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Not Quite the Happiest Place on Earth: Grandmother Arrested at Disney

By Ceylan Pumphrey, Esq. on May 22, 2019

It seems that cannabinoid oil, simply called CBD oil, has exploded onto the market. But, that doesn't mean it's welcome everywhere. Just ask the 69-year-old grandmother who was arrested for having CBD oil in her purse at Walt Disney World.

The Happiest Place on Earth ... Unless You Have CBD Oil

Hester Burkhalter was arrested on April 15th after security at Disney World found a vial of CBD oil in her purse. Unfortunately for her, Florida only allows CBD oil possession with a medical marijuana card. Burkhalter said that her doctor instructed her to use it for her arthritis. In fact, according to her attorney, Burkhalter's doctor faxed a copy of a prescription on the day of her arrest. But Mickey Mouse still called the sheriff on her.  

Although the charges were later dropped, Burkhalter's lawyer has filed a motion notifying Disney World and Orange County Sherriff's Office of their intent to sue. According to the attorney, the lawsuit will claim false imprisonment, illegal detainment, defamation of character, and a violation of her civil rights.

Marijuana vs. CBD Oil

CBD oil is extracted from the flowers of marijuana plants. Unlike marijuana, CBD oil doesn't contain THC, so it doesn't produce a high. So, why would people want to use it? Well, it has been found that it has a number of medicinal benefits.

Even though CBD oil doesn't have a psychoactive effect, it's still not legal in every state. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), however, has removed CBD products with less than 0.1% THC from its drug schedule. It's clear that marijuana and its extracts aren't going anywhere, so the legalization efforts are likely to continue throughout the states.

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