Search of ‘Opium’ author’s home based on writings

WASHINGTON–Jim Hogshire, an author and freelance writer, was arrested and charged with possession of opium poppies in early March 1996 based on a warrant obtained largely because he had written a book about opium.

According to Hogshire and other media accounts, a search of his apartment turned up ten “bunches” of dried poppies, which he says were bought from a flower shop, and several copies of his book, “Opium for the Masses.” Hogshire said that the arresting officer asked him, “With what you write, weren’t you expecting this?”

The search warrant on Hogshire’s apartment was granted partially on the strength of a letter by an informant as well as a description of Hogshire’s book, according to documents filed by the prosecutor’s office.

Although it is legal to buy, sell or possess opium poppy seeds, federal law makes it illegal to knowingly possess opium poppies with the intent to distribute them or use them as a drug.

“Opium for the Masses” shows, among other things, how to produce opiates from legally available seeds or from poppy seedpods easily obtainable at florists and craft shops. Hogshire is the author of several books including “Sell Yourself to Science” and “You Are Going to Prison.” He also published a “zine” called Pills-a-go-go. (U.S. v. Hogshire; Media Counsel: Tim Ford, Seattle)