Drug charges can be very complex and could result in severe penalties. Many drugs are illegally used in Pennsylvania. If these substances are taken into state control, they can result in severe legal consequences.
A skilled criminal defense attorney can help with any drug charges that you might be facing. A criminal defense lawyer is the best and most important thing you can do if you are accused of a drug-related crime.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), creates a schedule to list the most common drugs implicated in drug-related offenses.
This schedule classifies drugs according to their potential abuse and medical use. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you learn more about drug cases. Visit their website.
Here is a quick overview on some of the most harmful drugs that could lead to a Pennsylvania drug conviction:
Diacetylmorphine
One example is dicetylmorphine. It is a chemical compound that can be found in heroin. It is a narcotic that causes the brain to release endorphins, which give rise to euphoria.
It is widely used to make opium, which is then combined into morphine. Heroin is illegal due to its pharmacological effects. However, diacetylmorphine falls under drug charges.
Pennsylvania saw a significant rise in drug cases involving Diacetylmorphine. These cases were more than ten times higher than 2003.
The law allows for a minimum of one year imprisonment and a $5,000 fine for anyone caught with more than 10 grams. Minimum three years in prison and a maximum of $15,000.
Anyone caught with more that 50g could face a minimum of three years imprisonment and a $15,000.
Benzoylmethylecgonine
Cocaine contains a substance known as benzoylmethylecgonine, which is also included in medications prescribed for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and anxiety reduction. It is also known by the active ingredient, or alkaloid, of cocaine.
The Controlled Substances Act also classifies benzoylmethylecgonine as a Schedule I drug, designating it as a chemical with a very high potential for abuse and no currently recognized medicinal value. Drug charges involving benzoylmethylecgonine are increasing rapidly in Pennsylvania.
In 2003, these charges were rare. In 2011, however, there were more than 100 such cases. The maximum penalties are five years imprisonment and $10,000 for possession of more that 10 grams of this substance.
Anyone found with more that 50 grams could receive a minimum sentence of three to five years. This offense could result in a maximum sentence of 20 years.
Tetrahydrocannabinol
Tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC, is one of the main compounds found naturally in the marijuana plant. THC is the main ingredient in marijuana that makes it addictive.
Schedule I of The Controlled Substances Act lists Tetrahydrocannabinol. It is very susceptible to abuse, and currently has no medical use.
Pennsylvania drug charges for Tetrahydrocannabinol are increasing. Pennsylvania police arrested more than 50 people in 2011 for the possession, manufacture, or sale this drug.
A person who is found with 50 grams or more of the substance could be sentenced to between three and 15 years imprisonment, as well as a $10,000-$250,000 fine.
LSD
LSD, a hallucinogenic drug that can cause physical and mental disorders, has been shown to cause these conditions. This substance is not recommended for medical use because of the high possibility of abuse.
LSD-related drug offenses in Pennsylvania were widespread before 2000. In 2013, more than 90 people were detained by police for possessing the drug.
These cases have decreased in number since then. The maximum sentence for possession of substance can be seven years in prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Opium
Opium is the dried milky exudate of certain poppy seedpod varieties. It is most common in Southeast Asia. The “scoop”, the tool that is used to extract opium poppy plants from their flowers, almost looks like a small spatula or shovel.
Opium can also be used to make heroin or morphine. Both of these substances are illegal. Opium can also come as a brownish-white powder that can be smoked, injected or consumed orally.
Pennsylvania is experiencing an increase in drug-related charges due to opium. This is because more people are involved in the production and distribution of the drug.
Possession of more that 10 grams can result in a maximum sentence up to 5 years and a $10,000 fine. Prison sentences could also be possible.
Possession of more than 50g could result in a maximum sentence of three-years imprisonment. Possession of more than 20 grams could result in a maximum sentence of 20 years, as well as fines between $10,000 and $750,000.
Xanax
Xanax is also known as a benzodiazepine and can be used to treat anxiety disorders. It works quickly as a tranquilizer drug, and it takes effect in under an hour.
Pennsylvania has seen a significant increase in drug-related charges involving Xanax. If you are arrested for possession, manufacturing, or sale of this drug, it is important to immediately seek legal help.
Xanax is covered by Schedule IV under the Controlled Substances Act. It is considered moderately dangerous and can only be used for medical purposes under strict restrictions. Possession of Xanax weighing over 10g could result in a sentence of up to five years imprisonment or $10,000.
Pennsylvania is experiencing an increase in drug-related cases. This is partly due to the rise in opioid addiction. The state is working hard to solve this problem.
There are many different types of drugs, and each one has its own effects. Dealers in drugs are always looking for new distribution channels.
