey, the Greenleaf Compassion Center in Montclair will begin serving patients today.  Twenty patients are registered to go to the collective and each will be able to bring home a half ounce of marijuana. Greenleaf received its operating permit in October, but waited to hear back about the state's stance on levying a sales tax on medical marijuana before their opened.  Last week, Governor Christie's administration announced that the state's 7% sales tax will apply to medical marijuana. Arizona's first legal medical marijuana collective will also open today.  Arizona Organix in Glendale will open this morning, which is bittersweet news for many in the Phoenix area. Arizona's medical marijuana law only allows patients to grow their own marijuana if they live further than 25 miles from a dispensary.  Now that Arizona Organix is opening, that means that everyone in a 25 mile radius will be forced to stop growing their own medicine.  So for those who prefer to grow for themselves, the opening of the shop is nothing to celebrate.  Others, however, who do not have the resources to grow for themselves, are thankful to finally have safe and legal access to medical marijuana nearby. The opening of Arizona Organix comes after Maricopa County Court Judge Michael Gordon ruled that Arizona's medical marijuana law is not preempted by federal law. Both New Jersey and Arizona's medical marijuana laws were passed in 2010.   [Source]]]> In New Jersey, the Greenleaf Compassion Center in Montclair will begin serving patients today.  Twenty patients are registered to go to the collective and each will be able to bring home a half ounce of marijuana. Greenleaf received its operating permit in October, but waited to hear back about the state's stance on levying a sales tax on medical marijuana before their opened.  Last week, Governor Christie's administration announced that the state's 7% sales tax will apply to medical marijuana. Arizona's first legal medical marijuana collective will also open today.  Arizona Organix in Glendale will open this morning, which is bittersweet news for many in the Phoenix area. Arizona's medical marijuana law only allows patients to grow their own marijuana if they live further than 25 miles from a dispensary.  Now that Arizona Organix is opening, that means that everyone in a 25 mile radius will be forced to stop growing their own medicine.  So for those who prefer to grow for themselves, the opening of the shop is nothing to celebrate.  Others, however, who do not have the resources to grow for themselves, are thankful to finally have safe and legal access to medical marijuana nearby. The opening of Arizona Organix comes after Maricopa County Court Judge Michael Gordon ruled that Arizona's medical marijuana law is not preempted by federal law. Both New Jersey and Arizona's medical marijuana laws were passed in 2010.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/first-legal-medical-marijuana-dispensaries-to-open-in-new-jersey-arizona/feed/ 2 Arizona Judge Rules Medical Marijuana Law is Legal http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-judges-rules-medical-marijuana-law-is-legal/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-judges-rules-medical-marijuana-law-is-legal/#comments Wed, 05 Dec 2012 15:39:47 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3297 Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Michael Gordon rejected previous arguments from County Attorney Bill Montgomery and Attorney General Tom Horne that the medical marijuana act is void because the possession and sale of marijuana is illegal under the federal Controlled Substances Act. Gordon cited 17 other states plus the District of Columbia which have deemed medical marijuana to be legal.  He wrote, "This court will not file that Arizona, having sided with the ever-growing minority of states and having limited it to medical use, has violated public policy." Many collective owners who had hoped to open up shop in Arizona were denied permits and zoning letters because state officials did not want to be prosecuted under federal law.  Now, that stalling in the system should be eradicated and dispensaries should be able to move forward with the process of opening their doors for patients. Attorney General Horne thinks Gordon missed the mark, because selling marijuana, no matter what the intended use, is against federal law.  "A state cannot authorize what the federal government prohibits," he stated.  Horne referred to last year's ruling in Oregon which stated their medical marijuana program was preempted by federal law. During the ruling, Gordon acknowledged the earlier Oregon ruling, but said he sees no conflict for Arizona.  Gordon went so far as to say that the state's medical marijuana program actually aligns with the federal government's goal of combating drug abuse issues. "The Arizona statute requires a physician to review a patient's medical circumstances prior to authorization of its use," he explained.  People who are caught using marijuana without a card are still subject to arrest. Arizona's 2010 medical marijuana law allows a network of up to 125 state licensed collectives.  So far, only two dispensaries have been approved-- one in Glendale and one in Tuscon.   [Source]]]> Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Michael Gordon rejected previous arguments from County Attorney Bill Montgomery and Attorney General Tom Horne that the medical marijuana act is void because the possession and sale of marijuana is illegal under the federal Controlled Substances Act. Gordon cited 17 other states plus the District of Columbia which have deemed medical marijuana to be legal.  He wrote, "This court will not file that Arizona, having sided with the ever-growing minority of states and having limited it to medical use, has violated public policy." Many collective owners who had hoped to open up shop in Arizona were denied permits and zoning letters because state officials did not want to be prosecuted under federal law.  Now, that stalling in the system should be eradicated and dispensaries should be able to move forward with the process of opening their doors for patients. Attorney General Horne thinks Gordon missed the mark, because selling marijuana, no matter what the intended use, is against federal law.  "A state cannot authorize what the federal government prohibits," he stated.  Horne referred to last year's ruling in Oregon which stated their medical marijuana program was preempted by federal law. During the ruling, Gordon acknowledged the earlier Oregon ruling, but said he sees no conflict for Arizona.  Gordon went so far as to say that the state's medical marijuana program actually aligns with the federal government's goal of combating drug abuse issues. "The Arizona statute requires a physician to review a patient's medical circumstances prior to authorization of its use," he explained.  People who are caught using marijuana without a card are still subject to arrest. Arizona's 2010 medical marijuana law allows a network of up to 125 state licensed collectives.  So far, only two dispensaries have been approved-- one in Glendale and one in Tuscon.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-judges-rules-medical-marijuana-law-is-legal/feed/ 7 US Border Patrol Seizes Over 400 lbs. of Marijuana in One Week http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/us-border-patrol-seizes-over-400-lbs-of-marijuana-in-one-week/ http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/us-border-patrol-seizes-over-400-lbs-of-marijuana-in-one-week/#comments Thu, 01 Nov 2012 14:14:53 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3066 In two separate incidents over the course of the past week, Arizona border patrol agents have seized over 430 pounds of marijuana in an area southwest of Phoenix. The first incident occurred last Friday.  Agents were patrolling south of Gila Bend when they came upon four suspects who were carrying 235 pounds of marijuana wrapped in bundles.  The suspects and the drugs were turned in to the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office. On Wednesday, another incident occurred in the same area.  Border patrol agents tracked six sets of footprints through the desert.  They discovered six men carrying over 200 pounds of marijuana contained in bundles.  The suspected were arrested and held for prosecution. It is suspected that the men who were arrested were working for the same group or drug cartel, since they were discovered in the same area and the circumstances of the arrests were so similar. Agents estimate that the combined street value of the drugs is over $118,000.   [Source]]]> In two separate incidents over the course of the past week, Arizona border patrol agents have seized over 430 pounds of marijuana in an area southwest of Phoenix. The first incident occurred last Friday.  Agents were patrolling south of Gila Bend when they came upon four suspects who were carrying 235 pounds of marijuana wrapped in bundles.  The suspects and the drugs were turned in to the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office. On Wednesday, another incident occurred in the same area.  Border patrol agents tracked six sets of footprints through the desert.  They discovered six men carrying over 200 pounds of marijuana contained in bundles.  The suspected were arrested and held for prosecution. It is suspected that the men who were arrested were working for the same group or drug cartel, since they were discovered in the same area and the circumstances of the arrests were so similar. Agents estimate that the combined street value of the drugs is over $118,000.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/us-border-patrol-seizes-over-400-lbs-of-marijuana-in-one-week/feed/ 10 Over $100k of Marijuana Seized in Arizona Vehicle Stop http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/over-100k-of-marijuana-seized-in-arizona-vehicle-stop/ http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/over-100k-of-marijuana-seized-in-arizona-vehicle-stop/#comments Mon, 29 Oct 2012 16:15:08 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3044 At approximately 8:30 am, a Department of Public Safety officer pulled over a Ford pick up truck on State Route 347.  As the officer slowed behind the Ford, a Nissan pick up truck accelerated behind the officer's car and attempted to rear end it.  The officer pulled far onto the shoulder to avoid being hit by the Nissan. After the failed ramming attempt, the Nissan pulled onto the shoulder and the occupants of the vehicle fled into the desert.  They appeared to throw weapons into the desert as they ran.  Police are still searching for the weapons. At that point another vehicle, a Cadillac Escalade truck, that had been traveling with the other two vehicles looked as though it was going to attempt to ram the officer's car, but instead it sped off North on the freeway. Officers caught up with the Escalade and discovered 6 bales of marijuana inside the bed of the truck.  As of Sunday afternoon, the marijuana had not been weighed, but police estimated it was worth approximately $100,000. According to Arizona Department Public Safety spokesman Bart Graves, marijuana smugglers are employing convoys more frequently to keep police distracted from finding the marijuana.  "What is significant here is these distracting vehicles," he explained.  "That is how desperate these guys have become.  They will do anything to prevent authorities from seizing their drugs." Officers apprehended seven suspects.  As of Sunday afternoon, no arrests had been made.   [Source]]]> At approximately 8:30 am, a Department of Public Safety officer pulled over a Ford pick up truck on State Route 347.  As the officer slowed behind the Ford, a Nissan pick up truck accelerated behind the officer's car and attempted to rear end it.  The officer pulled far onto the shoulder to avoid being hit by the Nissan. After the failed ramming attempt, the Nissan pulled onto the shoulder and the occupants of the vehicle fled into the desert.  They appeared to throw weapons into the desert as they ran.  Police are still searching for the weapons. At that point another vehicle, a Cadillac Escalade truck, that had been traveling with the other two vehicles looked as though it was going to attempt to ram the officer's car, but instead it sped off North on the freeway. Officers caught up with the Escalade and discovered 6 bales of marijuana inside the bed of the truck.  As of Sunday afternoon, the marijuana had not been weighed, but police estimated it was worth approximately $100,000. According to Arizona Department Public Safety spokesman Bart Graves, marijuana smugglers are employing convoys more frequently to keep police distracted from finding the marijuana.  "What is significant here is these distracting vehicles," he explained.  "That is how desperate these guys have become.  They will do anything to prevent authorities from seizing their drugs." Officers apprehended seven suspects.  As of Sunday afternoon, no arrests had been made.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-crime/over-100k-of-marijuana-seized-in-arizona-vehicle-stop/feed/ 8 Arizona Medical Marijuana Collective Employee Shot http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-medical-marijuana-collective-employee-shot/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-medical-marijuana-collective-employee-shot/#comments Fri, 26 Oct 2012 20:09:34 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3031 Around 7PM on Thursday, three to six men entered Top Shelf Meds in Tempe (Formerly called AzGoGreen Co-op).  They confronted the employee before hitting him and then shooting him. The victim's name has not been released, but he is a man in his 30s.  He remains in the hospital to receive treatment for his serious injuries. According to the Tempe police department, Top Shelf Meds had previously been under investigation by the DEA.  The collective is operating without a license and is being investigated by the Tempe Police Department. Arizona's medical marijuana law allows for collectives, but the process of issuing licenses has been incredibly slow.  This has led many medical marijuana dispensaries to open without licenses from the state. This shooting is the first in Tempe that can be directly tied to medical marijuana businesses.  Police are now concerned that collectives will cause an increase in crime in their town. Lieutenant Jeffrey Glover explained, "You have that potential of people being a target.  There is definitely cause for concern for any community where [dispensaries] are placed.  The hope is as these dispensaries actually open that they have good security measures in place to help them not be targets and not have their customers being victimized."   [Source]]]> Around 7PM on Thursday, three to six men entered Top Shelf Meds in Tempe (Formerly called AzGoGreen Co-op).  They confronted the employee before hitting him and then shooting him. The victim's name has not been released, but he is a man in his 30s.  He remains in the hospital to receive treatment for his serious injuries. According to the Tempe police department, Top Shelf Meds had previously been under investigation by the DEA.  The collective is operating without a license and is being investigated by the Tempe Police Department. Arizona's medical marijuana law allows for collectives, but the process of issuing licenses has been incredibly slow.  This has led many medical marijuana dispensaries to open without licenses from the state. This shooting is the first in Tempe that can be directly tied to medical marijuana businesses.  Police are now concerned that collectives will cause an increase in crime in their town. Lieutenant Jeffrey Glover explained, "You have that potential of people being a target.  There is definitely cause for concern for any community where [dispensaries] are placed.  The hope is as these dispensaries actually open that they have good security measures in place to help them not be targets and not have their customers being victimized."   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/arizona-medical-marijuana-collective-employee-shot/feed/ 19