September 1, 2001
Cops Still Surround Mich. Property
By Associated Press
VANDALIA, Mich. -- A news helicopter was hit by a bullet during a standoff
between police and the owner of a campground who was due to appear in court
on drug and weapons charges.
Police still had the property surrounded Saturday, a day after the shot was
fired.
The bullet tore through the helicopter's rear stabilizer, but the helicopter
was able to land safely and no injuries were reported, reported the Indiana
television station operating the aircraft.
Sheriff's deputies went to the Rainbow Farm Campground about noon Friday
after neighbors reported the owner, Grover T. Crosslin, 46, was burning
buildings on the property in southwest Michigan.
Deputies evacuated six houses and watched as three buildings burned. Gunfire
came from the campground and the helicopter from WNDU-TV of South Bend,
Ind., was hit, Cass County Sheriff Joseph Underwood said.
"We're trying to set up some negotiations right now, to get a phone line in
and do some talking," Underwood told The Truth newspaper of Elkhart, Ind.
"Obviously, (Crosslin) is in an agitated state at this time."
Calls to Rainbow Farm on Saturday met with busy signals.
Crosslin's sister, Shirley DeWeese, of Elkhart, Ind. said her brother wanted
to be left alone.
"I can't talk to him ... he was very angry with the government and the way
they have done things," DeWeese told the South Bend (Ind.) Tribune. "I just
hope he remains cool and calm. He doesn't want all the violence."
Authorities arrested Crosslin and others on drug charges in May after a long
investigation into allegation of marijuana use at the campground and its
annual festivals, Underwood said. A Hemp Fest there typically draws
thousands of visitors
A statement on Rainbow Farm's Web site says it "supports the medical,
spiritual and responsible recreational uses of marijuana for a more sane and
compassionate America."
Crosslin was charged with felony possession of a firearm, growing marijuana
and maintaining a drug house.
On Friday, he was facing a $150,000 bond revocation hearing because police
believed he was violating the terms of his release. The property is also the
target of civil forfeiture proceedings.
"I assume he's upset about the court hearing," Underwood said.
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