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Hawaii island marijuana advocate Roger Christie once again has lost a bid for his release while awaiting trial, scheduled for January, on federal marijuana possession and distribution charges.
Christie has been in custody for more than two years since his arrest in July 2010, but U.S. District Judge Leslie Kobayashi noted Tuesday that he faces three marijuana charges carrying prison terms of five to 40 years, and she said she was concerned about Christie’s ability to follow bail conditions if he is released.
The judge said she realized Christie has been in custody for two years, but said the delays in bringing the case to trial were based on a large part by Christie switching lawyers and other requests that benefited him.
Kobayashi’s ruling was the sixth time a federal court has denied Christie’s request for release pending trial.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Kawahara opposed the release.
Christie’s lawyer, Thomas Otake, said his client is a "peaceful" man who would not reopen his Cannabis Ministry in downtown Hilo if he were released.
"He’s absolutely disappointed," Otake said after the hearing. "He’s a spiritual man, and he really believed he was going home today."
A federal grand jury indicted Christie and 13 others on marijuana charges.
Christie is accused of leading a major marijuana growing, processing and distribution ring in 2010 on Hawaii island. His associates are accused of growing and supplying the cannabis.
Some of Christie’s co-defendants have pleaded guilty.