Pubdate: Fri, 9 May 2008
Source: Kootenay Western Star (CN BC)
Copyright: 2008 Kootenay Western Star
Contact:  http://www.kootenaywesternstar.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4235
Author: Darryl Pollock
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/topic/holy+smoke

HOLY SMOKE TRIAL DRAWS TO A CLOSE

Judge Delays Decision Until Sept. 26 to Allow Written Submissions

The last of the evidence was heard in the Holy Smoke trial last week, 
as the judge deciding to present his final decision at 9 a.m. on Sept. 26.

He is allowing time to review written submissions made by the prosecuted.

"I think we did a pretty good job entering the evidence," said Paul 
DeFelice, one of the people being charged in the case.

Originally opened in 1996, Holy Smoke was intended to be more of a 
political action than a retail venture.

DeFelice explained he was happy with the way the trial went because 
he said the prosecuted were never challenged and the defendants were 
able to present all the evidence they wanted, with the court deciding 
later if it was relevant.

"I think we did the best we could with our resources," DeFelice said.

Originally, the judge was set to make his decision on Friday, May 2, 
but changed his mind.

"That's good news for us because he was saying he was going to rule 
on Friday, which wouldn't be good because it's like his mind was 
already made up," said DeFelice.

DeFelice and the rest of the Holy Smoke team are hoping to sway the 
judges decision with their written submissions, which have a set 
timeline of submission.

"We have had positive coverage.

"If nothing else, the word got out about how safe cannabis can be," he said.

DeFelice, Alan Middlemiss, Kelsey Stratas and Akka Annis were charged 
with trafficking and drug possession. 
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake