Shona Banda accepts plea deal, plans to move to Spokane

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WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – It’s a time of mixed emotions for Shona Banda.

“I have cried more this week than I have in two years,” she told KSN before leaving for Spokane, Washington Thursday.

In those two years since her initial arrest, she’s battled Crohn’s disease in the hospital.

“I had 20 surgeries, many organs removed.”

On Tuesday, Banda accepted a plea deal from Finney County in the case against her regarding marijuana and child endangerment charges in exchange for probation. Banda said the plea deal is a 12-month “write in” probation.

While she is relieved, she is also disappointed.

“Because, I still really feel like I could have won in trial. I’m just physically not able to go forward and continue any longer.”

The non-reporting probation allows her to move to Washington State where both medicinal and recreational marijuana use is legal.

“This is the wisest decision I can make for myself at this time, so I can be here for my children.”

Her response to those who say she was knowingly breaking the law in Kansas and should have been prepared for the consequences.

“It’s my duty as a citizen of this country to recognize an unjust law and not follow that unjust law and do everything in my power to change it.”

While she says she still plans to advocate for cannabis oil, she is taking a step back.

I’ve done my part, and it’s time for me to pass the baton to someone else.”

Banda said her focus is now on her health and family.

“I’m so ready to live, I just want to live,” she added.

 

 

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