Friday, January 11, 2013

Marijuana- FAQ

On January 8th, 2013 at approximately 5:20 p.m. Transit Police officers assigned to Area 3 were on patrol at JFK/UMass MBTA station when they detected a strong odor of burnt marijuana. The officers proceeded in the direction of the distinguishable scent (platform-Braintree end) and observed two males who appeared to have just smoked a marijuana cigarette. Officers approached the males to further investigate.  Both parties admitted to indulging in a marijuana cigarette and produced a clear baggie containing marijuana. One of the males, later identified as Kenneth Wade, 19, of Dorchester, was discovered to have an active warrant for his arrest issued out of West Roxbury District Court for the charge of Affray. Wade was taken into custody on the warrant and transported to Transit Police HQ for the booking process.  The marijuana was confiscated and Wade's companion was issued a citation for possession of Marijuana and released.

Frequently Asked Questions TPD receive regarding Marijuana;
Q) I thought marijuana was legal, why did I receive a "ticket" ?
In 2008, Massachusetts voters changed the law concerning marijuana, decriminalizing possession of less than one ounce. They did not go so far as to legalize the former crime, however,  possession of a small quantity still carries a potential civil fine of 100.00 dollars.

 Q) Is it okay to smoke a "joint" while waiting on the platform for my train ?
No.

Q) Is it okay to smoke a "joint" while riding on the bus with my friends?
No.

Q) I have a warrant for my arrest and just wanted to smoke a "little weed" while riding my train. My warrant had nothing to do with my marijuana, what's the problem? .
If you have a warrant out for your arrest and DO NOT want to go to jail you should (a) not utilize the MBTA, if you ignore this suggestion (b) when entering our stations and buses pay your fare (c) do not roll a joint, pack a bong or any other means of inhaling cannabis while on the T and lastly DO NOT commit crime or disorder within the system which would draw attention to yourself

Q) I met my friend at Downtown Crossing and sold him a "bag of weed" while on the platform. The weight was much less then an ounce. Why did I get arrested ?
Massachusetts voters decided to decriminalize possession of an ounce or less only. Distribution of marijuana in any amount, whether for money or not, is still a criminal offense.

Stay tuned more FAQ .....

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