The cities of Créteil, Rennes and even Reims have implemented a fine for the use of narcotic drugs back in June. Following 545 fines issued, the fine is extended to the entire French country, starting from September 1, 2020. The sanction targets cannabis users first, but it applies to all drugs used in France.
The fixed fine is set at €200. If it is paid within 15 days, the fine is cut to €150. Yet, over 45 days, the offender must pay the fine increased to €450. Back in late July, Jean Castex said this fine is to help the forces of order to “penalize without delay” and fight “against points of resale corrupting neighborhoods”.
French are the first cannabis users in Europe, and third as for cocaine, despite a very repressive policy. Statistics from the ministry of the Interior gathered by the French Observatory of Drugs and Drug Addiction (OFDT) show the number of arrests for contravening the law on drugs moved from 81,000 in 1995 to 198,000 in 2018.
Secretary of the Interior Gérald Darmanon said the fine will be equally implemented, without discrimination, “everywhere in France, in Créteil districts, like in the 16th arrondissement in Paris”. The minister considers the new law as a “way consisting of killing any drug traffic”.
