5 Jersey City officers who tested positive for marijuana await job reinstatement
New Jersey state law allows all police officers to use recreational marijuana. However, Jersey City wants its officers held to a higher standard.
More Stories
Five Jersey City Police officers are still waiting to learn if the city will reinstate their jobs. They were dismissed by the police department after testing positive for marijuana.
New Jersey state law allows all police officers to use recreational marijuana. However, Jersey City wants its officers held to a higher standard.
The city filed a federal lawsuit, claiming the Federal Gun Control Act prohibits anyone who uses marijuana from being licensed to carry a gun.
Mayor Steven Fulop and the city’s public safety director have said they don’t want to take a chance of a police officer being impaired while working.
However, while checking the pulse of those who live in this city, several residents along Grove Street told News 12 they disagree with the city officials on this matter.
“I think they should be able to do whatever they want. Everybody else is doing it, so why can’t they,” says Charles Stephens.
Resident Alexa Trechock agreed.
“As long as it’s off duty, obviously, I think it should be their right to be able to do it similar to alcohol,” she says.
Before this lawsuit was filed, the state Civil Service Commission determined Jersey City must rehire these five officers, but so far, the city has refused and will likely wait until a judge makes a ruling.
