FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phoenix, AZ – June 6, 2023 – A groundbreaking ruling by the Arizona Court of Appeals has triggered significant changes in the legal landscape surrounding the Department of Child Safety (DCS) and cannabis. The recent case of Ridgell vs DCS, which highlighted the unjust targeting of Lindsey Ridgell, a former DCS investigator, and medical marijuana patient, has set a precedent for child protection laws. This pivotal case has paved the way for an informative event scheduled for Saturday, June 10, 2023, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at 4140 N Miller Rd.
The Ridgell vs DCS case emerged when Lindsey Ridgell, a responsible medical marijuana patient who strictly followed all regulations, found herself unjustly facing the threat of being added to the Central Registry. This registry labels individuals as unsuitable for working with vulnerable populations, potentially nullifying Ridgell’s educational achievements. Ridgell’s case sheds light on the outdated handbook on Substance Exposed Newborns, which has not undergone revisions since 2008.
To delve into the topic of Substance Exposed Newborns and explore the implications of the Ridgell vs DCS case, an event has been organized. The event will feature prominent figures such as Lindsey Ridgell, her lawyers Julie Gunnigle and Sonia Martinez, and mediator activist Allison Stein. These key participants aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue and discuss the modifications achieved through the Ridgell case.
The ruling in the Ridgell vs DCS case marks a significant turning point in the legal discourse surrounding DCS and cannabis in central and northern Arizona. By highlighting Lindsey Ridgell’s ordeal and the subsequent changes, this event aims to shed light on the broader implications for the community. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the far-reaching impact of this case on the lives of individuals and families in the region.
Julie Gunnigle, the attorney representing Lindsey Ridgell, expressed her satisfaction with the ruling, stating, “This decision not only protects the rights of medical marijuana patients but also safeguards the careers and livelihoods of individuals like Lindsey Ridgell, who have dedicated themselves to serving the community. It is a victory for justice and fairness.”
Sonia Martinez, counsel for Ridgell in Maricopa County Superior Court, emphasized the significance of the event, saying, “The implications of the Ridgell vs DCS case extend beyond the immediate parties involved. By addressing Substance Exposed Newborns and advocating for updated guidelines, we strive to ensure that the welfare of children and families remains a priority amidst evolving societal norms and legal frameworks.”
Allison Stein, a respected mediator activist with expertise in the field of Substance Exposed Newborns, will contribute her insights and experiences to the event. Combined with the expertise of other distinguished experts, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this domain.
This event provides a unique opportunity for the public, legal professionals, healthcare practitioners, educators, and concerned individuals to engage in a productive dialogue on the modifications brought about by the Ridgell vs. DCS case. By fostering a collective understanding, the event aims to promote justice, compassion, and the well-being of children and families in central and northern Arizona.
Join the event taking place this Saturday
Tickets can be found here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/punishing-parents-the-current-status-of-substance-exposed-newborns-in-az-tickets-632877021207