People who have addictions to drugs often don’t think about the criminal penalties of being caught with their drugs. This is simply the nature of addiction. Unfortunately, the criminal justice system doesn’t really take this into consideration. In many cases, the courts will simply punish the criminal action of having the drugs.
While it’s a bit easier to break the addiction cycle of some drugs, this isn’t really the case for a person who’s addicted to cocaine. These individuals need help if they’re going to break that. They may not realize the severity of the criminal penalties they’re facing if they’re found in possession of cocaine.
Penalties for possession of cocaine
The exact charge a person is facing depends on how much cocaine they have in their possession when they’re caught:
- Under one gram: State jail felony
- One to 4 grams: Third degree felony
- Four to 200 grams: Second degree felony
- 200 to 400 grams: First degree felony
- More than 400 grams: Up to life in prison
In some cases, they may be eligible for a reduced sentence if they take specific steps, such as going through drug treatment and having random drug tests done. This is usually only possible for a first-time possession charge on a person who doesn’t have any violent charges.
Facing any drug-related charge can have a considerable impact on your future. It’s best to learn the possible penalties, as well as your defense options, as early in the case as possible. Some options that you have for your defense might be time-sensitive, so be sure to look into these right after you’re charged.
