The Clarkston City Council has voted unanimously to approve the most liberal marijuana ordinance in the state, reducing fine from up to $1,000 to $75 for possessing less than an ounce, and eliminating the possibility of jail time for breaking municipal law. "We just made history," whispered Sharon Ravert, a Dahlonega resident and advocate for marijuana legalization, when she saw the council's seven hands raised in unison on Tuesday. Mayor Ted Terry has argued that drug law enforcement "disproportionately affects lower income communities and communities of color." As the state's hotbed for refugee resettlement, Clarkston is one of the most diverse cities in the state. According to census statistics, the city of 12,000 is nearly 60 percent black and 53.5 percent foreign born. [continues 533 words]
Shots Ring Out For The Second Time In A Week In Jamesville And A Top Police Officer Fears The Worst A top Hamilton police officer says multiple shootings and a community gripped by fear shows the Jamesville neighbourhood has spiralled out of control. Shots rang out early Sunday morning for the second time in a week, leaving the walkways throughout the public housing survey virtually deserted. "We have several shootings and violent incidents and people are very hesitant to come forward. They're obviously afraid," said Staff Sergeant Ron Hayward. [continues 794 words]
