If we legalize a drug that is rooted in criminal activity, does that mean that marijuana-related crimes will potentially plummet? That is the question that, apparently, has received an astounding “YES!” from New York City. Recently, the metropolitan jungle reported that crimes related to the little green plant have not only dropped, but they have also been buried alive thanks to reform, which is pretty remarkable considering that Gotham was once a hot spot for weed crimes in 2010. Interestingly, this announcement has arrived on the heels of Senator Cordero’s introduction of a Bill to the Mexico Supreme Court, issuing that legalization is the best front against organized drug crime. Perhaps we can learn much from one of the largest cities in the world. Let’s take a closer look at how marijuana-related arrests in New York City have plummeted.
Promising Stats
On November 8, the Drug Policy Alliance released some promising statistics concerning the recent trend in cannabis crimes, so to speak. As of September 2018, the number of marijuana-related arrests in Gotham has plummeted by a staggering 97%, due greatly in part to the efforts of the City Council and activists. These numbers contrast greatly to those in 2010 when an estimated 4,300 New Yorkers were arrested for pot possession.
Likewise, this autumn season signaled a drop in arrests, as well. In the first months of 2018, 1,300 were arrested for cannabis possession on a monthly basis in New York City. Even more remarkable, the number of arrests dropped to 500 per month after the New York City Police Department initiated a new action plan back in May. So what changed? Now, the police must provide a summons for marijuana suspects besides arresting these people. As a result, pot crimes dropped to a shocking 151 arrests per month. Once again, the police pulled through.
Case for Cannabis
Another critical step toward these results was the fact that New York City prosecutors stopped prosecuting small-time marijuana crimes and focused on more serious offenses. As of September, the Brooklyn District Attorney maintained a caseload of 12 incidences, in contrast to the total of 349 cases back in January 2018. As for October, New York City experienced 28 criminal cases.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
