In some ways, Ohio has more liberal rules regarding marijuana than many other states that have yet to legalize marijuana for adult recreational use. For decades, there has been a decriminalization measure in place, and some of the municipalities around the states have expanded on the statewide decriminalization measure.
People in parts of the state possess small amounts of marijuana with little fear of prosecution. There is also a medical marijuana program that applies to individuals with medical issues ranging from cancer to epilepsy. Do people still get arrested for marijuana offenses in Ohio?
Yes, people can face prosecution for marijuana
Decriminalization of up to 100 grams of marijuana does not mean that it is legal to possess it, nor does it mean that those caught with marijuana can avoid criminal consequences. One hundred grams is roughly three-and-a-half ounces. Those caught in possession of cannabis under that amount will likely have to pay a fine of $150.
Anyone with more than that on their person or in their homes could face prosecution — and so could those caught cultivating marijuana or selling it to others. The penalties someone faces for growing or distributing marijuana could include felony charges that lead to jail time. The number of offenses and the total weight of the marijuana involved will determine the charges.
Drug offenses often lead to prosecutors seeking the maximum penalty possible. Especially if an individual provides marijuana to minors, the state may aggressively prosecute those accused of selling your trafficking marijuana. While it may no longer be a top law enforcement priority, marijuana prohibition is still actively enforced in Ohio.
Learning more about what might lead to drug charges can help those accused of some kind of involvement with marijuana.