Community Safety and Violence Prevention Initiatives
Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark and local leaders in business are calling for a reevaluation of how cannabis offenses and retail theft are prosecuted, citing current laws as ineffective in protecting Bronx communities.
Cannabis Offenses
Clark argues that the state’s Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act of 2021, aimed at reducing mass incarceration, has left a loophole that "makes it virtually impossible to prosecute any illegal cannabis possession and sale." This loophole stems from the use of "pure weight" instead of "aggregate weight" in measuring cannabis. "Aggregate weight" includes the entire amount of cannabis seized, including fillers such as stems and seeds. In contrast, "pure weight" only measures the amount containing the high-inducing chemical THC. This difference has led to cases being dismissed, with Clark citing two Brooklyn cases that were thrown out due to the difference in standard.
Retail Theft
Clark also highlights retail theft as a "significant problem," stating that too many offenders are released and go on to commit more crimes. She believes that the 2020 reforms to bail and discovery laws, intended to address past injustices in the criminal justice system, have had "collateral consequences" that have enabled retail theft.
Efforts to Clamp Down on Illegal Activities
The DA and local Business Improvement District (BID) leaders have written a letter to elected officials, urging them to reassess how these offenses are prosecuted. Clark argues that the current laws do not provide adequate protection for the community, and that small businesses are fighting a losing battle against types of crime that pose a serious threat to their livelihood.
Conclusion
The Bronx DA and local business leaders are calling for a reevaluation of the current laws to ensure that they effectively protect the community. By addressing the loopholes in cannabis offenses and retail theft, they aim to create a safer and more just environment for small businesses and residents alike.
FAQs
Q: What is the issue with the current cannabis laws?
A: The current laws use "pure weight" instead of "aggregate weight" in measuring cannabis, making it difficult to prosecute illegal possession and sale.
Q: What is the problem with retail theft?
A: The 2020 reforms to bail and discovery laws have led to too many offenders being released and going on to commit more crimes.
Q: What is being done to address these issues?
A: The DA and local Business Improvement District leaders have written a letter to elected officials urging them to reassess how these offenses are prosecuted and to consider changes to the laws.
Q: What is the goal of the DA’s efforts?
A: The goal is to create a safer and more just environment for small businesses and residents by addressing the loopholes in cannabis offenses and retail theft.
