An Army Reserve major has had his promotion to lieutenant colonel rescinded and was issued a formal reprimand over his ownership stake in a New York dispensary, Task & Purpose reports. Maj. William Norgard contends that his business ventures do not violate military regulations, but said last year he was investigated for allegedly illegally possessing and distributing cannabis, and his position was eliminated.
“We were operating legally within the bounds of the state in New York, and we do not cross federal lines in business. So, I don’t know how you could claim that it’s only illegal for somebody who’s maybe in the Guard and Reserve, but it’s not illegal for any other U.S. citizen.” — Norgard to Task & Purpose
In a statement, Christopher Surridge, a spokesperson for the Army, told Task & Purpose that “any member of the U.S. Army who wrongfully uses, manufactures, and/or distributes marijuana could face action” under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, including a court-martial proceeding for wrongful use and possession of controlled substances.
Norgard’s attorney, Christopher Nineviller, indicated he is filing a response to the letter of reprimand he received, and if that fails, he will seek relief with the Army Board of Correction of Military Records. Ultimately, he thinks the case will end up in court.
