During a New Orleans City Council meeting focused on the deteriorating condition of the police department’s headquarters, Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick highlighted a peculiar issue: rats infiltrating the evidence room and consuming the stored marijuana, presumably leading to some very “high” rodents.

Kirkpatrick’s revelation came amidst a broader discussion on the myriad challenges plaguing the police headquarters, including plumbing woes, mold growth, and various infestations. She emphasized that the problem of uncleanliness extends beyond the main headquarters to other district offices as well.

Although it remains uncertain exactly what form of cannabis the rats have accessed, it’s worth noting that raw marijuana, predominantly composed of THC-A, is not psychoactive without undergoing decarboxylation. Therefore, it’s unlikely the rats are experiencing a high from raw plant material. However, other cannabis products containing active THC, such as edibles or tinctures, could potentially have intoxicating effects on the rodents.

Research on the effects of THC on rodents suggests that exposure to the compound could lead to decreased activity levels and might even alleviate stress in female rats. During the council hearing, Kirkpatrick also mentioned finding rat droppings on employees’ desks, highlighting the severe working conditions staff are subjected to.

The discussion underscored the low morale among police officers, exacerbated by the subpar work environment. Efforts are underway to relocate the police headquarters to a new building, a move deemed more cost-effective than the estimated $30 million required to repair the existing structure.

In Louisiana, recreational marijuana use remains illegal, with penalties for possession of small amounts. However, medical marijuana has been available in dispensaries since 2019. Recent legislative efforts have focused on marijuana expungements, allowing individuals convicted of possessing up to 14 grams of cannabis as a first offense to petition for record clearance.

Public support for adult-use cannabis legalization in Louisiana has seen significant growth, with recent polls indicating a substantial majority in favor. Despite this shift in public opinion, legislative progress toward broader cannabis reform has been slow, with only decriminalization measures being enacted thus far.

The superintendent’s comments shed light on the unexpected intersections of urban wildlife, drug policy, and public infrastructure, presenting a unique challenge for the New Orleans Police Department.