Boston 9/19/2009
The new law decriminalizes possession of less than an ounce of marijuana. But that did not stop police from handing out handfuls of $100 tickets when they caught festival-goers with pot.
Sean McGivney, 19, of Hampton, N.H., was one of several interviewed who received tickets.
“We were sitting politely, minding our own business, making a point not to smoke when people were around,” he said. “That is when a guy came up and told us to ‘hand it over.’”
McGivney said he was pleased the laws had become more lenient, but added, “I don’t think it’s enough."
In past years, many attending the rallies have smoked marijuana openly as an act of civil disobedience. The event has been held at Boston Common since 1992.
"After years of helplessly watching Boston Police bag harmless stoners, it will be a joy to see people enjoying themselves without the threat or fear of arrest," Dr. Keith Saunders, president of MassCann/NORML, said on the rally’s website.
