FL: First Marijuana Citations Issued In Broward

Katelyn Baker;3031931 said:

The first marijuana tickets have been issued in Broward.

Ten months after the County Commission passed a law allowing police officers and deputies to treat small-time pot possession as a civil offense punishable by a fine, the Broward Sheriff's Office has begun using it.

The first citation was issued Aug. 7, according to a report by the county human services department. In the month between then and now, 11 citations have been issued, all by BSO.

Nine were issued to people between 18 and 24 years old; two were between 25 and 34. All but two were minorities, either black, Hispanic or "other.''

Broward Mayor Marty Kiar said he was excited to see the law finally being used and benefiting young people and minorities.

"Providing a civil citation in lieu of an arrest for misdemeanor marijuana possession will provide these young adults with opportunities in life that would have been denied to them had they been arrested," he said in a written statement. "I am hopeful that other law enforcement agencies in Broward County will follow Sheriff Scott Israel's lead and utilize this compassionate and important program."

Broward commissioners passed the law in November, saying it would keep young people from having their lives and job prospects ruined by a criminal arrest for possessing a small amount of marijuana, 20 grams or less.

The citation program allows a person to pay a $100 fine, complete community service or opt to engage in a drug treatment or education program, and move on without a criminal record.

Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties also have civil citation laws.

News Moderator: Katelyn Baker 420 MAGAZINE ®
Full Article: First Marijuana Citations Issued In Broward
Author: Brittany Wallman
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Photo Credit: Sun Sentinel
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