Young man’s death in jail sparks protests

On Sunday, March 20 Jeffrey Pendleton was found dead in a Hillsborough County jail cell.  He was being held on charges of marijuana possession after being unable to afford $100 bail.

The state is investigating Pendleton’s death.  The cause of death is still unknown, but supporters of a minimum wage increase and marijuana decriminalization hope Pendleton’s death is a catalyst for policy changes.

On Friday, March 25 a group in favor of raising the minimum wage protested Pendleton’s death outside the Hillsborough County jail.  Pendleton was a homeless fast food worker and had participated in other demonstrations in favor of raising the minimum wage.  Members of the group argue that a higher minimum wage might have enabled Pendleton to afford bail, potentially preventing his death behind bars.

The New Hampshire House and Senate rejected several proposals to raise the minimum wage this year.  Opponents of raising the minimum wage argue that an increase would force businesses to cut jobs, hurting the very same low income residents policymakers want to help.

Rep. Renny Cushing has a different take on the lessons to be learned from Pendleton’s death.  He stopped by Friday’s protest and advocated for decriminalizing marijuana.

“Possession of marijuana shouldn't be a death sentence,” said Cushing.

Rep. Elizabeth Edwards similarly told WMUR that “Pendleton's case highlights the need for prison reform and fair sentencing.”

The House recently voted in favor of a marijuana decriminalization bill.  However, opponents are concerned that decriminalization sends the wrong message when the state is in the middle of a drug abuse crisis.