Legendary activist, tireless advocate for Michigan Cannabis legalization, and frontline soldier for those affected by the war on cannabis.
You will be remembered and have a chapter in the history of the end of cannabis prohibition.
Carry on wherever you are. Carry on.
#michiganrickthompson
DALE “RICK” THOMPSON
DOD 9-18-23
MLive
Michigan marijuana legalization ‘warrior’ Rick Thompson dead at 57
FLUSHING, MI — Five years ago, marijuana advocate Dale “Rick” Thompson and others delivered petitions that would lead to marijuana legalization in Michigan. He was proud.
As Michigan’s multi-billion-dollar marijuana industry continues to grow and thrive, Thompson recently lay dying of cancer reflecting on his life.
Through the pain and sickness, Thompson maintained his sarcastic wit, poise and compassion for others, friends say.
The 57-year-old father of three children, and a grandfather, died at his home with family in Flushing, where he lived with his elderly mother, on the morning of Sept. 18. He was diagnosed with colon cancer nearly three months ago.
Thompson, a 1983 Flint Central High School graduate, attended the University of Michigan-Flint and Northern Michigan University. He worked in retail as manager at Art Van Furniture before devoting himself to the cannabis legalization movement full time in about 2010.
Thompson’s work revolved around marijuana, a plant, but it was the people who used that plant who motivated and inspired him, said Anton Harb Jr., a friend of Thompson’s and an advocate for veteran marijuana access.
“His greatest superpower was his empathy,” said Harb, who’s looked up to Thompson as a mentor since they met in 2018. “He loved life, he loved cannabis and he loved seeing a smile on people’s faces.”
Since about 2010, if there was a battle in Michigan surrounding legalization or access to marijuana, Thompson was on the frontlines.
“Warrior,” “advocate” and “crusader” are some of the words friends and colleagues used to describe him following news of his death.
More posts
MI Court of Appeals – MRTMA defense denied dismissal
Does the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act protect you in all Marijuana scenarios?The Conflict The central issue in this interlocutory appeal is whether the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MRTMA), MCL 333.27951 et seq., prevents a...
The “Automobile Exception” in Michigan law
The "automobile exception" in Michigan law allows police to search a vehicle without a warrant if they have probable cause to believe it contains evidence of a crime.This exception is grounded in the idea that vehicles are inherently mobile, meaning evidence could be...
Can You Be Charged for Using Your Phone During a Crime in Michigan?
Your breaking the law if you are using a cellphone while driving. On top of that if you're committing a crime and you use the phone... You're in for a prosecutor's extra round of office high fives.Can You Be Charged for Using Your Phone During a Crime in Michigan?...
The search being challenged was triggered by the odor of cannabis
The case People of Michigan v. Freddie Wilkins III (No. 367209) revolves around a legal challenge regarding the search of a vehicle without a warrant.Police conducted a warrantless search under the "automobile exception."The case People of Michigan v. Freddie Wilkins...
Prohibited person possessing firearm
Thinking about going hunting? Not if you are a person who is prohibited from possessing a firearm in Michigan.In Michigan, certain individuals are legally prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm. Being caught with a firearm if you fall under this category can...
Carrying a Concealed Weapon in Michigan
Carrying a concealed weapon (CCW) in Michigan without proper authorization is a crime.Carrying a concealed weapon (CCW) in Michigan without proper authorization can lead to serious criminal charges. Michigan law has strict regulations regarding firearms, and violating...
MI Supreme Court Declines to Intervene in Public Records Dispute
Michigan Supreme Court Declines to Intervene in Public Records DisputeTeachers Union and School District at Odds Over Data AccessThe Michigan Supreme Court recently declined to hear a case regarding whether public school teachers' class materials are subject to the...
Felony Firearm Possession in Michigan
Felony Firearm Possession in Michigan.In Michigan, the laws surrounding firearms are strict, especially when it comes to felony firearm possession. If you’re charged with a felony and found to be in possession of a firearm during the crime, the penalties can be...
Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter for “Stopping” Thief
Charge with involuntary manslaughter for stopping thief.PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF MICHIGAN V. HASSAN WALID AIYASHCase Summary: This case revolves around a gas station attendant who was charged with involuntary manslaughter after a patron was fatally shot inside the...
Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance in Michigan
Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance in MichiganIn Michigan, being caught with illegal drugs can lead to serious consequences. The state has strict laws on drug possession, and unlawful possession of a controlled substance is one of the most common charges....
