Letter: Applying Some Common Sense
Source: The Courier
Date: March 20 2007
Author: Greig Richie, Legalise Cannabis Alliance Scotland
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I write with regard to the story, Abuse
case man walks free, published in Saturday’s paper.
I found it enlightening and encouraging that Sheriff Dunbar used common sense
and context in his deliberating of the facts in this case.
No one condones racism or sectarianism but he rightly advocated a “no victim-no
crime” verdict.
Sheriffs, judges, police chiefs, but most importantly, politicians, should take
note and follow Sheriff Dunbar’s example when dealing with cases regarding self
medication with cannabis.
Public opinion is rapidly growing in favour of campaigns such as the Legalise
Cannabis Alliance, Humanitarian Medicinal Distribution and the UKCIA who openly
call for a “no victim- no crime” approach.
Granny Pat Tabram’s court case in Carlisle for cultivation was widely televised
and headline news. Neil Morgan awaits trial in Swansea for growing his own
medication.
I was personally in court with Pat and saw an outdated legal system tell an old
woman that she had to stay in pain, return to using walking sticks and a
neckbrace ALL while carrying out 250 hours’ community service and paying a
£1000 fine. If she doesn’t or cannot comply she will go to jail where they will
force her to do it.
Had the judge or the British legal system considered the facts along the lines
that Sheriff Dunbar has, they would’ve realised that there is “no victim” and
there is “no crime” in these cases.
I really hope this is the start of some consideration of basic human rights and
not merely a flash in the pan look at the modern day application of Victorian
draconian laws.
Thank you Sheriff Dunbar for showing us that there is at least one sheriff who
can think and apply common sense to the law as it so wrongly stands.
Greig Ritchie, Legalise Cannabis Alliance, Scotland spokesperson.
http://www.thecourier.co.uk/output/2007/03/20/letters.asp