UPDATE: Why marijuana decriminalization in Grand Rapids cannot happen, Kent County prosecutor's lawsuit says

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Marijuana decriminalization in the city is on hold pending a lawsuit filed in Kent County Circuit Court. County Prosecutor Bill Forsyth has sued Grand Rapids over the legality of a city charter amendment, according to a statement City Hall released at about 4:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3.

The court entered a temporary restraining order preventing the city from decriminalizing marijuana possession and use, which was scheduled to take effect Dec. 6.

“The city of Grand Rapids will comply with the Circuit Court’s ruling and will not implement the city charter amendment until further order of the court,” the city statement reads.

RELATED: Despite decriminalization, Grand Rapids police to enforce state marijuana law - for now

Grand Rapids voters on Nov. 6 approved Proposal 2 – a city charter amendment that changes marijuana possession and use from a misdemeanor crime to a civil infraction, like a speeding ticket – with 58 percent in favor. Forsyth and Grand Rapids Police Chief Kevin Belk opposed the proposal, which also prohibits city police from reporting violations of state and federal law to the county prosecutor.

Forsyth had left the office and was not immediately available for comment this afternoon, his staff said.

“We have to follow the court’s order. We’ll have to delay,” City Attorney Catherine Mish said. “We’ll have our opportunity at the hearing date to make our arguments as to why we should be allowed to go ahead and implement the charter amendment.

“The City Commission very much wishes to implement the will of the voters.”

A preliminary injunction hearing in the case has been scheduled for Jan. 9 before Circuit Judge Paul J. Sullivan, according to the city.

Email Matt Vande Bunte, follow him on Twitter or be his friend on Facebook.