Pubdate: Sun, 29 Dec 2013
Source: Staten Island Advance (NY)
Copyright: 2013 Paul Saryian
Contact:  http://www.silive.com/advance/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/646
Author: Paul Saryian

USE OF MARIJUANA WAS DECRIMINALIZED

Possession of small amounts of marijuana (under 25 grams) was
decriminalized way back in 1977.

Yes, 1977!

The loophole in this 36-year-old law is that if marijuana is possessed
in a public place AND in public view, it is a crime (B-Misdemeanor in
the Penal Law).

My contention is that marijuana laws have increased not decreased
crime.

Now inhale this. In the last 10 years alone, nearly 500,000 New
Yorkers have been arrested and charged with possession of small
amounts of marijuana.

By regulating and taxing marijuana, government agencies could ensure
product safety as well as diminishing the incentives for organized
crime and the ensuing violence that results from turf wars and deals
"gone bad."

I do not condone recreational use of marijuana or any other controlled
substance for that matter - but I am totally against treating someone
like a thug, throwing them in jail, and possibly destroying their
life, self-esteem, or career, simply for mere possession or use of
marijuana.

Most importantly, during my 23-plus years in law enforcement, I've
never seen anyone die of a marijuana overdose. However, I can't say
the same about most other drugs or alcoholic beverages.

PAUL SARYIAN

WEST BRIGHTON 
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