The Future of Police Enforcement: How Marijuana Laws Affect Officers

As the marijuana debate continues to dominate public discussions, one question remains: how would police officers react if marijuana possession were reclassified as a severe felony? The answer may surprise you. Dive into the real-world implications and the potential impact on law enforcement.

Law Enforcement's Perspective on Marijuana Possession

It is likely that many police officers would not enforce marijuana laws if federal authorities attempted to enforce them. According to the current landscape, law enforcement already faces a multitude of challenges with limited resources. One officer, when asked about enforcing marijuana laws, expressed, "If the Feds want federal law enforced, let the Feds do it. I'm just here to keep the peace, and potheads are pretty peaceful."

This attitude is not uncommon among officers in areas where marijuana possession is prevalent. In fact, some officers may even share stories about how they casually approached the subject. One officer recounted, “I walked by a pair of cops late at night with a joint in my mouth, and they didn’t see me until we were standing right next to each other. We froze for a moment like deer in headlights, but they just stared back stone-faced and eventually burst into laughter, making fun of me for a bit before I left."

State-By-State Legalization: A Complex Scenario

With 26 states allowing marijuana for medical use and 5 states fully legalizing it for recreational use, the situation becomes more complex. Local officials and residents might not be willing to give up the significant tax revenue generated from marijuana sales. Therefore, if federal authorities tried to enforce stricter laws, it would likely end up at the Supreme Court. The final decision would likely remain with state discretion.

Regional Differences in Police Behavior

The behavior of police officers can vary significantly depending on the area they work in. For instance, in areas where marijuana possession is rampant, officers may adopt a more relaxed approach. In my city, where marijuana is openly smoked, officers might adopt a policy of "don't cause trouble, don't be obvious about it, and don't do it around kids." This approach allows for a more practical and effective strategy.

Consequences and Potential Outcomes

Without a doubt, the reclassification of marijuana possession as a severe felony would lead to significant legal and societal changes. Federal authorities would need to provide the necessary resources and support to enforce such strict laws. However, without a will to do so, or without the support of the local population, these laws might not be enforced effectively.

For instance, in my area, where marijuana is widely accepted, if marijuana possession were suddenly made a severe felony, officers might simply laugh it off and consider it a non-issue. They might just offer a mild warning, or even ignore the infraction entirely. Many officers have already witnessed situations where they did not pursue marijuana cases, partly because they recognized the futility of enforcing such laws in regions where marijuana is frequently used.

The ultimate decision on how to enforce marijuana laws rests with the states. If federal authorities push for stricter enforcement, states will need to decide whether to comply or stand their ground. Local governments must weigh the potential consequences against the benefits of compliance or resistance.

Conclusion

While marijuana possession as a severe felony may sound like an intimidating prospect, law enforcement officers in areas where marijuana is prevalent are already accustomed to handling such situations with a relaxed and practical approach. The future of police enforcement will likely depend on the balance between federal mandates and local preferences. Ultimately, the decision to enforce such laws will rest with state governments and the communities they serve.