Malta’s largest pro-cannabis legalisation group has called out a court’s decision to fine a Sicilian man €850 after he was found with 7 grams of cannabis. 

“We understand that while cannabis remains illegal, the courts must give a penalty,” ReLeaf told Lovin Malta.

“However, keeping in mind that Malta is currently discussing law reform for the legalisation of personal use, the courts should be compassionate when giving these kinds of penalties in their judgements, and assure that all fines are compatible and comparable to the crime committed,” they continued.

The man, a 41-year-old Sicilian, was arrested after being randomly searched by police as he was arriving on a catamaran from Sicily. He was charged with importing 7 grams of cannabis and possession of cannabis grass in front of magistrate Donatella Frendo Dimech.

The man pled guilty to the charges, and was fined €850 and had his cannabis confiscated to be destroyed.

He was also ordered to pay the fine immediately.

“If the man was caught with cannabis valued at roughly €140, how does it make sense to give a fine of €850, especially in light of incoming law changes?” ReLeaf asked.

“This case shows the importance of undertaking this important reform in society, making it easier to identify and realise that, although this person was charged with importing cannabis, in reality, it was for his personal use,” they said. 

“There must be a penalty if someone tries to illegally traffic drugs into the country – but clearly, 7 grams is not an amount worth trafficking.”

ReLeaf ended by referring to the years-long, drawn-out court cases Maltese people often face when caught with cannabis.

“The man pled guilty because its common knowledge that these sorts of court cases take forever in Malta – it’s easier to just plead guilty and pay a fine than try to fight it over six or seven years.”