In Florida, marijuana use occurs in spite of the drug not being legal in the state. However, there are certain myths about marijuana use in relation to crimes pertaining to the drug. It’s important to know these myths and how they’ve been debunked.
What are the marijuana laws in Florida?
Florida is one of the only states that doesn’t classify marijuana as a less serious drug. As a result, if someone is found to be in possession of marijuana, they can be found guilty of a drug crime. If a person is found to have as much as 20 grams of marijuana, they can be charged with a misdemeanor offense. A felony charge may apply if the amount found is 20 grams to up to 25 pounds.
At the maximum end, a person who is found to be in possession of 10,000 pounds or more of marijuana can face 15 to 30 years in prison and a maximum fine of $200,000 if they’re convicted.
What are the myths about marijuana use and its relation to crime?
One of the biggest myths about marijuana use and its relation to marijuana crime is that it’s a “gateway” drug. It’s a misconception that if people experiment or even regularly use marijuana, they’ll be open to trying more illicit drugs later. Often, those who try marijuana never move on to hard drugs. Only a small fraction of people who start with marijuana will go on to use hard drugs or become addicted. Usually, those people have some other issues, such as a mental health condition.
How does marijuana use affect teens?
It’s true that younger people can be negatively affected by marijuana use. As teens are still developing both mentally and emotionally, their brains can undergo changes through marijuana use. The reasoning center of the brain continues to develop through a person’s 20s, but regular marijuana use can stunt it to some degree. At the same time, young people using marijuana is over-exaggerated by the general public.
If you or someone close to you faces marijuana charges, you should take the charges seriously. Protecting your rights in the criminal justice system is essential.