What are the sentences for possession of a controlled substance in Ohio?

The Ohio statute that sets forth the classifications of crimes involving possession of a controlled substance is lengthy, and primarily organized by the type and quantity of the controlled substance that you possess.  Your criminal history and past convictions for criminal offenses involving controlled substances also may have a bearing on the classification of the crime with which you are charged, and thus, on the length of the sentence that you receive.  As a result, sentences for the possession of a controlled substance in the state of Ohio may vary widely. 

For instance, possession of a very large amount of certain controlled substance can result in a conviction of a felony of the first degree, which, under Ohio law, carries a prison sentence of three to ten years.  On the other hand, possession of a very small amount of marijuana can result in a conviction of a misdemeanor of the first degree, which carries a maximum jail sentence of six months.  Generally, convictions for the possession of small amounts of drugs such as marijuana, hashish, heroin, cocaine, and L.S.D. carry much lighter sentences than those for harder drugs, such as crack cocaine.  Additionally, there are specific factors that may aggravate the possession of a controlled substance, which may, in turn, increase the sentence and/or establish a mandatory prison term if you are convicted of that offense.