15 Years Later, Maltese Man Caught With Cannabis And €250 In 2008 Finally Acquitted
A man convicted for cannabis possession 15 years ago has been by the appeals court after a decade and a half ordeal.
Conray Azzopardi, represented in court by lawyers Franco Debono and Francesca Zarb, was arrested back in June 2008 during a police search in a Marsaskala apartment. While attempting to flee, Azzopardi dropped a bag filled with cannabis.
Officers also found €250 in cash within the premises.
While he was convicted for possessing drugs implying they weren’t merely for personal consumption, the court acquitted him of trafficking charges.
Fast forward to the present day, and a significant shift has occurred in Azzopardi’s life. Justice Neville Camilleri, acting on the recommendation from both the Drug Offenders Rehabilitation Board and Caritas, has decided to overturn Azzopardi’s one-year jail term.
They cited that Azzopardi had successfully completed his rehabilitation program, emphasising the necessity of stability in his life moving forward.
Despite facing medical conditions, Azzopardi remained dedicated to his care plan, a commitment the board acknowledged and appreciated.
However, the court was informed that Azzopardi’s application for medicinal cannabis was denied. The health authorities’ policy disqualifies those who have previously been treated at the detox center from accessing medicinal cannabis.
Taking into account these recommendations, as well as the findings from a social inquiry report, Camilleri felt it appropriate to annul Azzopardi’s jail sentence.
Instead, the court has chosen to enforce a two-year probation order, ensuring Azzopardi remains under observation.
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