Convictions for possession of illegal substances can carry serious, long-term consequences. Employers often take seriously the criminal records of candidates, and a drug possession charge, even for a small amount of marijuana, has the potential to jeopardize many future opportunities. While the National Football League continues to consider the inclusion of marijuana on its list of banned substances, for now, its possession is a crime in North Carolina.
Recently, defensive lineman T.Y. McGill was charged when alcohol enforcement agents claim to have seen him with marijuana outside his North Carolina hotel. After denying he was carrying marijuana, he is said to have eventually told agents he was in possession of the substance. He was apparently assessed a fine and also charged with misdemeanor possession.
The day after his arrest, the Cleveland Browns signed McGill without knowing he had been charged with a drug crime. Because of the NFL's policy about marijuana and the fact that drug enforcement agents continue to list marijuana among its Schedule 1 drugs, McGill may face the same fate as other football players who were suspended from play after failing drug tests. Additionally, the Browns have the option of rescinding their offer to McGill if they determine his arrest to be a distraction to the team.
The medical and football communities continue to examine the potential benefits of marijuana on concussion victims. Nevertheless, the laws of North Carolina restrict its possession. Those arrested or charged with drug possession face an uncertain future if found guilty. They would do well to fight the charges with the help of an attorney.
Source: greenrushdaily.com, "Cleveland Browns T.Y. McGill Charged With Weed Possession", Tim Kohut, Sept. 6, 2017
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