ANAHEIM MAN CHARGED IN INTERNET MARIJUANA CASE

An Anaheim man who ran an Internet business selling marijuana for
medicinal purposes was indicted Friday on federal charges of illegally
distributing the drug in Louisiana.

"This is another example of our expanding effort to pursue individuals
who use computers to conduct illegal activities," U.S. Attorney Eddie
Jordan said.

The attorney for the suspect, Michael David Aronov, acknowledged his
client sent marijuana to two undercover agents. But the lawyer, Eric
Shevin, said the agents claimed to have severe health problems.

"My sense is that Michael responded to a sense of moral righteousness
rather than legal judgment," Shevin said. "He at no time possessed any
criminal intent. His desire has been and is to help people who are in
need." A grand jury indicted Aronov on seven counts of distribution of
marijuana and one count of advertising a controlled substance for sale
on the Internet.

The marijuana distribution charges are punishable by up to five years
in prison on each count; the other charge carries a maximum four-year
prison term.

Distribution of marijuana for medicinal purposes is illegal in
Louisiana but legal in California for seriously ill people on the
recommendation of doctors.

"All the evidence will show he was only involved in trying to assist
people who had what appeared to be legitimate medical need for serious
illnesses," Shevin said.