GEM News 
The two-year federal investigation included intercepted telephone converstaions and the seizure of 2,296 marijuana plants, nine weapons, 33 pounds of processed marijuana, more than $21,000 cash and four properties.
Christie has always been open – at least in general terms – about the activity at the THC-Ministry. In March, he spoke with Big Island Video News, after feds raided his home and the ministry. At the time, Christie thought the raid would lead to exoneration and legitimacy for his organization.
At a press conference held Friday in Honolulu, the U.S. Attorney Florence Nakaku joined Drug Enforcemnt Administration agents to give details on the arrests.
Nakaku called Christie’s organization a “large scale business” and said the THC Ministry went through half a pound of marijuana a day and served about 60 to 70 customers a day.
Hawaii state law does allow certified individuals to possess a certain amount of marijuana for medical purposes, but authorities say no law protects those who use marijuana for religious purposes.
“It’s still a violation of the federal controlled-substance act, and is therefore a violation of federal drug laws, which DEA enforces,” said Robin Dinlocker, head of Honolulu’s DEA office.
Trials for the 14 defendants are set for September 8.
The investigation was conducted by a joint team of Drug Enforcement Agency, the Hawaii County Police Department, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Postal Inspection Service, and Hawaii High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Marshals Service, the Coast Guard, the State of Hawaii Narcotics Enforcement Division, the State Department of Public Safety and the Hawaii National Guard Counter Drug Unit.
Keoki Kerr and KITV news contributed to this report. Footage also provided by Daryl Lee.
