Charges ‘inevitable’ for Saint John medical marijuana dispensary: lawyer

A new medical marijuana business in Saint John is drawing the attention of the public as well as the Saint John Police Department.

“Medicinal Grounds Cannabis Centre” is a medical marijuana dispensary and resource centre, and the first of its kind in Saint John. It sits in the heart of one of the city’s most historic streets, Prince William Street

It offers cannabis products as well as services. A doctor’s prescription is required for the medical products.

READ MORE: Licensed growers must increase ahead of legalization: NB marijuana producer

The business has only been open for about a week, but it’s already raising a few eyebrows.

Health Canada says OrganiGram in Moncton is the only business licensed to produce and sell fresh marijuana and cannabis oil.

Police say any vendor operating an unlicensed medical marijuana dispensary is doing so illegally.

Saint John-area defence lawyer David Lutz says it seems fairly clear — Medicinal Grounds is taking a risk in operating without a proper license.

“I think it’s an inevitability that they’re going to be charged with an offence if they don’t do it the right way, ” Lutz said.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "I think it's an inevitability that they're going to be charged with an offence if they don't do it the right way, " Lutz said.

Lutz calls this a health issue, which makes paying attention to the regulations very important.

“Maybe what is being sold is not something which has been appropriately grown or appropriately harvested or appropriately dried,” he said.

READ MORE: Moncton medical marijuana producer gets green from the province

Ryan Francis, owner of Medicinal Grounds, says he’s been encouraged by the support he has received from the community, including people dealing with cancer.

He also says he is aware of the recent comments made by Saint John police.

Saint John police have not said how they plan to respond to the situation.