News / Police return prescribed cannabis to its owner
A PRESCRIPTION of medicinal cannabis has been returned to its rightful owner after it was intercepted by police officers at the Royal Mail sorting office in Lerwick two weeks ago.
The medication belonging to local man Liam Lewis was confiscated by police. At the time officers said Lewis was unable to provide satisfactory evidence that the medication had been legally prescribed.
He was threatened with being charged with possession of a controlled drug and felt he had no choice but to accept receiving a recorded police warning.
Twenty eight year old Lewis was prescribed the medication which contains legal cannabis to manage the chronic migraine he is suffering from.
On Thursday, Shetland’s new area commander Stuart Clemenson confirmed that the medication had been returned.
The issue was raised by southend councillor Allison Duncan at a meeting of Shetland’s community safety and resilience board which is attended by the police.
Chief inspector Clemenson reiterated that relevant paperwork was not provided at the time, hence the police action.
But after “due diligence” and when the matter was fully investigated the paperwork was produced and the medication was later returned, he said.
Lewis said on Thursday: “It was a whole load of stress that could easily have been sorted. But time was apparently of the essence.
“I’ve relapsed migraine wise but am getting back to better health.
“A blip, which was unfortunate but at least it was resolved within a reasonable amount of time. I can’t fault the police; just the politics behind policing.”
He will have to appeal the police warning.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
