Possession of illegal drugs and narcotics, including prescription medications and controlled substances, will land you in legal trouble in Indianapolis. When it comes to marijuana possession, certain exceptions may apply. Continue reading to learn what might happen if you are caught with marijuana in Indianapolis, Marion County, and what you need to do following a cop encounter involving cannabis products and paraphernalia.
Minor Marijuana Possession is No Longer Prosecuted in Marion County
Nearly 2 years ago, the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office officially declared that they will NOT prosecute minor marijuana offenses any longer. Prosecutor Ryan Mears specifically announced, “Too often, an arrest for marijuana possession puts individuals into the system who otherwise would not be. That is not a win for our community. (…) The enforcement of marijuana policy has disproportionately impacted people of color, and this is a first step to addressing that.” He went on to say, “Our priority is violent crime. (…) We are not going to mess around with these small possession of marijuana cases.”
What Happens if You are Caught With Marijuana in Marion County?
Just because the Prosecutor has chosen not to prosecute anyone guilty of minor marijuana charges does not mean that you will get away with it every time. Most police officers in Marion County will still arrest individuals on any marijuana offense, regardless of where the offense lies on the spectrum. The Indianapolis Fraternal Order of Police is openly rejecting the prosecutor’s decision, submitting a statement saying:
“(…) While we recognize and value prosecutorial discretion, our law enforcement officers have significant concerns anytime a single person elects to unilaterally not enforce a state law as a matter of practice or policy. We are attempting to better understand the basis for this decision and any potential unintended outcomes. In the interim, it is our understanding the IMPD Chief of Police has directed officers to continue to enforce the laws as proscribed by the State of Indiana and we strongly concur.”
Bail Bonds for Marijuana Arrests in Indianapolis
Although your marijuana charges might be dropped or significantly reduced once everything is said and done, you will likely still be arrested and taken to Marion County Jail. There is a small chance that a cop will merely issue you a citation with a scheduled court date, giving you the privilege of skipping the county jail experience altogether. But, in all cases, you should expect to be arrested.
Fortunately, you can quickly get out of Marion County Jail after being arrested for marijuana possession with the help of an Indianapolis bail bonds company. They can post your bail and get you released in as little as one hour, so long as you were not arrested under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you were intoxicated at the time of your arrest, you will not be eligible for bail for at least 6 to 8 hours, or when jail staff deems you sober.
Are you ready to get your friend or loved one out of jail after their marijuana arrest in Indianapolis? Contact Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for the fastest and friendliest bail bond services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate or information, anytime.
You Might Also Enjoy:
Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer to Get Out of Jail?
Will My Bail Be Free if I am Arrested in Marion County for Marijuana Possession?
How to Get Your Friend Out of Jail After a DUI Arrest in Marion County