On June 8 you partially reported on our only arrest in 42 years for
allegedly having 13 grams of marijuana. ("Marijuana Smell at Sackets
Hotel(NY) Leads to Charges for Mass. Pair") Your readers should know
the rest of the story.

Our room and car were staked out for over two hours while we enjoyed
the harbor and dined. A search warrant was obtained. A state police
dog and officer were deployed. Our car and room were searched. We
were cuffed and brought to the station to wait for a judge. Paperwork
took almost two hours before we were released.

We estimate that the criminal justice system spent over 12 man-hours
harrassing us for a violation that is equivalent to a speeding ticket:
a $100 maximum fine for a first offense.

You did not report that we were also inappropriately charged with a
misdemeanor for having a small postal scale. I suspect the chief was
diaappointed and vindictive for this waste of resources, or he was
simply ignorant of the law. This charge was dismissed. We shall file
a complaint for this unprofessional behavior. We can now easily
relate to those who complain of police misconduct.

The irony of this is that I can imagine such law emforcement officials
settling into their easy chairs after work with a scotch and
cigarette, happily reflecting on the good they think they are doing
for the community.

Henry and Anita Szubzda, Billerica, Mass.