Oswego Decriminalizes Possessing Small Amounts of Cannabis

On Tuesday the Oswego Village Board passed a measure allowing police to issue civil citations for the possession of 10 grams of cannabis or less, according to the Beacon News.

"This really doesn't change anything as it relates to our enforcement efforts. It is a matter of venue where we will see those offenses processed," Police Chief Jeff Burgner told the Beacon News.

Previously, possession of the drug was considered a criminal offense. Suspects were prosecuted, requiring officers to go to court.

Now offenders will just pay a fine. First-time offenders will pay $100, then $150 and $250 a second and third violation. The maximum penalty for repeat violators is $750.

Yorkville passed a similar ordinance in October. Municipalities are permitted to decriminalize small amounts of cannabis after the state legislature amended the Cannabis Control Act last year.

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