Controversial pastor and dispensary owner Craig X Rubin says L.A. police are targeting activists who run medijuana shops. The latest raid of the Royal Temple of Zion Rasta ministry netted three volunteers and less than a pound of pot on Aug. 20.

The Royal Temple of Zion at 2415 Eads St. in Echo Park, owned by Patrick Duff, was raided, police say, because the shop did not have a hardship permit.

A week earlier, on Aug. 12, the DEA, state and local authorities apprehended Jeff Joseph, who owns Organica in Venice and Overland Gardens in West Los Angeles. "They say Jeff didn't pay his taxes," Rubin explains. "Jeff's been a pot activist for 20 years. They're forcing us to spend money on lawyers."

When Duff attempted to reopen the Royal Temple today, police threatened him and he closed the shop until further notice.

Rubin's 420 Temple was raided in 2006. He currently owns Beverly Hills Green Cross and minsters at the Family Church. "I have an interest in protecting Jeff's church," Rubin adds. "They seem to be particularly picking out people who apply for hardships who speak out."

Craig X photo by Todd McCormick

Also see:

Craig X for Mayor
More Marijuana News
CelebStoner News