While all recreational drugs are illegal in most states across this country, cocaine is one that has stiff penalties in most of the states, with even federal warnings about cocaine trafficking, possession, distribution, sale, and more. In fact, the street version of cocaine, crack cocaine, is the only drug with a mandatory federal minimum sentence of 5 years in jail. It is estimated that drug Abuse and addiction, including that of cocaine, cost this country over one-half trillion dollars every year. As a result, the laws against cocaine possession are stiff, even for small amounts of the drug.
Charges for Cocaine Possession and Sentencing
The law is clear that in most states, possession of even small amounts of cocaine is a Felony, with heavy fines, jail time, and possibly more, including:
- Fines of between $1,000 and $500,000
- Jail time of 4 months to 15 years
- Counseling
- In some cases, having the vehicle in which the cocaine was transported confiscated
- In some cases, driver’s license suspension
- Loss of federal benefits, such as student loans, grants, contracts, and professional licenses for as much as 5 years
Possession is the lightest charge associated with cocaine, and the penalties vary by the quantity of the drug, which is found on the person. Sentences can also depend on where the offender was when they were found in possession of the drug. Those found in close proximity to schools, day care centers, public housing, school buses, and youth centers might have more severe penalties.
Cocaine Possession Penalties
Clearly, the penalties for cocaine possession are severe and can cause consequences for a lifetime. While some states have minimum penalties, others do not. In those cases, for a first offense and when only a minute amount of cocaine is found, there may be no arrest at all. However, the penalties increase with repeat offenders or larger quantities of this stimulant.
In fact, the greater the quantity of the drug found in someone’s possession, the more likely the authorities are to believe that the offender is planning to distribute the drug, and that crime carries much higher penalties, as well.
Many people also get pulled over and charged for driving under the influence of cocaine, where a whole set of other penalties and charges can apply in addition to possession.
Help from a Lawyer for Cocaine Charges
It is very important to consult a criminal attorney when charged with possession of cocaine. The penalties can be harsh, and if a lawyer can help convince a judge that there was no intent to distribute, and that there were extenuating circumstances, it may be easier to have the charges reduced or even dismissed.
