First non-criminal pot bust

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - It only took hours for a citation to be issued once a new rule decriminalizing marijuana went into effect.

Residents say they voted for Question 2 in November, to decriminalize the possession of an ounce or less of marijuana because it would save the state resources.

"I think it saves on the court paperwork and on the time and energy wasted on the court system," said John McDonald of Chicopee.

Residents say they also thought the new penalty, a hundred dollar fine, may be a more appropriate punishment, instead of giving someone a criminal record.

"I think a penalty is good, maybe community service too with it," said Randall Burger of West Springfield.

Residents didn't have to wait long to see the new law in action.

Only 12 hours after it was put into effect Springfield Police cited 29-year-old Jose Burgos of Holyoke for carrying half an once of marijuana.

Sgt. John Delaney tells 22News police were waiting for Burgos on suspicion he was transporting other drugs and police say he was carrying 119 Crack Cocaine rocks, and 45 bags of heroin allegedly ready to sell.

It wasn't the case most residents expected would bring the new law into action.

"Well that is a big surprise and thats going to make people say, see thats why we shouldn't have passed it, but thats not the common person that shouldn't have their life ruined," said Debbie Clarke of Easthampton.

Other residents say the law needs another stipulation, for the uncommon cases marijuana possession penalties should be more strict.

"If they have other drug issues offenses, things like that I think they should have the option of putting them in jail but for one small mistake I don't think so," said Dave Frambles.

No one knows for sure how the new law will be treated.

Some decriminalization advocates say they fear towns will create ordinances or bylaws that will re-criminalize possession under one ounce.