DEA uses new tactic against pot clubs

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- California voters approved the use of medical marijuana 10 years ago, but it's still illegal under federal law.

And now, the Drug Enforcement Administration is starting a new crack-down to put pot clubs out of business.

In the past, the DEA relied on raids to shut down medical marijuana clubs. Now it's a letter writing campaign. First it was in Southern California including Los Angeles and San Diego. Now dispensaries in Northern California have been targeted.

Compassionate Care on Church Street was the first medical marijuana dispensary to open in the city years ago. Now it will be the first to close as a result of a new tactic by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

"We've tried to make sure these facilities work for the neighborhoods and the patients and now the federal government says, no, no, no we're really going to step on you and hurt you," said Wayne Justmann from Compassionate Care.

The DEA sent a letter to his landlord and about 80 others in Northern California, notifying them the facilities violate federal law and threatening them with possible criminal prosecution, imprisonment, fines and forfeiture of assets -- including their property.

Patrick Goggin is a lawyer representing two medical cannabis clubs.

"They are scared. They are working to follow local and state laws and these Draconian measures are being taken, threatening harassing by the DEA," said attorney Patrick Goggin.

Compassionate Care closes its doors on Friday. This patient worries that's the tip of the iceberg. We're told other dispensaries are facing eviction proceedings following letters from the DEA.

"They are getting the landlords to do their dirty work for them. I'm not surprised, I would be ashamed if I were a DEA agent right now," said patient Alex Franco.

The head of the DEA's San Francisco Division says: "His agency sent letters to landlord's as a courtesy and that the DEA will continue to work to keep neighborhood communities safe from drugs and the negative ripple effects they cause."

Medical marijuana advocates are now hoping for a political solution from elected officials including San Francisco mayor Gavin Newsom. Newsom would not comment on the DEA's letter writing tactics.

"If you give me an opportunity to read them, I'll be happy to respond," said San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom.

ABC7's Carolyn Tyler: "I've got a letter right here with me."

San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom: "I will take the time to read it at an appropriate place."

An official with the marijuana policy project, a national organization says so far the DEA's action appears to be more bluster than action. No one's property has been seized.

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