Drug-related crimes are treated differently based on a variety of factors. The kind of drug you’re caught with, how much you have, the state you live in, your past record, and whether or not minors are involved can all influence the punishment you’re given. A-EZ Out is dedicated to helping arrestees understand the legal process, so here are a few examples of different drug charges and their consequences.
Drug Paraphernalia
‘Paraphernalia’ refers to anything used to inhale, inject, produce, conceal, carry, or ingest drugs. This can include needles, pipes, rolling papers, bongs, and other items that appear to have drug residue on them. Even if the item you have is legally sold for tobacco use, you can still be charged if the officers suspect it has been used with drugs. This is a minor charge in Texas, and is typically treated as a class C misdemeanor.
Possession of Drugs
If you’re found with a small amount of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or any other illegal drug, you might only be charged with possession. Larger amounts of drugs, or drugs that have been split up into multiple plastic baggies, can escalate the charge to possession with intent to distribute. Texas is very strict about drug possession. You could face anywhere from 180 days to 2 years in jail for possession of less than 20 units, as well as a fine up to $10,000.
Drug Manufacturing and Delivery
If you’re involved in any step of the drug-making process, you can be charged with drug manufacturing. Growing marijuana plants, for example, is considered manufacturing in Texas. If the court is successfully able to prove your intent to distribute, you could face anywhere from 10 years to life in prison.
Drug Dealing and Trafficking
Drug dealing refers to the distribution of drugs in small amounts. This is a less severe charge than drug trafficking, which is used to describe moving and distributing of drugs in much larger amounts. Texas law refers to both charges as different levels of drug trafficking, and the penalty depends on how much you’re caught with. Less than one gram is a state jail felony which can result in 180 days to 2 years in a state jail with a fine of up to $10,000. Anything over 4 grams is a first degree felony, and can get you sent to prison for at least 5 years and up to life in prison.
24/7 Bail Bonds with A-EZ Out
If you or a loved one has been arrested on drug-related charges, A-EZ Out can help. Our team of experienced bail bondsmen are available 24/7 to bail you out of any jail in Tarrant, Dallas, Denton, and Collin counties. Most of our locations are very close to the municipal jails center, which means we can get you out faster than other bondsmen. Call or visit our website to get in touch with an experienced bail bondsman today!