Medical Pot Providers Face Conspiracy Charges

Three medical marijuana providers have been arraigned in the first criminal case stemming from a series of federal raids this spring on Montana pot distributors.

Jason Burns, Jesse Leland and Joshua Schultz appeared Wednesday on charges of conspiracy, manufacture of marijuana, distribution of marijuana and money laundering.

All three pleaded not guilty. They have been conditionally released.

Schultz's Natural Medicine of Great Falls and Burns' and Leland's Queen City Caregivers in Helena were among more than two dozen Montana medical marijuana businesses, warehouses and residences raided by federal agents.

The conspiracy and manufacturing charges each carry maximum penalties of 40 years in prison and $5 million fines. Money laundering carries a 20-year prison term and a $500,000 fine.

The distribution charge carries a five-year prison sentence and a $250,000 fine.

Associated Press