Every state works to control certain drugs. The state of New York not only charges people with drug possession when they are found with marijuana, heroin, and other drugs but also when drivers are in possession of compounds used to make these drugs. Those charged with drug possession need to be aware of what they can expect, so learn about NYC drug possession laws.
Drug Possession Classifications in New York
The state of New York divides drug possession into five classes. Schedule I drugs are the most dangerous, followed by II, III, IV, and V. When charged with a drug possession charge, it will be placed into a class, and each class has different penalties.
Penalties for Selling Controlled Substances
You cannot possess a controlled substance in the state of New York without a valid prescription. The penalties will vary according to the type of controlled substance and the amount in a person’s possession. The following offers information on the possible penalties.
Class A-I Felony
Those found to be in possession of eight or more ounces of a controlled substance listed as a narcotic and 5,760 milligrams or more of methadone can be charged with this felony. Penalties for this class involve up to a $100,000 fine and a minimum of 15 years of jail time and a maximum of 25 years.
Class A-II Felony
There are several drug possession scenarios that may result in a Class A-II felony, including the following. Penalties for this class include fines up to $50,000 and between 15 to 25 years of jail time.
- Four or more ounces of narcotics
- Two or more ounces of meth
- Ten grams or more of stimulants
- 25 milligrams or more of LSD
- 625 milligrams of hallucinogens
- 25 grams or more of a hallucinogenic substance
- 2,880 milligrams or more of methadone
Class B Felony
Individuals can be charged with a Class B felony based on the following amounts. A Class B felony leads to fines of up to $30,000 and jail time up to 25 years.
- Half an ounce or more of a narcotic drug
- Five grams or more of a stimulant
- Five milligrams or more of LSD
- Five grams or more of a hallucinogenic drug
- 1,250 milligrams or more of PCP
Class C Felony
Individuals can be charged with a Class C felony for the following. Penalties for a Class C felony include fines of up to $15,000 and up to 15 years in jail.
- One-eighth ounce or more of narcotics
- One-half ounce or more of meth
- One gram or more of a stimulant
- One milligram or more of LSD
- 25 milligrams or more of a hallucinogen
- One gram or more of a hallucinogenic substance
- Ten ounces or more of a dangerous depressant
- Two pounds or more of a depressant
- 250 milligrams or more of PCP
- 360 milligrams or more of methadone
- 4,000 grams or more of ketamine
- 200 grams of GHB
Hire a Lawyer Experienced in NYC Drug Possession Laws
Those charged with one of these felonies need to learn about their legal rights. Possession of controlled substances can lead to serious charges and hefty penalties. Those who have been charged should contact a drug crime lawyer as soon as possible.