Officer Kristopher D. Rich has been a member of the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) since 2020, according to city records. His journey in law enforcement has taken a complex turn recently, raising important questions about the intersection of medical marijuana use and police regulations.
In early April 2025, Officer Rich was required to undergo a mandatory drug test as part of his job. The results showed that he tested positive for marijuana. While this might seem straightforward, the situation became more complicated when Rich explained that he had started using medical marijuana in May 2024 for an undisclosed health issue. He mentioned that he takes THC gummies every night before bed. However, he admitted that he did not inform SAPD about his medical marijuana use before the test, despite holding a valid prescription.
Rich has expressed that his use of medical marijuana is a “consequence” of his service with SAPD, hinting at challenges that some law enforcement officers might face. Even though medical marijuana is permitted under Texas law, it remains illegal under federal law. This presents a significant issue for officers like Rich, who are required to carry firearms as part of their duties.
The ability to carry a firearm is deemed essential for law enforcement officers. Therefore, it is crucial for them to adhere to both state and federal regulations regarding drug use. Initially, Rich faced an indefinite suspension due to the positive drug test; however, this penalty was later reduced to a 30-day suspension along with a last chance agreement, allowing him to return to work with specific conditions.
Rich’s suspension concluded in January 2026, and his case highlights the ongoing debate about medical marijuana use among public servants. As laws evolve, it remains to be seen how they will impact officers in similar situations and what changes might occur in policies surrounding drug use in law enforcement.
