BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - THE Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force is reminding residents that smoking marijuana in public places is still an offense and those who are doing so should stop.
This comes as the law enforcement agency continues to receive numerous complaints from persons who are being affected by the indiscriminate smoking taking place.
Speaking during Wednesday’s (Jan. 20) NEOC media brief, Superintendent Cromwell Henry noted that indiscriminate smoking is prevalent at social events and on street corners.
“This practice is not only illegal, but it affects those around you who do not smoke or who may have health issues that are aggravated by the smoke,” Henry reminded.
The Government moved to the Parliament to decriminalise small amounts of marijuana, however, its use in public space has not been permitted and is still classified as an offence.
“We are therefore appealing to those who smoke to have consideration for those who do not smoke and confine the smoking to the privacy of your home,” pleaded Henry.
While referencing the law, the Superintendent reminded of the penalties for someone found using the plant in public.
“Under Section 6A (b) of the Drugs Amendment Act 201: 'A person found smoking cannabis or cannabis resin in any public place, not including a registered place of worship of the Rastafarian Faith or any place authorised by this Act and any Regulations made under this act, shall be issued with a fixed penalty notice for $1,000 or in default of payment, shall be liable to up to twenty hours of community service, or in default to a term of five days imprisonment’”.
