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Cannabis Campaigners' Guide News Database result:
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UK: Warning only on Cannabis
Kevin Cook Heartland Evening News
Wednesday 28 Jan 2004 A warning is all that will be given to people in possession of a small quantity of cannabis when new laws come into effect tomorrow. Warwickshire Police stress that despite the reclassification of cannabis from a class B to a class C drug. It will still remain illegal - although it admits users will no longer be arrested if they are in possession of only a small amount. The force still retains the power of arrest for anyone found in possession but, in line with ACPO guidelines, officers are encouraged to warn users instead of arrest when possible. Speaking of the change in the law, which comes into effect from tomorrow, Detective Chief Superintendent of Warwickshire Police said "Even though cannabis has been reclassified, it still remains illegal and can have harmful effects. "The reclassification means we can concentrate on class A drugs, particularly heroin and crack cocaine - which are a force priority, while still effectively dealing with those people smoking or found in possession of cannabis. "Heroin, cocaine and crack-cocaine seriously damage peoples health and we will focus on people supplying these drugs and committing a crime to fund a drug habit. Officers in Warwickshire will be expected to make an arrest if cannabis is smoked in public view, when a person repeatedly re-offends, if there is a local policing problem linked to cannabis use, if the person is in possession of cannabis and close to a youth premises, if the user is a vulnerable person, for example a child under ten found in possession. In addition, officers are also recommended to arrest any user under 17 so they can be dealt with in a different way to adult offenders. Mr Sear added: "I would take this opportunity to encourage anyone with information on drugs to contact their local police station or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111 "I would also encourage people suffering from a drug dependency to seek expert help from their own doctor, or from a support agency. Alternatively people can get help through the talk to Frank 24 hour drugs helpline 0800 776600
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