Detroit’s cider mill scores legal win, but the fight isn’t over yet

The only cider mill in Detroit has won a court battle against the city, but a second court case looms.

A jury on Friday acquitted Leandra King, a farmer at Detroit Farm and Cider, of all criminal charges for owning livestock without a proper permit on her five-acre farm.

“What was exposed today is the political vendetta that was driving this whole case,” King said in a phone interview with Michigan Capitol Confidential.

In 2021, King said, the local government started revoking her permits for the farm, which housed 130 fruit trees, a youth equestrian program and livestock. The farm remains shut down.

The city of Detroit wants the farm to comply with the law, Corporation Counsel Conrad Mallett told CapCon in an email.

“Currently, they still have multiple violations of the city code including but not limited to: a new structure, plumbing, electrical without the proper permits, inspections, or approvals. We look forward to them being in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances.”

The city plans to press compliance claims in civil court on Wednesday. The farm has harbored wild animals, operated a greenhouse without a permit, and used the property illegally, the city claims in a court document.

“Further, the following conditions at the Subject Properties are a threat to the public health and safety of the City of Detroit residents living near the surrounding property,” the emergency motion for a temporary restraining order says.

The city seeks a cease-and-desist order against what it calls “illegal use and operation of an illegal urban farm.” It also seeks a ruling to allow city officials to inspect the property within seven days.