Danish couple face 10 years in prison for selling cannabis to cancer patients

Danish police have arrested a man and a woman on suspicion of selling cannabis to patients with cancer or other serious illnesses. The couple, who have been in custody since last Tuesday, face up to 10 years in prison.

Claus Nielsen had previously admitted to selling cannabis and had spoken about it to the Danish media, even though he knew—in his own words—that he would likely be arrested one day.

Mr. Nielsen pleaded guilty to the charges against him, but his wife, who was arrested with him, denies any involvement in drug sales.

Mr. Nielsen became convinced of the medical benefits of cannabis when he began consuming cannabis-infused food to treat his osteoarthritis. The treatment worked so well for him that he wanted to offer this opportunity to others.

«It should be up to lab technicians, chemists, and doctors to sell medical cannabis under controlled conditions. I'm no expert, but I have principles, and I stand by them.».

He said he has clients throughout Denmark who suffer from illnesses ranging from cancer to fibromyalgia to multiple sclerosis.

Mr. Nielsen and his wife were both charged under the Danish Narcotics Act. The couple complained that the trial was not public. «The public is aware of this case; there is nothing to hide, and Mr. Nielsen has already spoken about his activities,» said the couple’s attorney, Mr. Kaya. «There is also a documentary about him; nothing about him is a secret.».

Mr. Kaya also said that his client was selling cannabis to help sick people and to pressure the country to change its view of medical cannabis.

«Claus didn’t hide what he was doing and knew it was illegal. That’s why he pleaded guilty,» the lawyer continued. «But he didn’t do it to make money or become a criminal. He did it out in the open and was open and honest about it.».

The legalization of medical cannabis has been the subject of intense debate in Denmark in recent months. One region of the country agreed in August on a provisional plan to begin prescribing cannabis for therapeutic use. Health Minister Sophie Løhde also believes that to conduct a 4-year trial of the legalization of medical cannabis.

A recent poll conducted in June shows that 88% of Danes support the legalization of medical cannabis. A slim majority also favors recreational legalization.