Magistrate finds violation in Edgewater cannabis citation, reduces fine to $200 and continues case to Jan. 9

Special Magistrate Jacob Schumer found that Edgewater resident Omarion Brown violated the city's municipal code for possession of cannabis during a traffic stop and reduced the city's recommended citation from $300 to $200. Officer Joshua Fager testified the Sept. 27, 2024 traffic stop (approximately 4:40 p.m.) of a blue Kia (Florida tag KU555M) produced the odor of burnt cannabis, three small green-leaf samples and an ash/roach; the items were field-tested with a presumptive reagent, the officer said.

Brown denied possessing a larger quantity, telling the magistrate, "I do deny." Brown admitted a seat-belt violation and acknowledged a burned roach but disputed the presence of 'nugs' or larger amounts. Schumer said he would find a violation but reduce the fine and explained the city sets the fine schedule that the magistrate may adjust. "I'm gonna find a violation. I'm gonna reduce the fine to $200," Schumer said. The magistrate continued the matter to Jan. 9 and said the city would consider waiving or further reducing the citation if Brown provides a valid medical marijuana registry card by that date; the city advised unpaid citations move to the clerk of court after 30–45 days.

The hearing record shows the city did not pursue criminal charges and released Brown at the scene with a municipal citation. The magistrate's order as announced reduces the immediate monetary penalty and defers final administrative disposition pending Brown's submission of documentation at the next hearing.