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Legal Consequences for Meth

Methamphetamines, or more commonly known as crystal-meth, krank, speed, tina, tweak or ice, is an extremely dangerous drug. Meth has similar affects to cocaine and sometimes is referred to "poor man's cocaine." The use of meth began as a drug for truckers who wanted to stay awake for a long time; however, it has now spread into mainstream usage. Not only is it a dangerous drugs, the legal consequences are quite severe.

  1. Punishment for Retailers

    • Due to the high usage and manufacturing of meth, laws have been placed into affect that can fine retail stores. Meth is made from many over-the-counter medicines, so it is quite easy to manufacture. Laws passed in 2006 helped put a limit on the purchase of some of the ingredients involved in making the drug. Retailers need to keep these medicines behind the counter and buyers need to show ID when buying the affected products. If a store is found to be in violation, the owner will be heavily fined or spend some time in jail.

    Felony Charges

    • The amount of meth found on a person determines the severity of the charge. Possession of meth is a serious crime, and people are often charged with a first, second or third degree felony. If a large amount is found on a person, they can be charged with an intent to sell or distribute.

    Jail Time

    • The amount of jail time given to an offender depends on the person and his history or record. If a person has a clean record and is found in possession of meth, he will most likely spend a few months in the county jail. However, if he is caught selling or making meth, the jail time penalties are very severe, often involving several years.

    Meth Labs

    • Any place can be turned into a meth lab. They are often found in homes, motels, sheds and trailers. Meth labs are extremely dangerous and chemicals can severely hurt a person. The chemicals will stay in the particular building for a very long time. For police to be able to charge someone with manufacturing meth, they need to find the lab and all of its chemicals and equipment. If all of the equipment is not found, a person can only be charged with an attempt to manufacture, which is a less severe penalty.

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