The NYPD has high hopes for its new marijuana enforcement policy — but be warned that lighting up in public isn’t quite legal yet, the department’s top cop said Sunday.
“It’s going to free up our cops to stay out on patrol,” Commissioner James O’Neill told host John Catsimatidis on his 970 AM radio show, referring to the department’s updated policy — which went into effect Sunday — that says those caught smoking in public or possessing up to 25 grams of ganja may be eligible for a court summons instead of an arrest.
“It’s also going to prevent people that have no prior criminal record from entering into the criminal justice system,” the commish said.
But O’Neill also cautioned that this shouldn’t be mistaken for a reefer free-for-all, and not everyone will be let off easy.
“People need to know that smoking marijuana in public is still illegal, and you can be subject to a summons or arrest,” he said. “If you’re on parole, probation, if you have a history of violence … you’ll still be subject to arrest.”
Other factors that could land you in cuffs for public puffing include having an open warrant, failing to show identification or driving while high.
“You cannot smoke and drive,” O’Neill said. “If you behave that way, then there are consequences.”
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