Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

In what manner is illegally sold marijuana typically packaged?

1. Glass jars

2. Plastic bags

3. Cardboard boxes

4. Aluminum foil

The correct answer is: Plastic bags

Illegally sold marijuana is most commonly packaged in plastic bags due to a combination of factors, including convenience and discretion. Plastic bags are easy to seal, providing a reliable method for keeping the product fresh while also being lightweight and portable for sellers. Additionally, the use of plastic bags allows for a degree of anonymity, as they can be easily stored and transported without drawing too much attention. Glass jars, while they can be used, are less common in illegal sales primarily due to their weight and the risk of breakage during transport. Cardboard boxes are typically used for bulk storage or shipping rather than individual sales and do not offer the same level of convenience for illegal transactions. Aluminum foil, while it can be used for various packaging purposes, is not practical for securely storing marijuana and may not provide the necessary protection against humidity and damage. The prevalence of plastic bags in this context underscores the need for familiarity with how illicit substances are commonly handled within the criminal justice framework, which can aid in understanding evidence collection and trafficking patterns.