District Attorney Kim Ogg says Harris County is spending $26 million a year on misdemeanor marijuana cases and its not making things any safer.
We know that our constituents want public safety to be our number one concern, says Ogg. And they just dont believe that people in possession of small amounts of marijuana are their biggest public safety concern. Theyre worried about burglars and rape.
Appearing on Houston Matters, Ogg explained a new policy directed at people caught with less than four ounces. The offense wont show up on their record if they agree to take a four-hour drug education class.
Ogg also answered critics who say the D.A.s office isnt following the law.
Pre-charge diversion is a lawful exercise of our discretion as district attorneys, adds Ogg. And those decisions are made every single day in prosecutors offices all over this state and the United States.
Polls in Texas and nationwide have shown support for the full legalization of marijuana.
News Moderator: Katelyn Baker
Full Article: Harris County District Attorney Defends New Marijuana Policy
Author: Gail Delaughter
Contact: (713) 748-8888
Photo Credit: Gail Delaughter
Website: Houston Public Media
