On Friday, April 22, a reggae extravaganza featuring Rocker-T, Soul Medic and R-evolution was held at the Vet's Hall (846 Front St.) from 8:00 pm to midnight. The evening of music, food and raffle drawings was a fundraiser for the legal defense of Roger Mentch, a medical marijuana provider and caregiver who currently faces up to seven years imprisonment for possessing 1 1/2 oz. of marijuana. (.pdf flyer for 4/22/05 benefit)

On June 6, 2003, the home of Roger Mentch was raided by the Santa Cruz County Sheriffs drug task force. A warrant was issued because the money smelled funny, Monterey Bank stated. At 7:30am guns were drawn on Mr. Mentch as well as his girlfriend and 8 year old daughter.

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