LOS ANGELES - The head of a Inland Empire pot-growing and distribution business, with stores in Moreno Valley, Colton and Upland, was convicted of federal drug charges that mandate he spend at least 10 years in prison.

Aaron Sandusky, 42, of Rancho Cucamonga, founder and owner of G3 Holistic, was convicted at trial of conspiring to grow pot, possessing it and distributing it. He could get up to life in prison when he is sentenced Jan. 7, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Federal law does not allow any kind of marijuana business and it trumps state laws recognizing it as medicine. In October Advertisement

[ Metalography ] 2011, prosecutors warned Sandusky in writing.

Sandusky and five associates were later indicted by a federal grand jury, with the U.S. Attorney's Office alleging they were using California laws that provide for nonprofit groups to grow and distribute pot to people whose doctors have recommended it.

In November 2011, federal agents raided the Upland G3 Holistic store and seized $11,500 in cash.

According to the indictment, G3 Holistic took in $3.3 million during an eight-month period last year. The pot-growing operation was in Ontario.

Sandusky's older brother, Keith, and the other four indicted pleaded guilty before trial and are awaiting sentencing. The trial started Tuesday.