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Black Bear Busts Secret Pot Farm
By Debbie Williams Reporter
Published: Thu, June 19, 2008 - 4:42 pm
Debbie Williams
Bruce and Brenda Shoop were arrested in 2006 after an anonymous tip led police to 20 pot plants growing behind their house. The couple don't deny having the marijuana. They say it's an important part of their religion, part of a "true christian religion".
The couple claim to be ordained ministers in the Universal Life Church that considers marijuana the "Tree of Life".
They went back before judge Robert Wilters to try and dismiss the charges against them citing religious freedom. In testimony they said marijuana is a "mandated sacrament" and is required to reach the "spiritual realm".
Prosecutors say this is a religion of convenience that the Shoop's got involved with after their arrest.
Charges were not dismissed. Bruce and Brenda had little to say after the hearing. "We need to get a fair hearing," says Bruce. "This was an unfair hearing."
"It could have gone better," says Brenda as she is taken back to her cell. "But," she says, "there's always trials and tribulations."
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