DELIBERATIONS BEGIN IN MEDICINAL POT CASE

The federal marijuana case against Ed Rosenthal, the self-described "Guru
of Ganja," concluded Thursday as prosecutors and the defense wrapped up
their cases.

Jurors will begin deliberating today. Rosenthal, who could face a life
sentence if convicted, did not testify.

The case represents the latest clash between state and federal authorities
over the medicinal use of marijuana.

Rosenthal, 58, an author of how-to books and columns on growing marijuana,
says he was growing pot to help the sick, which is legal under a 1996
California law.

But the federal government doesn't recognize the state law and U.S.
District Judge Charles Breyer prohibited Rosenthal and his lawyers from
making that defense.

California and seven other states -- Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii,
Maine, Oregon and Washington -- allow the sick to receive, possess, grow or
smoke marijuana for medical purposes without fear of state prosecution.