Just as I suspected. Anyone else who believes this exaggerated hokum story should do a Google search and read something other than the hysterical web “reporting”, which in this case is far, far worse than anything cooked-up by the MSM.
For example, the following from http://www.cleveland.com/lorain/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/lorain/1228901590175700.xml&coll=2 :
The Plain Dealer
‘Raid’ at Manna Storehouse organic food co-op disputed by Lorain County Sheriff’s Office
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Patrick O’Donnell
Plain Dealer Reporter
[snip]
Openly proclaiming it is not licensed and does not plan to obtain a license, Manna has members affirm that they “take full responsibility for their own health, health choices, food choices and food quality.”
County officials say the business cannot operate that way.
Assistant County Prosecutor Scott Serazin said any business that sells perishable foods must be licensed and follow regulations covering those who store and supply food. There is no exception in the law for a co-op, Serazin said, and Manna cannot ask customers to waive safety regulations
The Lorain County Health Department tried to inspect the Storehouse in November 2007 but the family told inspectors to leave the property. Jacqueline Stowers wrote the department the next month that Manna does not need a license and that the inspection was an attempt to “cunningly coerce unlawful entry into our house and private property.”
In September, the county asked the Ohio Department of Agriculture for assistance, and an agent purchased eggs at the store. When agents learned of a possible delivery of meat, they obtained a warrant to search for evidence of the business’s activities.
Jacqueline and John Stowers, owners of the Manna Storehouse, 43565 SR 303, were inspected in November 2007 by the Lorain County General Health District, according to court records.
The Plain Dealer says not but court records say it was inspected. Also at my link are comments after the story.