Court to explain camera ban in medical pot case

GRAND RAPIDS (AP) -- The Michigan Court of Appeals has some explaining to do. The state Supreme Court wants to know why a three-judge panel in Grand Rapids won't allow a video camera at May 10 arguments in a medical-marijuana case. The court wants an explanation by today. So far, the appeals court's only reason to reject the camera was for the "fair administration of justice." That's not good enough. Eric VanDussen of Traverse City asked the state's highest court to intervene. Michigan judges have discretion to restrict cameras, especially at trials where there may be sensitive testimony or other issues. But the appeals court has no jury, no witnesses and few spectators. The judges who rejected the camera are Joel Hoekstra, Christopher Murray and Michael Kelly. Published: Mon, May 2, 2011