A Pembrokeshire man says he is being falsely accused of drug driving after being stopped with medicinal cannabis in his car.
Ian Birch, 62, from the village of Hayscastle near Haverfordwest, has found himself entangled in a legal battle.
Prescribed medicinal cannabis for anxiety and nerve pain, Ian has been using a vaporiser for his treatment for two years.
According to UK law, people prescribed medicinal can drive if they have taken their prescription - but should not drive if they feel impaired.
Drivers found above these limits or impaired face penalties including a minimum 1-year driving ban, an unlimited fine, and up to 6 months in prison, while for for prescription medication, drivers should carry proof of their prescription if stopped.
Ian said: “I’ve done everything right, it’s all above board, following government guidelines. But now, I’m being treated like a criminal, it’s outrageous.”
Six months ago, Ian was stopped by police on Oswestry Street in Wrexham while traveling back home late at night after visiting family.
Ian said: “A police officer said my number plate light was faulty, then decided to check the vehicle.
“I told them I was on prescribed medicinal cannabis and showed proof, but they then accused me of forging documents.”
Ian was subjected to a roadside test, arrested, and taken to Newtown Police Station in Wales.
He was then tested for THC - the psychoactive component of cannabis - back at the police station and tested more than double over the legal THC threshold.
Despite being charged with drug driving, the police allowed him to drive himself home afterward, Ian claims.
After his arrest, Ian was told he would be informed within three months if further action would be taken.
Instead, six months later, he received a court summons for December 10th on drug driving charges, leaving him with little time to prepare a defence or secure a solicitor.
Ian said: “I’m being prosecuted for following my prescription - how can this be happening?
“I can’t afford a private solicitor, but don’t want to go with one that’s just provided.
“I’m now facing court with no proper defense lined up.”
Ian says he will be pleading not guilty, but fears he will still be prosecuted.
His health issues include carpal tunnel syndrome in his right hand, osteoarthritis in his left knee, ADHD, and vertigo caused by ear problems.
A former landscape gardener, he had to give up work in 2021 and even abandon hobbies like playing the guitar due to his chronic pain.
Medicinal cannabis has been life-changing for Ian, who said: “I’ve done nothing wrong, I’m being persecuted for taking medicine that helps me live a manageable life.
“This fight is about more than just me - it’s about challenging the stigma and ensuring others in similar situations aren’t treated unfairly.”
The looming legal battle is taking a toll on Ian, who fears losing his driver’s license.
Both Welshpool Magistrates’ Court and Dyfed-Powys Police said they could not comment while the case was active.