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Monday, Aug. 26, 2024

Can Fort Worth police choose not to arrest someone for possessing marijuana?

Ismael M. Belkoura, Fort Worth Report
yes

Fort Worth police officers have the option to issue citations in lieu of arrest for 4 ounces or less of marijuana possession.

The Fort Worth Police Department Code of Ethics outlines certain Class A and B misdemeanors, including possession of marijuana, as eligible for the cite-and-release program. Individuals must attend a court date listed on the citation, where normal processing, including fingerprinting and posting bond, will occur.

Possessing 2 ounces or less of marijuana is punishable up to 180 days in prison and a fine up to $2,000.

Possessing 2 to 4 ounces of marijuana is punishable up to one year in prison and a fine up to $4,000.

State lawmakers approved the cite-and-release program in 2007, but police jurisdictions have the choice to participate.

The decision to make an arrest is made by the investigating officer on a discretionary basis.

See a full discussion of this at Fort Worth Report

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