From: [c--o--n] at [dsmnet.com] (Carl E. Olsen)
Newsgroups: alt.drugs
Subject: California Coptic Trial
Date: Wed, 31 Aug 1994 21:30:58

A member of the Coptic Church was arrested with 40 pounds of marijuana 
several months ago in Riverside, California.  A preliminary hearing was held 
within the past few days.  Two issues make this trial unique.  The first is 
that the defendant, Greg Peck, is admitting that he was distributing the 
marijuana for profit.  The second is that the judge has decided to allow him 
to present a religious defense.  The California Supreme Court has previously 
ruled that sacramental use of peyote is constitutionally protected, whether or 
not the user is a member of the Native American Church.  In re Grady, 61 
Cal.2d 887, 394 P.2d 728, 39 Cal.Rpyr. 912 (1964).  I don't have a case number 
yet, but I will post more information on this case as soon as I receive it.

Carl E. Olsen