Cannabis
Cannabis is a Class B drug. That means it’s illegal.
Cannabis is a sedative and can cause hallucinations. Regular use
can increase the risk of developing psychotic illnesses including
schizophrenia.
How can I recognise it?
Cannabis comes in three forms: herbal, hash and
oil.
Herbal cannabis is most common. It’s made from the dried leaves and
flowers of the cannabis plant and looks like the dried herbs you
might use in cooking.
Hash is a black or brown lump made from the resin of the
cannabis plant. Oil is much less common and is dark
and sticky.
Most users mix cannabis with tobacco and smoke it. You might
hear it referred to by lots of slang names like dope, draw, pot,
puff and weed but you can usually identify it by its characteristic
strong smell.
Essex Police asks landlords and neighbours to look out for signs
that any property is being used to grow cannabis.
Signs could include:
- Intense activity following moving in, then very little
thereafter
- The curtains or blinds being permanently drawn
- Insisting on paying rent in advance or away from the
premises
- Access to the property may be limited to the front porch or
doorstep
- There may be intense pungent smells emanating from or near the
address
- Different occupants may visit at all times of day,
- A reluctance to let landlords or agents check the property on a
routine visit.
What’s the law?
Essex Police will take action against anyone
found carrying cannabis.
We’ll always confiscate the drugs but what other action we take
depends on your age and history.
Anyone aged 10 and over found in possession of cannabis, no
matter how small the amount, can be arrested.
Adults
If you’re 18 or over and have been found carrying
cannabis for the first time, police can issue a warning.
However if you are found in possession again, police can issue a
penalty notice for disorder and an on the spot fine of £80. This is
logged on the Police National Computer.
If you are found with cannabis for a third time you are likely
to be arrested.
The maximum penalty for possession is five years' imprisonment
and an unlimited fine.
The maximum penalty for supply, dealing, production and
trafficking of cannabis is 14 years' imprisonment and an unlimited
fine.
Young people
A person under the age of 18 found to be in possession of cannabis
can be arrested and given a reprimand, final warning or charge
depending on how serious the offence is.
If you receive a reprimand your parent or guardian will be
contacted. After one reprimand, any further offence can lead to a
final warning or charge.
Following a final warning, any further offence will normally
result in criminal charges. You will also be referred to a youth
offending team who will arrange a rehabilitation programme.
For more information on drugs, their effects and appearance
please visit www.talktofrank.com.
Previous < > Next