Why are young people being dealt with more strictly than adults?
They are not being dealt with more strictly – they are likely to receive reprimands or warnings for a first offence of cannabis possession. However, the process is more formal for persons under 18, and it is important that their cases should be dealt with at the police station, so that any underlying problems with the young person can be identified. Young people under the age of 18 who receive a final warning, or are reported for court proceedings for the possession of cannabis, will be referred to the local Youth Offending Team (YOT), and are likely to have their substance misuse assessed by the YOT drugs worker, who may arrange treatment or other support where this is needed.
