Taking a look at the different drug-related offenses

Posted By Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass || 11-Sep-2014

While drug laws vary from one state to another, the consequences of a conviction present serious challenges. In addition to prison time, people who are charged with a drug crime often experience problems in their personal and professional life as well. There are a number of drug-related offenses people are accused of committing and the penalties for each crime vary.

FindLaw.com explored some of the different drug crimes people are charged with and noted that federal drug charges often carry harsher punishments. For example, when people are caught with a syringe, bong or any other device used to conceal, prepare or consume illicit drugs, they could face possession of drug paraphernalia charges. If someone has an illegal substance on them, such as cocaine or heroin, an officer could charge them with possession.

When someone is connected to any part of the production process, they could face charges pertaining to drug manufacturing. Or, if they have been caught transporting, importing or selling illegal drugs, they could face felony drug trafficking and distribution charges, which often carry severe consequences. However, if they were found to be selling a miniscule amount of drugs, they could face drug dealing charges, which usually carry softer penalties than trafficking.

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the number of people arrested for drug-related offenses has been rising in recent years. Furthermore, research shows that more than 80 percent of people were apprehended for possession. With an increasing number of people being taken into custody, it is important for those who are facing these charges to clearly understand all of their legal options.