Larry Krasner

Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner said he’s “very close” to enacting a policy that would end the criminalization of drug possession.

Krasner, one of the country’s most progressive district attorneys, talked to “Axios on HBO” about his views on the war on drugs.

“Possession is different than dealing,” he said. “We are talking about people who are using drugs. The vast majority of them suffering from addiction. I do not see value in convicting people like that.”

Forwarding the News

Thoughtful, balanced reporting from the Forward and around the web, bringing you updated news and analysis each day.

Terms(Required)

I agree to the Forward's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Email(Required)

If the legislation passes, relaxing the penalties for drug possession, it would be a first for the U.S., eventually leading to less arrests and more treatment, according to Axios.

The blueprint for the policy is a diversion system — those found with a small amount of illegal drugs would not be jailed or get a criminal record. Instead, they’ll be ordered to attend a treatment program or do community service.

It is not yet finished and there’s no official launch date. It could be overturned in the future if a new district attorney is elected.

Currently in Pennsylvania, being in possession of small amounts of heroin or cocaine, even as a first-time offense, can lead to a year in jail and thousands in fines. It then creates obstacles for buying homes, getting a job and receiving educational loans, Krasner said.

Alyssa Fisher is a writer at the Forward. Email her at fisher@forward.com, or follow her on Twitter at @alyssalfisher

A message from our CEO & publisher Rachel Fishman Feddersen

I hope you appreciated this article. Before you go, I’d like to ask you to please support the Forward’s award-winning, nonprofit journalism during this critical time.

The coming year promises to be filled with more complex and historic developments. We are entering an era where independent, fact-based Jewish journalism will be more important than ever. We need to be ready for whatever 2025 will bring, and with your help, we can be.

We’ve set a goal to raise $260,000 by December 31. That’s an ambitious goal, but one that will give us the resources we need to invest in the high quality news, opinion, analysis and cultural coverage that isn’t available anywhere else.

If you feel inspired to make an impact, now is the time to give something back. Join us as a member at your most generous level.

—  Rachel Fishman Feddersen, Publisher and CEO

With your support, we’ll be ready for whatever 2025 brings.

$36 $500

$120 $180 Other amount