Drug Possession
Drug Possession and Penalties
Depending on the level of offense, punishments in relation to drug possession vary from steep fines to time behind bars. According to research, drug offenders are being prosecuted more frequently for minor infractions. Currently, between 20 and 30 percent of arrests are due to drug possession or trafficking offenses.
Holding a controlled substance on your person or being in control of drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, LSD, methamphetamines, or unapproved prescription medication constitutes drug possession. Having any drug paraphernalia or materials used in the distribution or manufacturing of controlled substances may also justify a drug possession charge.
Whether a person is accused of drug possession or drug possession with the intent to sell is dependent upon five variables. These include:
· Amount of the drug present
· Methods of storing the drug
· Drug location
· Possession of a scale or other equipment used for drug circulation
· Having abnormal amounts of cash
Penalties
If you are caught with drugs that you intend to distribute, the consequences are typically much harsher than the charges one would face for basic possession. Penalties differ based on the quantity of drugs present and the number of prior drug conviction(s). Punishments are also steeper in regards to narcotics in one’s possession that have a greater potency and ability to cause physical harm, or even death in the event of an overdose. For instance, the ramifications for marijuana possession are usually not as severe as those for having an equivalent amount of cocaine or heroin.
If it can be proven that the possessor of the drugs planned or attempted to sell them to a minor, penalties are frequently twice as steep. Having drugs in your possession in a school zone or in close proximity to a college or daycare center may also call for stern punishments. Offenders can be:
· Sentenced to prison.
· Fined.
· Receive probation.
· Ordered to attend drug abuse treatment programs.
Numerous regions throughout the US strictly enforce minimum penalties for anyone with drugs in their possession in spite of whatever excuses they can conjure up. If someone is pulled over for DUI suspicion, and they reveal that there are drugs inside the vehicle as well, it is very likely that person could face two separate charges: driving under the influence and drug possession.
Content written by
DUI Foundation
in order to better assist those who are facing or know someone who is facing DUI charges.
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