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Marijuana smokers go directly to jail

Having had an extremely unfortunate experience with the judicial system here on Maui, my attention is sharply drawn to the many articles and criminal statistics posted regularly in this newspaper. Allow me to share this true story.

In 2005, I was arrested for the felony crime of terroristic threatening. Prior to this, knowledge of said crime was nonexistent. Evidently defending oneself, regardless of contact, with anything other than physical strength is a felony. I disagree, to this day, but that’s beside the point.

Bail was set at $50,000, very steep for a first-time offense. Punishment, 30 days, five years’ probation. After three years, THC was detected in my urine; result: probation violation. Having glaucoma for over 25 years I easily qualify for medical marijuana. Presenting a license to Judge Shackley Rafetto, the very conceiver of the well-known program Drug Court, came to no avail. He sentenced me to five years in prison, no questions asked.

Moral of this true story, my assessment: crystal meth and heroin users get a second chance, marijuana smokers go directly to jail.

You can’t possibly make this stuff up.

Jeffrey Blagus

Maalaea

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