California Marijuana Charge Arrests Increasing
In one year from 2006 to 2007, arrested on marijuana charges in California increased from 65,386 to 74,119, a more than 13% increase in a single year. Felony Marijuana offense arrests increased to 16,124 from 13,548 in 2006, an increase of 19%.
Advocates for marijuana law reform and legalization in California will no doubt argue that this increase is clear evidence that enforcement efforts have failed, and it would be difficult to dispute that conclusion. Despite decades of effort to prevent and discourage marijuana use, there is no evidence that criminal marijuana possession laws have reduced demand.
Prohibition of marijuana use has failed on every level. And the cost of fighting a continuous drug war are extraordinary.
California jails are packed with non-violent drug offenders. This results in absurd choices between letting violent offenders out sooner, or building more jails at tremendous taxpayer costs.
California has lead the way on marijuana law reform in many respects, such as lessened penalties for simple possession, and improved medical marijuana laws. But there is a long way to go to get to a point where marijuana laws are truly decriminalized. Marijuana use should be treated in rational manner in accordance with the true costs of and benefits of and endless war.
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If you are facing a marijuana or other criminal drug charge in California courts, please contact our experienced drug defense attorneys for a free case evaluation on the charges you are facing. There is no obligation for our initial consultation and advice.
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