DEA Agents Arrest Medical Pot Advocate
A prominent medical marijuana advocate, who once smoked pot on the steps of City Hall to draw attention to his cause, is facing at least five years in prison if found guilty of growing marijuana.
Steven McWilliams, 48, pleaded innocent to federal charges Friday after being arrested by U.S drug enforcement agents. He was later released and pledged to pay a $50,000 bond if he fails to show up for court appearances.
More than two weeks ago, federal agents uprooted 25 marijuana plants from the frontyard of McWilliams’ home.
A Drug Enforcement Administration officer had previously delivered to McWilliams a letter signed by interim U.S. Atty. Carol Lam warning him that he might be arrested if he did not stop growing marijuana.
McWilliams and his partner operate a resource center and help sick and dying people legally obtain the drug under California’s Proposition 215.
The state law conflicts with federal drug statutes, which prohibit the use, possession or cultivation of marijuana.
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