A raid on Paul Smith’s alleged illegal medicinal cannabis operation in rural Northland, New Zealand, has sparked widespread criticism. Police destroyed 40 cannabis plants and seized various products, charging the 66-year-old, widely known as “Gandalf,” with cultivation, possession for supply, and selling cannabis. Despite medicinal cannabis being legal in New Zealand since 2020, Smith is accused of supplying products outside of the regulated framework—a charge that carries a potential eight-year prison sentence.

Protestors Rally in Defence of Alternative Access

Over 50 protestors gathered outside the Whangārei District Court, where Smith pleaded not guilty to all charges. Advocates argue the raid not only targeted Smith but also negatively affected hundreds of patients who depend on cheaper products from the illicit cannabis market for pain management. Protest organiser and patient, Pearl Schomburg, described Smith as a “compassionate, barefoot hippy,” who provided affordable relief for individuals unable to afford the expensive legal alternatives.

Wealth and Stigma Limit Legal Options

Many medicinal cannabis users face substantial obstacles when trying to access prescriptions due to social stigma and the prohibitive cost of lawful products, which can amount to as much as $400 per month. According to a Massey University study, two-thirds of New Zealand’s medicinal cannabis patients continue to rely on the illegal medicinal cannabis market, with financial barriers cited as the primary reason. Critics assert that the existing system unfairly restricts access to those with greater financial means, leaving vulnerable patients with no viable options.

Growing Calls for Reform

Illegal medicinal cannabis in New Zealand has sparked significant debate, with Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick condemning a recent raid as a “waste of public resources.” She argued that punitive actions fail to reduce drug use or support those with addiction issues, advocating instead for a harm-reduction approach. Swarbrick highlighted the reliance on illegal channels as evidence of inadequate regulations, stating, “Instead of terrorising a 66-year-old man, we should be reassessing these policies.”

Meanwhile, Smith has expressed gratitude to supporters via social media as donations flood in for his legal defence. His case has reignited discussions about New Zealand’s drug policy challenges, particularly as cannabis remains the country’s most widely consumed illegal substance.

Source: The Guardian