Grayson County Marijuana Arrest
Normally, a pot bust may not make significant news. The fact that a Grayson County marijuana arrest actually occurred, is notable. Why might you ask? The answer is that according to Kentucky State Police 2018 records, there were zero marijuana arrests in 2018. So, when a lengthy investigation results in a raid on a home, it’s curious.
The Leitchfield Police Department, the Grayson County Sheriff’s Office and the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force were involved. After the law enforcement officers entered the home, they found marijuana, cash and various firearms. A man was arrested and charged with:
How Many Drug Arrests Were Made in Grayson County?
According to Kentucky State Police records, there were 555 drug arrests in 2018. This is significantly higher than the surrounding counties, with the exception of Hardin County (1,911 arrests).
What Are the Kentucky Marijuana Trafficking Penalties?
- First Offense
- 5 or more pounds – Class C Felony
- 8 ounces to 5 pounds – Class D Felony
- Less than 8 ounces – Class A Misdemeanor
- Subsequent Offenses
- 5 or more pounds – Class B Felony
- 8 ounces to 5 pounds – Class C Felony
- Less than 8 ounces – Class D Felony
- If the defendant is charged with selling or transferring marijuana to a minor
- First Offense – Class D Felony
- Subsequent Offenses – Class C Felony
What Are the Kentucky Marijuana Cultivating Penalties?
- These penalties apply to unlawful planting, cultivating or harvesting
- First Offense
- 5 or more plants – Class D Felony
- Fewer than 5 plants – Class A Misdemeanor
- Subsequent Offenses
- 5 or more plants – Class C Felony
- Fewer than 5 plants – Class D Felony
In Jefferson County, the County Attorney recently announced a change in the drug enforcement policy for possession of smaller amounts of marijuana. If the possession is the main charge, they will no longer prosecute these crimes. There are a few caveats:
- The amount must be 1 ounce or less
- It does not apply to “public consumption” (so don’t smoke in public)
- It does not apply to someone who is also charged with driving under the influence
- People under the age of 21 will still be prosecuted
Don’t Make Assumptions
As a Louisville criminal defense attorney with decades of experience and well over 100 jury trials, I’d advise anyone not to assume they know the law. If you’re arrested and charged with a drug crime in Kentucky, you need to take it seriously. At the same time, you need to consult an attorney who knows how to handle your case effectively. I handle drug-related cases across the state of Kentucky in both state courts and federal courts.
