Medical Marijuana Dispensary Owner Back In Court

INDIO – It’s round two for Stacy Hochanadel.

He plead not guilty to illegally operating a Palm Desert medical marijuana dispensary in 2006.

He faces felony possession and felony sales charges.

Judge David Downing dismissed the case in 2008 citing lack of evidence.

But last summer an appellate panel ruled there was enough evidence to support a search warrant.

Now he’s back in court.

The case picks up where it left off, this time with a different judge.

“He was then and still is and continues to operate within the confines of the medical marijuana laws. He operates a lawful collective, co-operative,” says Hochanadel’s attorney, Ulrich McNulty.

Hochanadel’s business “Cannahelp” is one of two medical marijuana dispensaries approved by the Palm Springs City Council earlier this year.

He’s hoping to open sometime this week.

He’s still working to make sure his business meets code.

The Palm Springs City Attorney says the council knew about the, then former, court case when they choose Hochanadel’s business.

The City Attorney says they have no concern with Cannahelp moving forward.

“Their wasn’t really much of a leg to stand on then so I’m not concerned about going in front of a jury of my peers. I’ve kinda wanted to get this process over with the past 3 years anyway,” says Hochanadel.

The Riverside County District Attorney’s office says Hochanadel is using sick people as a cover to illegally deal drugs.

He’s due back in court March 8th.