Pubdate: Thu, 30 Mar 2006
Source: Cincinnati Enquirer (OH)
Copyright: 2006 The Cincinnati Enquirer
Contact: http://enquirer.com/editor/letters.html
Website: http://enquirer.com/today/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/86
Author: Dan Klepal, staff writer
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)

CITY OKS JAIL TIME FOR POT

The consequence of getting caught with a joint - or any amount of
marijuana less than 100 grams - just became more serious in Cincinnati.

City Council voted, 6-2, to increase the penalty for possessing a
small amount of marijuana. Under the old law, it was a minor
misdemeanor that brought a ticket and a $100 fine.

As of today, it's a fourth-degree misdemeanor that now means immediate
arrest - along with a maximum penalty of 30 days in jail and a $250
fine. A second offense is now a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable
by a maximum penalty of six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

At four hearings held by City Council, no one spoke in favor of the
law, but dozens spoke out against it - and more would have opposed it
but for fears of admitting they smoke marijuana now, opponents said.

"There are thousands who would like to be here," said Lynne Wilson,
46, of East Price Hill, "but it's against the law."

Two council members, Chris Bortz and Leslie Ghiz, said they struggled
to decide how to vote.

"Because of the jail space problem, this probably will not be
effective," Ghiz said.

Both voted "yes" only after a one-year sunset clause was added, which
means the tougher law will expire in 12 months unless a majority of
council votes to extend it.

Council members David Crowley and Jim Tarbell voted against the law,
calling it "regressive."

The bill's author, former Police Officer Cecil Thomas, said the idea
is to get offenders in the system so court-ordered probation or drug
treatment can track them.

"We want to have some control over those young people standing on the
corners, with an amount just under the limit that (today) will only
bring them a ticket," he said.

The law takes effect immediately.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin