Police warn Hoosiers crossing state lines for weed, following Ohio’s legalization

RICHMOND, Ind. — Indiana’s neighbors to the east have joined several other states in legalizing recreational marijuana use.

However, it’s still not legal in the Hoosier state.

With Low Bob’s Discount Tobacco in Richmond being less than 5 miles from Ohio, employees think there will be plenty of customers making that drive across state lines.

“I’ve got customers coming in here for 20 years. I’ve been here 20 years,” said Tonyia Seiber.

She said while dispensaries are opening up their customer base, business at Low Bob’s could grow with more people coming in for paraphernalia and other items.

However, she is concerned for those who will take the 10-minute drive over from Indiana.

“Two days ago they legalized it, and I’ve heard of people talking about it and saying, I don’t know if I would do it, it’s kind of risky,” said Seiber.

Police warn that weed is still not allowed in the Hoosier state.

“Oftentimes people maybe aren’t from Indiana, just traveling through, or people from Indiana think that if they buy it legally in another state then they can possess it legally, which is simply not true,” said Sgt. John Perrine with Indiana State Police.

Ohio now joins Michigan and Illinois to offer marijuana recreationally, and Kentucky offers it with a medical card.

Indiana is surrounded by legalized states, but police said they haven’t seen many people traveling for it.

“I don’t think we’ve seen a significant increase, but what we have seen an increase of is people that don’t know the law,” said Perrine.

While areas like Marion County have decriminalized weed, if you’re stopped by a trooper with marijuana, wax, or edibles, you’re still breaking the law.

“Keep in mind the Indiana State law has not changed,” said Perrine. “Regardless of what county you’re in, the Indiana State Police will follow that state law and will enforce it as such.”

In Indiana, less than 30 grams is considered a Class B Misdemeanor that could lead to 180 days in jail or a $1,000 fine.

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