Marijuana Drug Busts on The Rise in Yosemite (CA Penal Code §11357)

Rabin Nabizadeh
April 23, 2013

 In a park that has over 3 million visitors each year, there are bound to be a few people who take community with nature, well, a little more seriously than others.  But Yosemite’s park rangers have been cracking down on those who bring illegal substances into the area, attempting to preserve the nature preserve’s “family friendly” atmosphere.  Most of the arrests, it seems, are for marijuana and hallucinogenic mushrooms – both of which are popular in the park among campers and visitors.

A marijuana possession charge at Yosemite can cost you a misdemeanor citation (CA Penal Code §11357) and $275, a minor fee.  However, why is it that the Yosemite rangers have become so concerned with patrolling the park for drug users?  Are these magic mushroom eating, pot smoking “hippie” types so dangerous that they warrant this kind of attention or is the park simply interested in making a little extra cash for the often financially burdened park?

NBC Bay Area’s recent expose on Yosemite’s “drug problem” revealed that 855 people have been arrested in the park within the past year and 2,400 in the past two years.  Perhaps the cause of the sudden concern and vigilance of the park rangers is the ostensible danger that park goers place themselves in when confronting a natural and potentially life-threatening environment.  More likely than not, however, it is the influx of cash that comes from the associated fines that is the real reason for Yosemite’s increase in the interest of visitors’ behavior.

latest news

October 10, 2023
Do You Lose Your License Immediately After a DUI Charge in San Jose?

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a major offense in San Jose. If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, you might be worried about the future of your driver’s license. Following a DUI arrest, you might be wondering what to do next. Knowing your rights and the next steps can significantly impact the outcome of […]

October 9, 2023
San Jose Common Questions About Criminal Defense

Navigating the complexities of criminal law in San Jose can be confusing. Many residents often have questions about their rights, the legal process, and the consequences of a criminal charge. Fortunately, understanding these topics is easier with the correct information. At Summit Defense, our criminal defense lawyers are here to help you. Every criminal offense is […]

May 18, 2023
How To Beat a DUI in California

Being charged with a DUI in California is a serious matter. If you get convicted of a DUI, you spend time in jail, have your license suspended or revoked, and face significant fines and other penalties. A DUI conviction will also appear on your records, which might make it hard for you to secure housing […]