Unlawful Police Search of Cannabis Campaigner

Unlawful Police Search of Cannabis Campaigner’s Home – Charges Suddenly Dropped

The founder of New Zealand’s first cannabis club the Daktory, Dakta Green, today described a raid Monday on an 18-year old cannabis law reform campaigner’s house in Blenheim as “completely over the top and unlawful”.

“However, because Police knew they had acted improperly in the first place, I am pleased that all charges against this young man have been dropped within 24-hours of the illegal search and arrest,” Dakta Green said.

However, Mr Green believes that Josh Lucas, an 18-year old cannabis law reform campaigner was singled out due to local media attention about his intention to stage a rally in Blenheim protesting the current laws on cannabis.

“Josh is a highly motivated young man who approached us with his plan to hold a midday march on June 10,” said Dakta Green. “He then got a bit of a story in the local newspaper, followed by a harshly negative editorial response, and now this.”

“I’m simply appalled by the reaction of the Police. He was raided at home twice in the same day and now, despite being told that charges are to be dropped, remains on 24-hour curfew. It’s outrageous and draconian!”

“The Police have turned up and searched his house without a warrant, expecting to find drugs there just because this young man has been brave enough to state his political views in public.”

During the first raid, Police confiscated 3 grams of cannabis (about 5 joints), a bong, and some knives spotted with black paint.

Mr Green said that when Police came back a second time, they remembered to bring a warrant and this time took away brochures, posters and other materials that Mr Lucas had been collecting in preparation for the June 10 rally.

"Attention Police: it is not illegal to campaign to change a law! It is not illegal to possess posters and brochures which oppose cannabis prohibition laws."

"When you act in this manner, you are acting politically. It is not your job to take part in political debate. Just who is giving you these orders?" asked Dakta Green.

"Judith Collins must immediately reign in the police force or accept full responsibility and resign. This is not a police state and we will not allow this to go on under her watch," Dakta Green concluded.

ENDS