We want everyone to know that in 2015 the New Zealand Police are in no mood to prosecute genuine medicinal cannabis patients. Over the last several years, in the few cases where Police have failed to exercise their discretion, the Courts have treated such users extremely leniently. In nearly all cases where a patient being prosecuted has had the support of their doctor, the charges have either been thrown out, discharges have been issued, or very lenient, non-custodial sentences have been handed down. This courtesy has also been extended to friends and family members who have been cultivating or supplying cannabis for legitimate patients in some cases.
We at Aotearoa Patient Advocates want to arm medical cannabis users and their supporters with the knowledge they need to access the cannabis they need without having the fear and anxiety of prosecution hanging over their heads. By signing up as a patient member, you will receive the advice and expertise you need to be able to approach your doctor with documentation of your condition, and seek their support for your therapeutic use of cannabis.
If any of our patient members and their supporters do end up facing prosecution, we will provide the legal support necessary to achieve a favourable outcome. The Police and the Government still think they can use Prohibition to intimidate vulnerable patients, and keep them from accessing the cannabis medicine that they need, but times have changed. The Courts, the Media and the Public will no longer accept harsh treatment of medicinal cannabis users and it's time to stand up and call the bluff of any remaining Police or Government officials who haven't become as enlightened as their peers.
Join us at Aotearoa Patient Advocates and help make a difference for suffering patients across New Zealand.