Possessing and Selling Marijuana in Tennessee
We’re all familiar with the slogan of the Memphis-based company, FedEx. “When it absolutely, positively has to be there overnight.” But does that apply to the shipment of marijuana?
A Massachusetts woman recently sued FedEx because it allegedly mistakenly sent her a package containing seven pounds of marijuana. She further claims that FedEx then gave her address to the intended recipients, who later showed up at her door. The woman contends that FedEx violated state privacy laws and put herself and her children in danger.
The woman thought the package was a birthday present for her daughter because when she opened it, she found pixie sticks, peppermint, and candles. What she thought was potpourri, turned out to be marijuana. According to the complaint, an hour later, a man knocked on her door looking for the package while two men sat in a vehicle. She claimed she didn’t have it and slammed and bolted the door. While police have made an arrest, the woman is worried about retribution.
If this event happened in Tennessee, the perpetrators would face criminal charges. Possessing and selling marijuana in Tennessee has very serious consequences. Persons caught selling more than one-half ounce can face felony charges and stiff fines. The penalties vary according to the previous offenses of the perpetrator and the amount of marijuana involved. People selling marijuana in an amount over one-half ounce and up to 10 pounds can be imprisoned for up to six years.
It’s also a crime to possess marijuana in Tennessee. For a first or second offense, possessing one-half ounce or less of marijuana is a misdemeanor. Penalties include a fine of up to $2,500, up to one year in jail, or both. When the defendant has two or more prior possession convictions, the offense is treated as a felony. The penalties include a fine of up to $5,000, between one and six years in prison, or both.
If you have been charged with selling or possessing marijuana in Tennessee, consult with a criminal defense lawyer immediately.