If you are looking for information about the legality of marijuana in Rhode Island, then you have come to the right place. There are a number of laws that govern the possession and distribution of marijuana in the state of Rhode Island. However, there are certain penalties that you can receive if you are found guilty of possession of marijuana.
Penalties For Marijuana Possession With Intent to Distribute
In Rhode Island, possession of marijuana with intent to sell or distribute is a serious offense. The penalties for this type of offense vary depending on the amount of marijuana in your possession. You can be charged with a misdemeanor for possession of less than an ounce of marijuana or a felony for possession of more than an ounce.
If you are arrested for possession with intent to sell, you could face thousands of dollars in fines and jail time. For a second or third offense, the penalties are doubled.
In addition to hefty fines, a criminal record can affect your ability to find a job and get a mortgage. An experienced Rhode Island drug possession defense lawyer can help you minimize the consequences of your arrest.
When you are arrested for a drug crime in Rhode Island, you will usually be put in a drug court program. This program is designed to help you recover from your addiction. It involves drug screening, drug education, and progress reporting to the court. Successful completion of this program will remove your conviction from your criminal record.
During the course of the court program, you will be required to do community service and complete a drug abuse evaluation. You may also be required to attend a drug treatment class.
Underground Market Thrives After Legalization
The underground market for marijuana continues to grow in the U.S., even after a state has legalized its sale. Even in California, a state that has legalized weed, the underground market remains strong.
In Rhode Island, a small, coastal state, a recreational marijuana market has begun to emerge. But the rapid rollout of sales has presented technical challenges. And the state has been slow to regulate the new industry.
Although advocates of legalization painted a rosy picture of a flourishing and safe market, the reality is that the illicit market for cannabis will continue to exist, as long as the federal government keeps marijuana illegal. Marijuana is cheaper on the black market than in the legal market, and many consumers still choose to buy their weed from the pre-legalization dealer.
There are several ways states can thwart the illicit market. First, state officials can restrict the authority of municipalities to regulate marijuana businesses. Second, they can raise tax rates on illicit enterprises. Third, they can increase enforcement. However, this could stifle the black market and undermine the logic of legalization.
Rhode Island’s governor has yet to endorse a widely supported proposal to regulate the recreational market. However, voters support the idea. According to a poll, 57 percent of residents support regulating marijuana like alcohol.
Marijuana is a Controlled Substance in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, marijuana is a Schedule I controlled substance. The drug has a high potential for abuse and is illegal to possess without proper legal authorization.
Marijuana is distributed in Rhode Island in a variety of ways. Some of the most common places for distribution include bars, college campuses, and private residences. But there are also other sources, including street gangs.
A number of criminal groups distribute marijuana in Rhode Island. These include Mexican, Dominican, and Jamaican criminal groups. They transport the marijuana into the state through both commercial and private vehicles. Occasionally, they commit violent crimes to protect their distribution area.
The amount of marijuana available in the state varies. It can be produced locally, as well as in Mexico and Canada. However, the majority of the marijuana in the state is produced in Mexico.
While it is illegal to grow or possess marijuana in Rhode Island, some people do grow it for medicinal purposes. This is allowed, but only if they register with the government.
If you are suspected of growing marijuana in Rhode Island, you may be charged with a criminal offense. This charge is punishable by up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $500. You will be required to complete 100 hours of community service.
