http://news.nuggetry.com Mon, 20 May 2013 19:26:16 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/feds-launch-new-wave-of-medical-marijuana-collective-crackdowns/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/feds-launch-new-wave-of-medical-marijuana-collective-crackdowns/#comments Tue, 07 May 2013 13:58:27 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4491 Yesterday, California was dealt a blow when the Supreme Court upheld cities' right to ban medical marijuana collectives.  Now, federal officials are launching a new wave of crackdowns on collectives in California, as well as Washington. This week, at least 11 medical marijuana dispensaries in Seattle received cease and desist letters warning them to close up or face federal punishment, which would be up to 40 years in prison.  Almost half of the collectives in San Fransisco also received warning letters, reducing the number of open collectives from 15 to 8.  A handful of collectives were warned in San Jose and other Northern California cities. The cease and desist letters from the DEA warn collective owners and their landlords that if they do not shut down in the next 30 days, the federal government will file civil forfeiture suits to seize the property housing the collective as well as everything inside.  This tactic has been frequently used by the DEA in recent months in order to encourage landlords to evict the collectives as soon as possible. According to DEA spokeswoman Jodie Underwood, all of the collectives that received letters are located within 1,000 feet of a school or prohibited area, such as a park, daycare center, or church.  She told the Seattle Times, "DEA enforces federal drug laws, and these letters have nothing to do with any pending legislation or state law.  As we continue to identify locations, additional letters will be sent out." Many dispensary owners have lamented that, especially in cities, it is nearly impossible to find a location that is not within 1,000 feet of a prohibited area.  Others allege that they received closure letters even though they have made sure that there are no prohibited areas within a 1,000 foot radius. All of these communities have seen federal intervention in the past, but many advocates see these crackdowns as being especially symbolic, due to the fact that they are happening post-sequester, even as law enforcement officials, including US Attorney General Eric Holder, are warning that the budget cuts are a threat to public safety.  That means that the federal government is considering medical marijuana raids high on its priority list.   [Source]]]> Yesterday, California was dealt a blow when the Supreme Court upheld cities' right to ban medical marijuana collectives.  Now, federal officials are launching a new wave of crackdowns on collectives in California, as well as Washington. This week, at least 11 medical marijuana dispensaries in Seattle received cease and desist letters warning them to close up or face federal punishment, which would be up to 40 years in prison.  Almost half of the collectives in San Fransisco also received warning letters, reducing the number of open collectives from 15 to 8.  A handful of collectives were warned in San Jose and other Northern California cities. The cease and desist letters from the DEA warn collective owners and their landlords that if they do not shut down in the next 30 days, the federal government will file civil forfeiture suits to seize the property housing the collective as well as everything inside.  This tactic has been frequently used by the DEA in recent months in order to encourage landlords to evict the collectives as soon as possible. According to DEA spokeswoman Jodie Underwood, all of the collectives that received letters are located within 1,000 feet of a school or prohibited area, such as a park, daycare center, or church.  She told the Seattle Times, "DEA enforces federal drug laws, and these letters have nothing to do with any pending legislation or state law.  As we continue to identify locations, additional letters will be sent out." Many dispensary owners have lamented that, especially in cities, it is nearly impossible to find a location that is not within 1,000 feet of a prohibited area.  Others allege that they received closure letters even though they have made sure that there are no prohibited areas within a 1,000 foot radius. All of these communities have seen federal intervention in the past, but many advocates see these crackdowns as being especially symbolic, due to the fact that they are happening post-sequester, even as law enforcement officials, including US Attorney General Eric Holder, are warning that the budget cuts are a threat to public safety.  That means that the federal government is considering medical marijuana raids high on its priority list.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/feds-launch-new-wave-of-medical-marijuana-collective-crackdowns/feed/ 23 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/san-diego-medical-marijuana-advocates-speak-out-against-feds-after-raid/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/san-diego-medical-marijuana-advocates-speak-out-against-feds-after-raid/#comments Thu, 02 May 2013 14:01:45 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4451 Federal officials forced their way into the collective offices, disable security cameras, and took records and marijuana from the office in the Gaslamp District. Cole is now speaking out against the federal government's relentless efforts to put a stop to medical marijuana in California, a state-approved enterprise. He explained, "I want the federal people to tell the general public, starting with out lawyers, that they have been lying to us for four years, or five years, or six years if necessary, by telling us that 'if you do follow all of the guidelines, you do follow all of the guidelines, you do follow all of the rules, we're not coming after you.  You're not the bad guys.  We're going after drug dealers." The association does not currently plan to re-open, pending any criminal charges that may be filed.  Cole is currently discussing the organization's legal options with their attorney.   [Source]]]> Federal officials forced their way into the collective offices, disable security cameras, and took records and marijuana from the office in the Gaslamp District. Cole is now speaking out against the federal government's relentless efforts to put a stop to medical marijuana in California, a state-approved enterprise. He explained, "I want the federal people to tell the general public, starting with out lawyers, that they have been lying to us for four years, or five years, or six years if necessary, by telling us that 'if you do follow all of the guidelines, you do follow all of the guidelines, you do follow all of the rules, we're not coming after you.  You're not the bad guys.  We're going after drug dealers." The association does not currently plan to re-open, pending any criminal charges that may be filed.  Cole is currently discussing the organization's legal options with their attorney.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/san-diego-medical-marijuana-advocates-speak-out-against-feds-after-raid/feed/ 2 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/feds-seize-oregons-medical-marijuana-patient-records/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/feds-seize-oregons-medical-marijuana-patient-records/#comments Sat, 13 Apr 2013 14:28:37 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4308 The seizure was executed in November as a part of an investigation into medical marijuana cultivators who were suspected of illegally selling their marijuana. The warrant to seize the records was applied for by Department of Justice Special Agent Michael Gutensohn.  In the application he wrote, "I have probable cause to believe that records from the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program will contain evidence and instrumentalities of marijuana manufacturing and trafficking conspiracy to commit marijuana manufacturing and trafficking offenses." According to Gerri Badden, a spokesperson for the US Attorney's Office in Oregon, only specific records listed in the warrant had been seized so far, but the investigation is ongoing. Oregon Public Health Division spokesperson Jonathan Modie explained that the state, "routinely releases records pursuant to a court order." He continued in an email to the Post-Intelligencer, "I want to emphasize, though, that unless compelled to do so by a court order, the OMMP does not give out information about patients, caregivers, or growers. "   [Source]]]> The seizure was executed in November as a part of an investigation into medical marijuana cultivators who were suspected of illegally selling their marijuana. The warrant to seize the records was applied for by Department of Justice Special Agent Michael Gutensohn.  In the application he wrote, "I have probable cause to believe that records from the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program will contain evidence and instrumentalities of marijuana manufacturing and trafficking conspiracy to commit marijuana manufacturing and trafficking offenses." According to Gerri Badden, a spokesperson for the US Attorney's Office in Oregon, only specific records listed in the warrant had been seized so far, but the investigation is ongoing. Oregon Public Health Division spokesperson Jonathan Modie explained that the state, "routinely releases records pursuant to a court order." He continued in an email to the Post-Intelligencer, "I want to emphasize, though, that unless compelled to do so by a court order, the OMMP does not give out information about patients, caregivers, or growers. "   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/feds-seize-oregons-medical-marijuana-patient-records/feed/ 3 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-seizure-numbers-drop-drastically-in-2012/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-seizure-numbers-drop-drastically-in-2012/#comments Fri, 12 Apr 2013 14:25:53 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4302 DEA officials had planned to destroy 9 million marijuana plants in 2012, but blamed budget cuts and sneakier tactics by drug traffickers for their shortcomings. The California state budget cuts resulted in "the decreased availability of local law enforcement personnel to assist in eradication efforts," according to the DEA's 2014 budget proposal.  Additionally, they explained that drug trafficking organizations are moving their marijuana grows to private agricultural areas rather than using public land, making them more difficult to target.  The growers who do still use public land choose mountainous, dangerous regions which are difficult for law enforcement officials to access. In addition to a drop in the DEA's eradication numbers, marijuana seizures have also dropped along the US borders.  According to the US Border Patrol budget report, the amount of marijuana seized at the borders dropped 9% between 2011 and 2012. In to a statement to Huffington Post, Marijuana Majority chairman Tom Angell reacted to the new figures.  He stated, "When the DEA cites the 'decreased availability of local law enforcement personnel to assist in eradication efforts' as a reason it's having a hard time enforcing marijuana prohibition, it validates the state-by-state strategy" put into place by drug policy reform advocates.   [Source]]]> DEA officials had planned to destroy 9 million marijuana plants in 2012, but blamed budget cuts and sneakier tactics by drug traffickers for their shortcomings. The California state budget cuts resulted in "the decreased availability of local law enforcement personnel to assist in eradication efforts," according to the DEA's 2014 budget proposal.  Additionally, they explained that drug trafficking organizations are moving their marijuana grows to private agricultural areas rather than using public land, making them more difficult to target.  The growers who do still use public land choose mountainous, dangerous regions which are difficult for law enforcement officials to access. In addition to a drop in the DEA's eradication numbers, marijuana seizures have also dropped along the US borders.  According to the US Border Patrol budget report, the amount of marijuana seized at the borders dropped 9% between 2011 and 2012. In to a statement to Huffington Post, Marijuana Majority chairman Tom Angell reacted to the new figures.  He stated, "When the DEA cites the 'decreased availability of local law enforcement personnel to assist in eradication efforts' as a reason it's having a hard time enforcing marijuana prohibition, it validates the state-by-state strategy" put into place by drug policy reform advocates.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-seizure-numbers-drop-drastically-in-2012/feed/ 5 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/medical-group-calls-for-marijuana-research/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/medical-group-calls-for-marijuana-research/#comments Sat, 09 Mar 2013 15:59:27 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4041 At the same time, the MMS has dropped their efforts to have marijuana rescheduled so that research could be more easily conducted.  The group recently received a response from the US DEA stating that marijuana's schedule I classification does not "preclude scientific research" on the plant or its components, as long as the research receives proper approvals. In a statement released Friday on the MMS website, President Dr. Richard Aghababian said, "Given this information, it's time for medical and scientific communities to develop large-scale clinical trials to determine whether marijuana is safe and effective as a medical intervention.  Such research should identify all the treatment protocols that would apply to a standard pharmaceutical therapy, including indications, contraindications, dosages, length of therapy, side effects, and more." Despite the DEA's assurances, many researchers who have been trying to do exactly what Dr. Aghababian described have faced roadblocks along the way. For example, Dr. Igor Grant published a paper last year that showed marijuana relieved pain for HIV patients.  Based on their research, they found that marijuana's schedule I status was inappropriate.  They wrote, "The classification of marijuana as a Schedule I drug as well as the continuing controversy as to whether or not cannabis is of medical value are obstacles to medical progress in this area." Another problem with marijuana research is that researchers must use marijuana from the federal drug supply, which is limited.  According the Rick Doblin, executive director of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, said that there is a monopoly on the supply by the National Institute of Drug Abuse, aided by the DEA. The MAPS has tried to gain access to the federal marijuana supply to study the effects of marijuana for PTSD patients, but the federal reviewers have said that the research is not scientifically sound. It seems as though the DEA's answer was the diplomatic one, giving researchers and medical marijuana advocates hope.  However, once researchers actually try to have their projects approved and gain access to the federal drug supply, they may realize they are caught up in more red tape than anticipated.   [Source]]]> At the same time, the MMS has dropped their efforts to have marijuana rescheduled so that research could be more easily conducted.  The group recently received a response from the US DEA stating that marijuana's schedule I classification does not "preclude scientific research" on the plant or its components, as long as the research receives proper approvals. In a statement released Friday on the MMS website, President Dr. Richard Aghababian said, "Given this information, it's time for medical and scientific communities to develop large-scale clinical trials to determine whether marijuana is safe and effective as a medical intervention.  Such research should identify all the treatment protocols that would apply to a standard pharmaceutical therapy, including indications, contraindications, dosages, length of therapy, side effects, and more." Despite the DEA's assurances, many researchers who have been trying to do exactly what Dr. Aghababian described have faced roadblocks along the way. For example, Dr. Igor Grant published a paper last year that showed marijuana relieved pain for HIV patients.  Based on their research, they found that marijuana's schedule I status was inappropriate.  They wrote, "The classification of marijuana as a Schedule I drug as well as the continuing controversy as to whether or not cannabis is of medical value are obstacles to medical progress in this area." Another problem with marijuana research is that researchers must use marijuana from the federal drug supply, which is limited.  According the Rick Doblin, executive director of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, said that there is a monopoly on the supply by the National Institute of Drug Abuse, aided by the DEA. The MAPS has tried to gain access to the federal marijuana supply to study the effects of marijuana for PTSD patients, but the federal reviewers have said that the research is not scientifically sound. It seems as though the DEA's answer was the diplomatic one, giving researchers and medical marijuana advocates hope.  However, once researchers actually try to have their projects approved and gain access to the federal drug supply, they may realize they are caught up in more red tape than anticipated.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/medical-group-calls-for-marijuana-research/feed/ 3 http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/former-dea-heads-encourage-obama-to-put-an-end-to-legal-marijuana/ http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/former-dea-heads-encourage-obama-to-put-an-end-to-legal-marijuana/#comments Tue, 05 Mar 2013 14:53:51 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4004 Eight former DEA chiefs have issued a joint statement encouraging the Obama administration to nullify Colorado's Amendment 64 and Washington's I-502, both of which legalize the use, purchase, and possession of marijuana by individuals age 21 and older. The former chiefs involved include Robert Bonner, Thomas Constantine, John Bartels, Francis  Mullen, Asa Hutchinson, Peter Besinger, John Lawn, and Donnie Marshall.  They issued the statement through Save Our Society From Drugs, a national group that is lobbying against marijuana legalization. The statement suggested that the Obama administration has waited too long to take action on the legalized marijuana programs.  The former DEA heads believe the appropriate action is to immediately sue the states to force them to stop the legalization programs from being implemented. While these two states have opted to legalize marijuana, some of the former DEA chiefs believe that marijuana's illegal status under federal law is non-negotiable.  Peter Besinger explained, "If they don't act now, these laws will be fully implemented in a matter of months.  It's a no-brainer.  It is outrageous that a lawsuit hasn't been filed in federal court yet." The DEA has been reviewing both legal marijuana programs since they were passed, and US Attorney General Eric Holder recently told Washington and Colorado that an answer on the matter would be coming "soon." Holder is scheduled to appear before a US Senate judiciary committee hearing on Wednesday.  The former DEA chiefs are pushing senators to question Holder on marijuana legalization.   [Source]]]> Eight former DEA chiefs have issued a joint statement encouraging the Obama administration to nullify Colorado's Amendment 64 and Washington's I-502, both of which legalize the use, purchase, and possession of marijuana by individuals age 21 and older. The former chiefs involved include Robert Bonner, Thomas Constantine, John Bartels, Francis  Mullen, Asa Hutchinson, Peter Besinger, John Lawn, and Donnie Marshall.  They issued the statement through Save Our Society From Drugs, a national group that is lobbying against marijuana legalization. The statement suggested that the Obama administration has waited too long to take action on the legalized marijuana programs.  The former DEA heads believe the appropriate action is to immediately sue the states to force them to stop the legalization programs from being implemented. While these two states have opted to legalize marijuana, some of the former DEA chiefs believe that marijuana's illegal status under federal law is non-negotiable.  Peter Besinger explained, "If they don't act now, these laws will be fully implemented in a matter of months.  It's a no-brainer.  It is outrageous that a lawsuit hasn't been filed in federal court yet." The DEA has been reviewing both legal marijuana programs since they were passed, and US Attorney General Eric Holder recently told Washington and Colorado that an answer on the matter would be coming "soon." Holder is scheduled to appear before a US Senate judiciary committee hearing on Wednesday.  The former DEA chiefs are pushing senators to question Holder on marijuana legalization.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/former-dea-heads-encourage-obama-to-put-an-end-to-legal-marijuana/feed/ 18 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/dea-raids-three-medical-marijuana-collectives-in-san-bernardino/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/dea-raids-three-medical-marijuana-collectives-in-san-bernardino/#comments Thu, 07 Feb 2013 15:51:52 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3780 In addition to the three warrants served at the Kush Concepts locations, a warrant was also served at a home in the city.  A DEA Spokeswoman told the press, "The search warrants were all served simultaneously without incident.  Once the evidence is processed the US Attorney's office will make the final decision if any criminal charges will be filed against Kush Concepts." Police raided Kush Concepts East around 10:45 am.  During the raid, they escorted a half dozen people out of the collective and off the premises.  At Kush concepts West, two police officers could be seen standing guard outside the collective while DEA agents served the search warrant inside. The dispensaries were targeted, according to Assistant City Attorney Jolena Grider, because they were attracting crime that was making members of the surrounding communities uncomfortable.  "The crime rate has risen within a one mile radius of these businesses," she explained.  "I think everyone is waiting on the state Supreme Court ruling that would decide how much further we can go in these cases." San Bernardino banned medical marijuana dispensaries in April 2011.  Approximately half have stopped operating, but the rest remain open despite warning letters from City Attorney James F. Penman.   [Source]]]> In addition to the three warrants served at the Kush Concepts locations, a warrant was also served at a home in the city.  A DEA Spokeswoman told the press, "The search warrants were all served simultaneously without incident.  Once the evidence is processed the US Attorney's office will make the final decision if any criminal charges will be filed against Kush Concepts." Police raided Kush Concepts East around 10:45 am.  During the raid, they escorted a half dozen people out of the collective and off the premises.  At Kush concepts West, two police officers could be seen standing guard outside the collective while DEA agents served the search warrant inside. The dispensaries were targeted, according to Assistant City Attorney Jolena Grider, because they were attracting crime that was making members of the surrounding communities uncomfortable.  "The crime rate has risen within a one mile radius of these businesses," she explained.  "I think everyone is waiting on the state Supreme Court ruling that would decide how much further we can go in these cases." San Bernardino banned medical marijuana dispensaries in April 2011.  Approximately half have stopped operating, but the rest remain open despite warning letters from City Attorney James F. Penman.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/dea-raids-three-medical-marijuana-collectives-in-san-bernardino/feed/ 17 http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/new-dea-report-says-marijuana-legalization-encourages-drug-use/ http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/new-dea-report-says-marijuana-legalization-encourages-drug-use/#comments Thu, 24 Jan 2013 15:45:01 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3669 In the section about the challenges that may keep them from reaching their goals, the DEA says, "Keeping marijuana illegal reduces its availability and lessens willingness to use it.  Legalizing marijuana would increase accessibility and encourage promotion and acceptance of drug use." The DEA is essentially saying that marijuana legalization will lead to a higher level of drug abuse in the country. This report has been released only one day after Washington Governor Jay Inslee met with US Attorney General Eric Holder, who allegedly seemed open to the state's legalization plans.  President Obama has said that targeting legal marijuana states is not a priority for him, but Holder has remained mum on the issue.   [Source]]]> In the section about the challenges that may keep them from reaching their goals, the DEA says, "Keeping marijuana illegal reduces its availability and lessens willingness to use it.  Legalizing marijuana would increase accessibility and encourage promotion and acceptance of drug use." The DEA is essentially saying that marijuana legalization will lead to a higher level of drug abuse in the country. This report has been released only one day after Washington Governor Jay Inslee met with US Attorney General Eric Holder, who allegedly seemed open to the state's legalization plans.  President Obama has said that targeting legal marijuana states is not a priority for him, but Holder has remained mum on the issue.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/new-dea-report-says-marijuana-legalization-encourages-drug-use/feed/ 17 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/opening-of-new-medical-marijuana-collectives-stalled-in-oakland/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/opening-of-new-medical-marijuana-collectives-stalled-in-oakland/#comments Mon, 07 Jan 2013 16:08:37 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3531 Almost a year ago, Oakland, CA officials approved the opening of four medical marijuana dispensaries, which would have doubled the number of legal, permitted dispensaries in the city.  Since then, only one has been allowed to open its doors. After federal officials moved in and shut down Harborside Health Center in Oakland by filing a property forfeiture suit against their landlord, other property owners in the city have become less willing to rent to dispensary owners. Arturo Sanchez, the deputy city administrator who oversees Oakland's MMJ collective permitting process, said, "Ever since the US attorney took their hard-line stance on property owners, property owners have been hesitant to lease space.  That was complicated further after the forfeiture action by the US attorney against Harborside." The one dispensary that has been able to open, Blum Oakland, faced outrageous demands from their potential landlords when trying to find a retail space.   One landlord at a proposed site for Blum asked for a $4 million bond, even though the property was only worth $2 million. Landlords' reluctance, coupled with Oakland's restrictions on where collectives can be located, are making it near impossible for any new medical marijuana dispensaries to open in the city. In Oakland, dispensaries must be located at least 600 feet from schools, libraries, and parks, as well as 600 feet from other dispensaries.  They are also banned from residential areas.   [Source]]]> Almost a year ago, Oakland, CA officials approved the opening of four medical marijuana dispensaries, which would have doubled the number of legal, permitted dispensaries in the city.  Since then, only one has been allowed to open its doors. After federal officials moved in and shut down Harborside Health Center in Oakland by filing a property forfeiture suit against their landlord, other property owners in the city have become less willing to rent to dispensary owners. Arturo Sanchez, the deputy city administrator who oversees Oakland's MMJ collective permitting process, said, "Ever since the US attorney took their hard-line stance on property owners, property owners have been hesitant to lease space.  That was complicated further after the forfeiture action by the US attorney against Harborside." The one dispensary that has been able to open, Blum Oakland, faced outrageous demands from their potential landlords when trying to find a retail space.   One landlord at a proposed site for Blum asked for a $4 million bond, even though the property was only worth $2 million. Landlords' reluctance, coupled with Oakland's restrictions on where collectives can be located, are making it near impossible for any new medical marijuana dispensaries to open in the city. In Oakland, dispensaries must be located at least 600 feet from schools, libraries, and parks, as well as 600 feet from other dispensaries.  They are also banned from residential areas.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/opening-of-new-medical-marijuana-collectives-stalled-in-oakland/feed/ 0 http://news.nuggetry.com/southern-california-marijuana/medical-marijuana-collective-suing-doj-and-dea/ http://news.nuggetry.com/southern-california-marijuana/medical-marijuana-collective-suing-doj-and-dea/#comments Wed, 31 Oct 2012 16:10:29 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3055 No Grey Sky, a Los Angeles medical marijuana collective, is suing the Department of Justice, the DEA, and Attorney General Eric Holder after the DEA raided their dispensary earlier this month.  Also named in the suit are Drug Enforcement Administration Administrator Michele Leonhart and the US Attorney for the Central District of California Andre Birotte Jr. The collective argues that it has been licensed by California to dispense marijuana to patients, and that Holder is acting "in excess of the government's authority granted by the Controlled Substances Act" by threatening to close the collective.  No Grey Sky has been in full compliance with California's medical marijuana law. In 2007, Barack Obama stated that he would not have the DOJ prosecuting and raiding medical marijuana providers and patients.  No Grey Sky believes that, based on the president's statement, they should have been left alone because they were fully following state laws. The complaint states that the Department of Justice began pursuing a "de facto ban on the collective and cooperative cultivation and distribution," when they started raiding collectives in 2010, which demonstrated a flip from Obama's 2007 statements. The complaint continues, "Plaintiff relied on those statements and the DOJ's policy of non-enforcement of conflicting federal law to support the growth of a local industry that is considered a national model for safe access.  Now, over five years later, the federal government is attempting to act beyond its authority in seeking forfeiture of property connected with the plaintiff's dispensary." Shutting down No Grey Sky will cause the elderly and sick to not be able to safely access their medicine, according to the lawsuit.  No Grey Sky is represented by Beverly Hills attorney Barry Fischer.   [Source]  ]]> No Grey Sky, a Los Angeles medical marijuana collective, is suing the Department of Justice, the DEA, and Attorney General Eric Holder after the DEA raided their dispensary earlier this month.  Also named in the suit are Drug Enforcement Administration Administrator Michele Leonhart and the US Attorney for the Central District of California Andre Birotte Jr. The collective argues that it has been licensed by California to dispense marijuana to patients, and that Holder is acting "in excess of the government's authority granted by the Controlled Substances Act" by threatening to close the collective.  No Grey Sky has been in full compliance with California's medical marijuana law. In 2007, Barack Obama stated that he would not have the DOJ prosecuting and raiding medical marijuana providers and patients.  No Grey Sky believes that, based on the president's statement, they should have been left alone because they were fully following state laws. The complaint states that the Department of Justice began pursuing a "de facto ban on the collective and cooperative cultivation and distribution," when they started raiding collectives in 2010, which demonstrated a flip from Obama's 2007 statements. The complaint continues, "Plaintiff relied on those statements and the DOJ's policy of non-enforcement of conflicting federal law to support the growth of a local industry that is considered a national model for safe access.  Now, over five years later, the federal government is attempting to act beyond its authority in seeking forfeiture of property connected with the plaintiff's dispensary." Shutting down No Grey Sky will cause the elderly and sick to not be able to safely access their medicine, according to the lawsuit.  No Grey Sky is represented by Beverly Hills attorney Barry Fischer.   [Source]  ]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/southern-california-marijuana/medical-marijuana-collective-suing-doj-and-dea/feed/ 11 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/long-beach-police-and-dea-raid-7-dispensaries/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/long-beach-police-and-dea-raid-7-dispensaries/#comments Thu, 11 Oct 2012 17:15:49 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=2930 On Wednesday, Long Beach, CA police worked in conjunction with the DEA to raid seven medical marijuana collectives.  Over 40 arrests were made during the raids. Police released limited details, but told the press that a raid that started at 1 PM targeted two locations that the Fire Department had deemed uninhabitable, and another two locations that were being used to grow marijuana. 54-year-old medical marijuana patient Daniel Palafox was at one of the raided collectives, according to the Long Beach Press Telegram.  Palafox, who uses medical marijuana to manage pain associated with torn ligaments, said he was detained with employees of the collective for 30 to 40 minutes before being let go.  Police did not allow him to take his medicine with him. Medical marijuana collectives have faced a significant amount of push back in Long Beach, where a ban from the city went into effect in August.   [Source]]]> On Wednesday, Long Beach, CA police worked in conjunction with the DEA to raid seven medical marijuana collectives.  Over 40 arrests were made during the raids. Police released limited details, but told the press that a raid that started at 1 PM targeted two locations that the Fire Department had deemed uninhabitable, and another two locations that were being used to grow marijuana. 54-year-old medical marijuana patient Daniel Palafox was at one of the raided collectives, according to the Long Beach Press Telegram.  Palafox, who uses medical marijuana to manage pain associated with torn ligaments, said he was detained with employees of the collective for 30 to 40 minutes before being let go.  Police did not allow him to take his medicine with him. Medical marijuana collectives have faced a significant amount of push back in Long Beach, where a ban from the city went into effect in August.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/long-beach-police-and-dea-raid-7-dispensaries/feed/ 11 http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-activism/medical-marijuana-activists-to-protest-obama-tonight-in-san-francisco/ http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-activism/medical-marijuana-activists-to-protest-obama-tonight-in-san-francisco/#comments Mon, 08 Oct 2012 15:55:59 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=2906 Tonight, Monday October 8th, President Barack Obama will be in San Francisco to hold a fundraiser for his re-election campaign.  Aside from the guests who will be paying $20,000 per plate, marijuana activists will also be present to protest the Obama Administration's actions against medical marijuana collectives in California, particularly the Bay area. Americans for Safe Access and California NORML are organizing the protest.  The organizations are dissatisfied with how the Obama Administration has handled the issue of medical marijuana in the Golden State.  Federal officials and the DEA have taken action against hundreds of medical marijuana businesses in California over the course of the past year, with some of the most notable being Oaksterdam University and Harborside Health Center, both located in Northern California. Four years ago when Obama was vying for the presidency, he explained that he would leave medical marijuana alone.  However, actions speak louder than words, and with all of the actions against the medical marijuana industry, Obama's intentions have become clear. ASA director Steph Sherer said of Obama, "Over the course of his presidency, California's medical cannabis industry has come under unprecedented attack.  Countless dispensaries have been closed or threatened by federal pressure.  It is of paramount importance that we as a movement do not let this injustice go unanswered." Anyone who wishes to protest is encouraged to join.  Activists from ASA and NORML California will congregate on the corner of Grove and Larkin outside of Bill Graham Auditorium in San Fransisco at 4:30 PM.   [Source] spirit of america / Shutterstock.com]]> Tonight, Monday October 8th, President Barack Obama will be in San Francisco to hold a fundraiser for his re-election campaign.  Aside from the guests who will be paying $20,000 per plate, marijuana activists will also be present to protest the Obama Administration's actions against medical marijuana collectives in California, particularly the Bay area. Americans for Safe Access and California NORML are organizing the protest.  The organizations are dissatisfied with how the Obama Administration has handled the issue of medical marijuana in the Golden State.  Federal officials and the DEA have taken action against hundreds of medical marijuana businesses in California over the course of the past year, with some of the most notable being Oaksterdam University and Harborside Health Center, both located in Northern California. Four years ago when Obama was vying for the presidency, he explained that he would leave medical marijuana alone.  However, actions speak louder than words, and with all of the actions against the medical marijuana industry, Obama's intentions have become clear. ASA director Steph Sherer said of Obama, "Over the course of his presidency, California's medical cannabis industry has come under unprecedented attack.  Countless dispensaries have been closed or threatened by federal pressure.  It is of paramount importance that we as a movement do not let this injustice go unanswered." Anyone who wishes to protest is encouraged to join.  Activists from ASA and NORML California will congregate on the corner of Grove and Larkin outside of Bill Graham Auditorium in San Fransisco at 4:30 PM.   [Source] spirit of america / Shutterstock.com]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-activism/medical-marijuana-activists-to-protest-obama-tonight-in-san-francisco/feed/ 4 http://news.nuggetry.com/southern-california-marijuana/feds-launch-action-against-71-medical-marijuana-dispensaries-in-los-angeles-county/ http://news.nuggetry.com/southern-california-marijuana/feds-launch-action-against-71-medical-marijuana-dispensaries-in-los-angeles-county/#comments Tue, 25 Sep 2012 22:56:18 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=2822 Today, Tuesday September 25th, federal authorities took legal action against 74 medical marijuana collectives in Los Angeles County, California. Closure warning letters were sent to 68 dispensaries, and forfeiture lawsuits were filed against three properties that house collectives.  Additionally, three collectives were served search warrants. Most of the collectives that were targeted were in downtown LA, Huntington Park, and Eagle Rock. The actions were carried out by federal officials who were working with local law enforcement, including the LAPD. US Attorney Andrew Birotte Jr. released a statement which said, "Over the past several years, we have seen an explosion of commercial marijuana stores -- an explosion that is being driven by the massive profits associated with marijuana distribution.  As today's operations make clear, the sale and distribution of marijuana violates federal law, and we intend to enforce the law.  Even those stores not targeted today should understand that they cannot continue to profit in violation of the law." Earlier this month, medical marijuana advocates in Los Angeles collected enough signatures to put a ban on dispensaries on hold.  Los Angeles officials spoke out, stating that they could move forward with banning collectives with or without the official ordinance in place.  At this point, it is clear that  the DEA has no qualms about stepping in and making the decision for the city.   [Source]]]> Today, Tuesday September 25th, federal authorities took legal action against 74 medical marijuana collectives in Los Angeles County, California. Closure warning letters were sent to 68 dispensaries, and forfeiture lawsuits were filed against three properties that house collectives.  Additionally, three collectives were served search warrants. Most of the collectives that were targeted were in downtown LA, Huntington Park, and Eagle Rock. The actions were carried out by federal officials who were working with local law enforcement, including the LAPD. US Attorney Andrew Birotte Jr. released a statement which said, "Over the past several years, we have seen an explosion of commercial marijuana stores -- an explosion that is being driven by the massive profits associated with marijuana distribution.  As today's operations make clear, the sale and distribution of marijuana violates federal law, and we intend to enforce the law.  Even those stores not targeted today should understand that they cannot continue to profit in violation of the law." Earlier this month, medical marijuana advocates in Los Angeles collected enough signatures to put a ban on dispensaries on hold.  Los Angeles officials spoke out, stating that they could move forward with banning collectives with or without the official ordinance in place.  At this point, it is clear that  the DEA has no qualms about stepping in and making the decision for the city.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/southern-california-marijuana/feds-launch-action-against-71-medical-marijuana-dispensaries-in-los-angeles-county/feed/ 17 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/feds-targeting-harborside-health-center/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/feds-targeting-harborside-health-center/#comments Mon, 16 Jul 2012 18:13:55 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=2352 On Tuesday, July 10th, copies of the federal complaint for forfeiture were taped to the the front doors of both dispensaries and alleged that they were "operating in violation of federal law." Harborside Health Center (HHC) was co-founded by activist Steve DeAngelo and is thought to be the most high profile medical marijuana dispensary operation in the state. HHC was even the subject of the reality show "Weed Wars" last year. DeAngelo said Wednesday that he would fight the actions taken by the Justice Department "openly and in public" and said he would strongly resist any attempt of landlords to evict HHC after receiving the Federal complaint. Last month, Attorney General Eric Holder told the House Judiciary Committee that his federal agents were only targeting large-scale growers and dispensaries. In her statement released Wednesday, U.S. attorney for Northern California, Melinda Haag, suggested that "superstores such as Harborside" fit that bill. She went on to say that, "the larger the operation, the greater the likelihood that there will be abuse of the state's medical marijuana laws." Harborside Health Center has often been lauded as the model for compliance. Activists point to the fact that HHC's main facility in Oakland not only is permitted but complies with the strict regulations of the city. Nandy Nadel of the Oakland City Council and vice mayor said in a statement, "It is most unjust to our citizen patients and distributors who have followed local guidelines to be harassed and treated as criminals by federal officials."  ]]> On Tuesday, July 10th, copies of the federal complaint for forfeiture were taped to the the front doors of both dispensaries and alleged that they were "operating in violation of federal law." Harborside Health Center (HHC) was co-founded by activist Steve DeAngelo and is thought to be the most high profile medical marijuana dispensary operation in the state. HHC was even the subject of the reality show "Weed Wars" last year. DeAngelo said Wednesday that he would fight the actions taken by the Justice Department "openly and in public" and said he would strongly resist any attempt of landlords to evict HHC after receiving the Federal complaint. Last month, Attorney General Eric Holder told the House Judiciary Committee that his federal agents were only targeting large-scale growers and dispensaries. In her statement released Wednesday, U.S. attorney for Northern California, Melinda Haag, suggested that "superstores such as Harborside" fit that bill. She went on to say that, "the larger the operation, the greater the likelihood that there will be abuse of the state's medical marijuana laws." Harborside Health Center has often been lauded as the model for compliance. Activists point to the fact that HHC's main facility in Oakland not only is permitted but complies with the strict regulations of the city. Nandy Nadel of the Oakland City Council and vice mayor said in a statement, "It is most unjust to our citizen patients and distributors who have followed local guidelines to be harassed and treated as criminals by federal officials."  ]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/feds-targeting-harborside-health-center/feed/ 15 http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/congressmen-question-head-of-dea-on-dangers-of-marijuana/ http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/congressmen-question-head-of-dea-on-dangers-of-marijuana/#comments Fri, 22 Jun 2012 19:28:31 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=2201 Both Polis and Cohen are in favor of medical marijuana legalization.  Their questions were about the dangers of marijuana in comparison to the other drugs it is grouped with as a Schedule I drug, such as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Leonhart blatantly dodged every question, which led the Representatives to become frustrated and fiery in their interaction. Below is a transcript of the conversations between Cohen, Polis, and Leonhart. Polis: Is crack worse for a person than marijuana? Leonhart: I believe all illegal drugs are bad. Polis: Is methamphetamine worse for somebody's health than marijuana? Leonhart: I don't think any illegal drug is good. Polis: (Slightly cutting off Leonhart) Is heroin worse for someone's health than marijuana? Leonhart: Again, all drugs... Polis: (Cutting off Leonhart) It's either 'yes,' 'no,' or 'I don't know.'  If you don't know you can look this up.  You should know as the Chief administrator for the Drug Enforcement Agency.  Is heroin worse for someone's health than marijuana? During Rep. Cohen's line of questioning, he received the same string of non-answers. Cohen: Would you agree that marijuana causes less harm to individuals than meth, crack, cocaine, and heroin?" Leonhart: As a former police officer, as a 32-year DEA agent, I can tell you that I think marijuana is an insidious drug. Cohen: That's not the question I asked you ma'am.  Does [marijuana] cause less damage to the American society and to individuals than meth, crack, cocaine, and heroin?  Does it make people have to kill to get their fix? Leonhart: I can tell you that more teens enter treatment for... Cohen: (Cutting off Leonhart) Can you answer my question? Each congressman utilized their allotted time to ask questions, but Leonhart did not provide them with any legitimate answers during that amount of time.  Leonhart's vague responses to simple and legitimate questions about the dangers of marijuana show her lack of a valid argument for the illegality of marijuana, or why it should be classified as a Schedule I drug.   [Source]]]> Both Polis and Cohen are in favor of medical marijuana legalization.  Their questions were about the dangers of marijuana in comparison to the other drugs it is grouped with as a Schedule I drug, such as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Leonhart blatantly dodged every question, which led the Representatives to become frustrated and fiery in their interaction. Below is a transcript of the conversations between Cohen, Polis, and Leonhart. Polis: Is crack worse for a person than marijuana? Leonhart: I believe all illegal drugs are bad. Polis: Is methamphetamine worse for somebody's health than marijuana? Leonhart: I don't think any illegal drug is good. Polis: (Slightly cutting off Leonhart) Is heroin worse for someone's health than marijuana? Leonhart: Again, all drugs... Polis: (Cutting off Leonhart) It's either 'yes,' 'no,' or 'I don't know.'  If you don't know you can look this up.  You should know as the Chief administrator for the Drug Enforcement Agency.  Is heroin worse for someone's health than marijuana? During Rep. Cohen's line of questioning, he received the same string of non-answers. Cohen: Would you agree that marijuana causes less harm to individuals than meth, crack, cocaine, and heroin?" Leonhart: As a former police officer, as a 32-year DEA agent, I can tell you that I think marijuana is an insidious drug. Cohen: That's not the question I asked you ma'am.  Does [marijuana] cause less damage to the American society and to individuals than meth, crack, cocaine, and heroin?  Does it make people have to kill to get their fix? Leonhart: I can tell you that more teens enter treatment for... Cohen: (Cutting off Leonhart) Can you answer my question? Each congressman utilized their allotted time to ask questions, but Leonhart did not provide them with any legitimate answers during that amount of time.  Leonhart's vague responses to simple and legitimate questions about the dangers of marijuana show her lack of a valid argument for the illegality of marijuana, or why it should be classified as a Schedule I drug.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/medical-marijuana/congressmen-question-head-of-dea-on-dangers-of-marijuana/feed/ 14