Anabolic steroids contribute to the growth of muscle mass, which helps to build muscle in a fashion that is more rapid and easier than it would be if one were to do so naturally. The great and well-known quantity of health risks associated with anabolic steroids has not impeded the high rates of its use in the nation. It's usage is universal, as consumers from all demographics - gym rats, bodybuilders, athletes and even the average joe - seek out the drug to improve their athletic performance and appearance. And just as people have decided that the reward far outweighs the risk healthwise, they've also done so in a legal sense, as under the table steroid use is illegal in Pennsylvania.
Due to the effectiveness of illegal steroids, it's not difficult for people to get caught up in using them. People often resort to getting these drugs from friends, dealers or vendors on the internet. Pennsylvania law enforcement has been known to conduct intricate operations by sending out undercover cops under the guise of dealers, or misrepresenting themselves as steroid vendors on the internet to collect evidence of illegal possession.
If you have been caught and charged in one of these operations, it's important you understand what you could be up against. For the purposes of this article, we will address (1) the laws regarding the possession of steroids in Pennsylvania, (2) and the penalties associated with this crime. And as you should know, getting in contact with an attorney upon acquiring charges is the only chance you have to resolve these legal issues.
Possession of Steroid Laws in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the possession of more than 30 doses of anabolic steroid will lead to a possession charge. The premise of these cases is to provide evidence that a defendant did, in fact, actually possess illegal drugs. Therefore, in order to be convicted of the illegal possession of steroids, a prosecutor must prove both of the following elements:
- You knew the drugs were illegal, that they were present, and you had intentions of using them or controlling them
- You had actual or constructive possession of the steroids
Actual possession refers to having the drugs physically on you during an arrest. Having steroids in your pocket, for example, would constitute an actual possession. On the other hand, constructive possession refers to drugs that are discovered in a place that you once had control over. This could include places like your car, under your mattress, or in a bag.
Penalties
Steroids are classified as a schedule III controlled substance. Although many people don't equate the use of steroids to the use of more dangerous street drugs, it is charged similarly to the possession of heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine.
For a first offense, defendants are facing penalties of up to one year in prison and/or $5,000 fine. Subsequent offenses lead to penalties of up to three years in prison.
Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Attorney
If you've been charged with the possession of steroids, or any drug offense, the first step to take is to immediately retain an attorney. An attorney will be able to handle all interactions with the police and prosecutors, and will be able to determine whether the evidence against you is credible. Skilled legal professional Joseph D. Lento is dedicated to providing a solid defense to ultimately get your charges reduced or dismissed. Contact him today for help.
