Pubdate: Wed, 08 Aug 2012
Source: Honolulu Star-Advertiser (HI)
Copyright: 2012 Star Advertiser
Contact: 
http://www.staradvertiser.com/info/Star-Advertiser_Letter_to_the_Editor.html
Website: http://www.staradvertiser.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/5154
Author: Ken Kobayashi
Page: B2

POT PREACHER CHRISTIE LOSES BID FOR FREEDOM

Hawaii island marijuana advocate Roger Christie once again has lost a
bid for his release while awaiting trial, scheduled for January, on
federal marijuana possession and distribution charges.

Christie has been in custody for more than two years since his arrest
in July 2010, but U.S. District Judge Leslie Kobayashi noted Tuesday
that he faces three marijuana charges carrying prison terms of five to
40 years, and she said she was concerned about Christie's ability to
follow bail conditions if he is released.

The judge said she realized Christie has been in custody for two
years, but said the delays in bringing the case to trial were based on
a large part by Christie switching lawyers and other requests that
benefited him.

Kobayashi's ruling was the sixth time a federal court has denied
Christie's request for release pending trial.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Kawahara opposed the
release.

Christie's lawyer, Thomas Otake, said his client is a "peaceful" man
who would not reopen his Cannabis Ministry in downtown Hilo if he were
released.

"He's absolutely disappointed," Otake said after the hearing. "He's a
spiritual man, and he really believed he was going home today."

A federal grand jury indicted Christie and 13 others on marijuana
charges.

Christie is accused of leading a major marijuana growing, processing
and distribution ring in 2010 on Hawaii island. His associates are
accused of growing and supplying the cannabis.

Some of Christie's co-defendants have pleaded guilty.
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