Centre County Misdemeanor Marijuana Diversionary Program

Penn State students and others charged in Centre County with Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia that is related to marijuana often eligible for a pre-trial diversionary program created by the District Attorney’s Office called the Misdemeanor Marijuana Diversionary Program (MMDP).  With this program, a person is required to complete an online marijuana education program and pay the court costs in exchange for a dismissal of the charges.  If the charges are dismissed, a person can go through the expungement process to have the records of the incident destroyed and removed from government databases.

There are two levels of MMDP, with the difference between the length of the marijuana education program.  The level I program is supposed to take approximately 120 to 150 minutes, so 2 to 3 hours, and the cost is around $70.00.  The level II program is supposed to take approximately 360 to 480 minutes, to 6 to 8 hours, and the cost is around $130.00.

The education class and court costs must be paid within 60 days of the Preliminary Hearing.  Failure to complete the requirements would result in the District Attorney pursuing prosecution of the charges.

Who is Eligible for MMDP

Most importantly, the offenses must be misdemeanor marijuana-related charges.  A felony charge of Possession With Intent to Deliver or Manufacturing Marijuana is not eligible.  A misdemeanor charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia must also be related to marijuana, meaning possession of a marijuana pipe case is eligible whereas possession of a heroin syringe is not.

While having no criminal record is preferable, the District Attorney’s Office will consider MMDP for people that have minor criminal histories.  Prior participation in MMDP may not automatically disqualify a second MMDP unless the person completed level II already.

Free Case Review for State College Marijuana Charges

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor marijuana possession or possession of drug paraphernalia charge in Centre or neighboring counties, contact the State College drug possession lawyers at JD Law for a free consultation.  You can contact the office via email or phone at (814) 689-9139.