Denver, CO: A city panel appointed by Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper has officially recommended that the Denver Police Department “refrain from arresting, detaining, or issuing a citation” to any adult for the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana during the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver next week.
The Denver Marijuana Policy Review Panel’s recommendation comes in response to news reports in which a spokesman for the Denver Police Department said police would be arresting or citing adults for marijuana possession during the Democratic National Convention despite ballot measures approved by Denver voters calling on them to refrain from doing so. In 2005, Denver voters approved a ballot measure making possession of small amounts of marijuana legal for adults, and in 2007, voters approved a measure designating adult marijuana possession Denver’s “lowest law enforcement priority.”
“If police expect the taxpayers to cover their $1.2 million in overtime during the Democratic National Convention, it is only fair that they respect the laws adopted by those taxpayers,” said panel member Mason Tvert, who led the campaigns for the two ballot measures. “We hope police will not defy the people of this city or its mayor when the international spotlight hits the Mile High City next week.” Tvert continued, “There will be plenty for police to do during the DNC aside from arresting or citing adults who are simply making the safer choice to use marijuana instead of alcohol.”
For more information, contact NORML Executive Director Allen St. Pierre or SAFER director Mason Tvert or call 303-861-0033.