Marion County Prosecutor Won't Charge Small Marijuana Amounts

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The prosecutor for Indianapolis is going to stop pressing criminal charges against adults for possessing about one ounce or less of marijuana.

Acting Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears announced the new policy Monday, saying the office will focus on prosecuting violent crimes. He says the one-ounce level distinguishes between users and dealers, whom the office will continue prosecuting.

Mears says the office has dismissed about 80 percent of marijuana possession charges so far this year. Mears became acting prosecutor last week with Prosecutor Terry Curry's resignation.

A Democratic Party caucus Saturday will select Curry's replacement. Tim Moriarty, a top aide to Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, is challenging Mears.

Moriarty says he supports the marijuana policy change but that more drug abuse and mental health treatment is also needed.