Katelyn Baker
Well-Known Member
Arizona - Law enforcement officials are warning that Arizona's ballot initiative to legalize recreational marijuana is too lenient on kids who are caught trying to buy pot.
"We would be sending the wrong message to youth," said Bill Montgomery, who is the Maricopa County Attorney.
Under Proposition 205, people under the age of 21 who are caught trying to purchase marijuana would be charged with a petty offense, with a maximum fine of $300, and the possibility of community service.
But under current law, if someone under the age of 21 is caught trying to buy alcohol, that person would be charged with a criminal misdemeanor, with a fine of up to $2,500 and the possibility of a jail sentence.
Montgomery says minors are generally not subject to the maximum fine or sentence. They are offered a diversion program. He says the threat of a more severe sentence gives minors an incentive to stay straight. But a petty offense is more like a parking ticket.
"The maximum fine that can be imposed is $300 and multiple petty offenses mean nothing," said Montgomery.
News Moderator: Katelyn Baker 420 MAGAZINE ®
Full Article: Prop 205 Would Mean A Slap On The Wrist For Underage Marijuana Use
Author: Morgan Loew
Contact: (808) 535-0400
Photo Credit: None Found
Website: KITV 4
"We would be sending the wrong message to youth," said Bill Montgomery, who is the Maricopa County Attorney.
Under Proposition 205, people under the age of 21 who are caught trying to purchase marijuana would be charged with a petty offense, with a maximum fine of $300, and the possibility of community service.
But under current law, if someone under the age of 21 is caught trying to buy alcohol, that person would be charged with a criminal misdemeanor, with a fine of up to $2,500 and the possibility of a jail sentence.
Montgomery says minors are generally not subject to the maximum fine or sentence. They are offered a diversion program. He says the threat of a more severe sentence gives minors an incentive to stay straight. But a petty offense is more like a parking ticket.
"The maximum fine that can be imposed is $300 and multiple petty offenses mean nothing," said Montgomery.
News Moderator: Katelyn Baker 420 MAGAZINE ®
Full Article: Prop 205 Would Mean A Slap On The Wrist For Underage Marijuana Use
Author: Morgan Loew
Contact: (808) 535-0400
Photo Credit: None Found
Website: KITV 4
