Tom and Barbara Rowland have scored a large victory for themselves and a small victory for us.

Several years ago police discovered 35 marijuana plants growing on Tom and Barbara rural property, down in the swamp. The plants were closer to the road than to their house.

They were charged with cultivation, their home and property seized. During discovery the judge and prosecutor agreed there was no evidence to support the charges. The evidence reported to obtain the original search warrant was extremly inconsistent with the evidence that was collected during the raid. All charges were dropped. The government however proceeded with the forfeiture of their home and property.

For two years the Rowlands refused to roll over. No settlement, except the complete return of all property was acceptable.

In September of 95, the feds dropped all forfeiture actions against the Rowlands. Their lawyer was very good and preferred to put no time in the case unless something needed to be done. It became a stalemate.

Must be an election year coming up.

Congratulations Tom and Barbara Rowland.