BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Erie Count District Attorney John Flynn announced Wednesday his office will no longer pursue charges for individuals arrested for low-level possession of marijuana.
The announcement, which also will reduce current and incoming cases to non-criminal violations, follows the New York State Legislature's passage of marijuana decriminalization and comes before the official signature of Governor Andrew Cuomo on the legislation.
Now, individuals found guilty of a low-level violation will be issued a ticket or fine and the violation will not appear on their criminal record.
The possession of large amounts as well as the sale of marijuana remain illegal in NYS, the DA says those cases will still be prosecuted.
The DA is directing anyone previously convicted of criminal possession of marijuana in the fifth degree to file a motion to have their criminal record sealed.
