As reported by Amanda Milkovits in the March 27, 2013 edition of the Providence Journal, an undercover police officer and other police surveillance helped led to the arrest of a Providence man on numerous drug charges. The police seized over $1,000.00 in cash, ammunition and nearly nine (9) ounces of marijuana. The man has been charged with three (3) counts of possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
Pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws 21-28-4.01(a), except as authorized by this chapter, it shall be unlawful for any person to manufacture, deliver, or possess with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance.
Possession of marijuana will be decriminalized on April 1, 2013. Possession of marijuana was a misdemeanor and punishable by up to one (1) year imprisonment and/or a $500.00 fine. The new law makes possession of marijuana a civil offense and is punishable by a $150.00 fine. The change only applies to possession of one (1) ounce or less of marijuana. Although possession of marijuana is decriminalized, possession of marijuana with intent to sell is still a crime and marijuana is still a schedule I drug.
Pursuant to R.I.G.L. 21-28-4.01, possession with intent to deliver a schedule I controlled substance is punishable by imprisonment for not more than thirty (30) years, or fined not more than one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) nor less than three thousand dollars ($3,000), or both.
If you or a family member has been charged with possession of marijuana, possession of cocaine or other drug charges, please allow Attorney Robert H. Humphrey's reputation, experience and skill to successfully guide you through the legal process. Please contact Attorney Robert H. Humphrey, Esq., at 401-816-5862 or e-mail him at rhh@rhumphreylaw.com.