Gardner commented on Green’s tweet, leaving one word on the social media site: “Exactly.”

Last year, St. Louis aldermen reduced the fine for possession of less than 35 grams of marijuana to a maximum of $25 from as high as $500. Gardner declared she would stop prosecuting possession cases if the amount was less than 100 grams.

On Monday, Yoes issued a statement saying Gardner’s tweet was irresponsible, made before a full review of the facts, and reflected “a lack of reverence” for the law and for due process.

“This cavalier approach to the administration of justice puts citizens and those sworn to protect them at increased risk,” Yoes said. “It also undermines the integrity of the criminal justice system.”

Other union officials joined Yoes in the criticism.

Rick Inglima, president of the Missouri Fraternal Order of Police, defended officers making contact with the public, said Gardner’s suggestion such actions are a problem “defies belief,” and added that she has “zero credibility” with law enforcement.