Of course it's his celebrity that got this going. Were it you or me, the media wouldn't have made such a big friggin deal about it for days/weeks. You never would have seen us on the cover pages of magazines and papers, or be the opening stories on the network news programs disecting our infamous bonghit. But we don't have an olympic athlete's image on the line, either.

What's the sheriff going to do, avoid doing his job? Show the watchful nation that in his state, his officers occationally look the other way if they don't agree with the law? I know it's not like Phelps was photographed slapping a hooker. Regardless...the cops don't make the law, but they have been sworn to uphold it. (especially when the cameras are rolling) In the face of the media frenzy, I'd have been surprised if they didn't send the message that this is inappropriate public behavior. If you do something stupid in public, it's only fair you get a "I'm a stupid-person" penalty. Likely they'll get a suspended sentence or a small fine, same as everyone else.

With regards to your friend...who the fuck smokes Pringles flavored pot...? (kidding)
Lets see...45 grams is almost two ounces. He got a ticket for 3 grams, and you think he got screwed? Sounds to me like he was done a favor, big time.