NYPD to end low-level marijuana arrests, issue tickets instead

http://rt.com/usa/204207-nypd-mariju...ckets-arrests/

The New York Police Department will no longer arrest people simply for possessing small amounts of marijuana, Commissioner Bill Bratton announced Monday. Instead, individuals will be ticketed and fined.

Beginning on November 19, the new policy will apply to people who are found with 25 grams of cannabis or less. As long as they are not smoking the marijuana, intending to sell it, or have an outstanding warrant for their arrest, police officers can simply issue a civil summons, similar to a parking ticket, and move on.

However, those wanted by police in connection with ongoing investigations, as well as those who fail to produce identification, can still be arrested.

Under the new rules, the first ticket would cost violators $100, while a second one would hike the price up to $250.

?This new policy will reduce unnecessary arrests for minor marijuana possession and put an end to an era where many of young New Yorkers were being arrested and saddled with criminal records for minor violations,? said New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio.

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