Possession of less than two ounces of cannabis is punishable by up to six months incarceration and a fine up to $500 for the first offence. For a second violation, the penalty rises to a possible two years in prison and a fine up to $2,000. There is a chance of deferred sentencing for first violation. For possession of two ounces or more, the punishment is up to three years imprisonment and a fine up to $10,000. Possession of one pound or more is penalized by up to five years incarceration and a fine up to $100,000. Possession of ten pounds or more carries a punishment of up to 15 years imprisonment and a fine up to $500,000.
Production of more than three plants is punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. For more than 10 plants, the penalties raise to a possible five years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. Production of more than 25 plants carries a penalty up to 15 years in prison and a fine up to $500,000.
Sale or delivery of less than one-half ounce of cannabis is punishable by up to two years incarceration and a fine up to $10,000. For quantities of one-half ounce or more, the penalties raise to a possible five years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. Sale or delivery of one pound or more carries a punishment of up to 15 years incarceration and a fine up to $500,000.
Anybody over 18 who delivers cannabis to a minor who is at least three years his junior faces an additional penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine up to $25,000. Any sale of cannabis to a minor or any sale on school grounds or on a school bus carries an additional sentence of up to ten years imprisonment.
Sale of paraphernalia is penalized by up to one year incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000.
Conditional release: The state authorizes conditional release or alternative or diversion sentencing for individuals facing their first prosecutions. Typically, conditional release lets the offender opt for probation rather than trial. After successfully finishing probation, the person's criminal record does not reflect the charge.
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