Marijuana convictions overturned, California officials forced to reach out

If you know anyone who’s been convicted for marijuana related crimes, this could be good news. Under Prop 64, anyone convicted for possession or selling pot, could have their sentence reduced or completely thrown out.

“The California Department of Justice now has to reach out to about 200-thousand people and let them know, they are eligible for reduced sentences”, says Criminal Defense Attorney Jan Ronis.

Most people did not read the entire Proposition before they voted. But Prop 64 not only legalized pot, it also reduced pot related crimes, going all the way back to 1975.

Problem is, they did not include a “mechanism” to follow through. “This forces the D.O.J. to reach out and contact 220-thousand people, who may eligible’, says Ronis.

In some cases, local prosecutors have already reached out. San Diego and San Francisco have reduced thousands of convictions, since the law went into effect.

But most cities and counties have not. They simply don’t have the money or resources to track down pot smokers.

“So this means the California D.O.J. will now be charged with finding these people and let them know they are eligible for a reduction of sentence. In some cases, charges will be dropped”, says Ronin.

The bill forcing the state to follow through has been approved by lawmakers, now it’s up to the Governor to sign it. He has until September 30 to get it done.