Law enforcement is often tasked with identifying and pioneering community efforts on contemporary and future issues. This role has been called upon more frequently, particularly in the case of the San Jose Police Department, as the concept of community policing has been implemented. The manner in which the department responds to critical social issues, such as the legal use of marijuana for medicinal purposes, can affect the level of trust the community has in the department and the overall effectiveness of the department as it serves the community. Proposition 215, passed by California voters in 1996 to legalize the medical use of marijuana, has generated emotional controversy, political impact, opportunities for profit, and social consequences. Based on trends and events, a scenario involving the legal use of marijuana for medicinal purposes and its impact on the San Jose Police Department is detailed. The analysis concludes the department needs to anticipate and manage the effects of the law with respect to both police leadership and community safety. 29 endnotes