Police Chiefs Demand Cannabis Reclassification Amidst Rising Concerns
A growing chorus of police chiefs and commissioners are pushing for tougher drug laws, advocating for cannabis to be reclassified as a Class A substance. This significant shift reflects escalating worries about the drug’s societal impact and potential links to severe mental health issues.
Calls for Action
A letter signed by over a quarter of police and crime commissioners has been sent to the policing minister. In it, 14 police chiefs claim the repercussions of cannabis use could be more detrimental than those of heroin. They are strongly against recommendations that would decriminalize small amounts of the drug.
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“Heroin can kill quickly but the cumulative effect of cannabis in our society may be far worse,”
— Letter from Police Chiefs
According to a 2024 report from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, cannabis use disorder among young adults continues to rise, with over 6% meeting the criteria for the disorder (NIDA 2024).
Psychosis Concerns
Professor Sir Robin Murray, a psychiatrist from King’s College London, has warned of a potential “epidemic of cannabis-induced psychosis.” This would put immense pressure on the National Health Service’s mental health services. Concerns also include the co-occurrence of cannabis with other dangerous substances, as seen in some parts of the US.
The warnings come after the recent conviction of Marcus Monzo, found guilty of murder while in a state of cannabis-induced psychosis. Authorities are increasingly concerned about the effects of cannabis on public safety and mental health.
Gateway Drug Debate
David Sidwick, Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, labeled current cannabis laws as “not fit for purpose.” He also highlighted concerns that cannabis is a gateway drug. Alison Hernandez, of Devon and Cornwall, expressed that society has become too relaxed about cannabis use.
Stuart Reece, an Australian clinician and cannabis researcher, noted that over 90% of hard drug users he encountered began with cannabis. Dr. Karen Randall, a physician in Colorado, pointed out the high healthcare costs linked to cannabis legalization.
