Pubdate: Wed, 30 Nov 2016
Source: Telegram, The (CN NF)
Copyright: 2016 The Telegram
Contact:  http://www.thetelegram.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/303
Author: Tara Bradbury
Page: A4

STOREFRONT MARIJUANA DISPENSARIES ILLEGAL: POLICE

Police are investigating two marijuana dispensaries in the downtown
St. John's area, and say what they are doing is illegal.

Supt. Marlene Jesso, officer in charge of the Combine Forces Special
Enforcement Unit, confirmed members of the unit and RNC patrol
officers visited at least one of the dispensaries, CannaLeaf, Monday
evening, "to monitor and investigate what was occurring down there."
The police presence had nothing to do with a flurry of media coverage
about the businesses, she said, adding the dispensaries have been
under investigation for a while.

"These dispensaries are a priority for us," Jesso said. "The public
should understand that under Health Canada regulations, storefront
dispensaries are illegal, whether they're for medical purposes or
recreational purposes.

"The law has not changed, and until the government of Canada makes
changes or legalizes (marijuana), we will continue to investigate the
illegal activity of dispensaries on a case-by-case basis."

Jesso said people who purchase products from the stores "could be part
of the prosecution," in the cases.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has promised to legalize marijuana, and
the federal government is expected to address the issue in the new
year.
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MAP posted-by: Matt