Features

Lawyers argue for return of pot to couple

The Associated Press
Tuesday November 05, 2002

SAN JOSE — The Santa Cruz couple who ran a medical marijuana farm raided by federal agents in September argued Monday that their pot plants, as well as confiscated videos and photo albums, should be returned to them. 

Federal prosecutors said they need the seized items as evidence. 

U.S. District Judge Jeremy Fogel said he would make a ruling in a few weeks. 

Drug Enforcement Administration agents arrested Valerie and Michael Corral and cut down the 130 plants they grew for the Wo/Men’s Alliance for Medical Marijuana. 

Valerie Corral said the alliance continues to grow medical marijuana at a secret location. 

State law and city and county ordinances say marijuana is legal if recommended by a doctor, but under federal law, it is illegal as a medicine or a recreational drug. 

Nearly two weeks after the raid, Michael Corral helped distribute medical marijuana to people gathered outside City Hall. Several city leaders attended to show their support of medical marijuana, and no law enforcement was present.