Data for 2018 indicates that there were about 2,096 drug-related offenses that were reported in Chester County. In 2017, the state of Pennsylvania saw a rise in drug abuse violations for a second consecutive year. Drug abuse violations are those which include possessing, using, growing, or manufacturing of illegal drugs.
|
Pennsylvania |
2013 |
2014 |
2015 |
2016 |
2017 |
|
Drug-Related Offenses |
56,553 |
56,703 |
56,121 |
59,074 |
63,637 |
Chester County Drug Court
The Chester County Drug Court was the second of its kind in Pennsylvania. The program consists of four distinct phases that span from 12 to 24 months. Entrance into the program is reserved for nonviolent offenders faced with drug-related or DUI charges. The formal description of the court's purpose is “disposition in lieu of trial or criminal punishment.” To be completed, participants must remain free from using drugs and alcohol and pay off all fines and court costs. Those who meet the requirements may have their charges dismissed and no evidence of the offense will remain on their record.
Pennsylvania Drug Offenses
In 1972, the state implemented the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device & Cosmetic Act that defined and categorized the various prohibited and/or controlled substances. Controlled substances are those that are subject to abuse and may create mental and physical dependence. They are classified into five categories described as follows:
- Schedule I: These substances have a high likelihood of being abused, are generally unsafe, and have very limited medical purposes in the U.S. Examples include opioid analgesic drugs including Diethylthiambutene, Ethylmethylthiambutene, and Clonitazene, which are all much stronger than morphine. Hallucinogens such as LSD also are in this category.
- Schedule II: These drugs have the potential to be abused, but also have been deemed as having medical purposes. Unlike many of the Schedule I substances, they have been branded and marketed to some extent. Examples include cocaine, methadone, and methamphetamine.
- Schedule III: Have a lower potential for abuse including buprenorphine and those of blended aspirin and codeine.
- Schedule IV: Have a low potential for abuse and dependence. Examples include Valium, Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Schedule V: Some of these include substances used for the treatment of nasal problems, diarrhea, and others.
Summary of Common Drug Offenses and Penalties
|
Offense |
Max. Jail Time |
Max. Fine |
|
Marijuana Possession (under 30 grams) |
Up to 30 days |
$500 |
|
Marijuana Possession (over 30 grams) |
Up to 1 Year |
$5000 |
|
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia |
Up to 1 Year |
$2,500 |
|
Cocaine w/ Intent to Deliver 2-10 grams |
Up to 1 Year |
$5000 |
|
Cocaine w/ Intent to Deliver 2-10 grams (w/prior offense) |
Up to 3 Years |
$10,000 |
|
Cocaine w/ Intent to Deliver 10-100 grams |
Up to 3 Years |
$15,000 |
Having an Experienced Defense Attorney
When charged with drug-related offenses in Chester County it is critical that you choose your defense counsel carefully. In 2017, there were over 1.3 million arrests for drug possession alone! The “war on drugs” has led to significant penalties including jail time, fines, and even a loss of driving privileges for certain offenses. It is very important that your attorney is very familiar with today's complex and rapidly changing laws and penalties.
Drug Offense Lawyer in Chester County
Attorney Joseph D. Lento will diligently review the circumstances and evidence associated with your arrest. Based on these findings, a comprehensive defense strategy can be established. For a complimentary case evaluation, contact the office today at (888) 535-3686.
