Possess 56 grammes of cannabis, deal with proceeds of crime – no conviction recorded

Represented a client who was charged with possessing a prohibited drug, namely 56 grammes (two ounces) of cannabis and a charge of “deal with proceeds of crime”.

After accepting our advice, the client instructed me to make representations to the police to withdraw the “proceeds of crime” charge.

Representations were successful and the “proceeds of crime” charge was withdrawn.

We advised the client to undertake the MERIT progamme, which he successfully completed.

Even though the client was caught with two ounces of cannabis, relying on his successful completion of MERIT and other circumstances, we submitted that the Magistrate could feel comfortable giving the client another chance.

The Magistrate dismissed the matter pursuant to section 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act, without recording a criminal conviction.