San Francisco Police Captain Dennis Schmitt has made a claim that has caused a riff between the Police Department and the Police Commission: that crime rates spike in areas where you find cannabis clubs. There are currently two such clubs now in San Francisco with a third to be opened soon.
San Francisco Police Commissioner Petra DeJesus has ordered the Police Department to review the department's database and report on the crime rates near the clubs. The department has a computerized system that police officers update with crime incidents. The police report that there were no crimes that could be correlated with the existence of the clubs.
In fact, studies conducted in Berekley have shown that there are no increases of crime rates in the area of cannabis clubs. In fact some studies show a decrease in crime. As a matter of fact, those making the claim that the existence of cannabis clubs increases crime, have not been able to prove it. Even Officer Schmitt had to admit, that she could not link any crime to the two dispensaries. To read an article regarding the situation in San Francisco click here.
It all comes down to the fact that medical users of marijuana are being bullied, but especially here in San Jose and the rest of Santa Clara County. There are many reports of arrests even when the arrestee has shown a valid card and prescription. Some are even being prosecuted, despite California law allowing the medical use of marijuana. Such users must always keep their valid card on their persons and I would even suggest a separate prescription with them (and copies for the car and elsewhere).
