Typical Drug Crimes that are Most Common in Pennsylvania
Fact 1: In the U.S, the federal budget for controlling drugs was approximately $45 billion in 2024!
Fact 2: As of 2023, 47.7 million U.S citizens aged 12 or older were illegal drug users!
These stats alone are enough to indicate that illegal drug usage is a prevailing issue across the U.S., and naturally, in a place with such a massive number of drug users, drug trafficking must be quite a common practice!
In Pennsylvania, some of the most common drug crimes are related to trafficking, as it is a relatively easy way to earn some quick cash. However appealing the cash might look, remember that these are illegal, and if you are convicted, you may spend a substantial time behind bars!
Also, drug charges in Pennsylvania carry some significant penalties. So, if you get arrested, it’s best to seek help from an experienced Pittsburgh criminal lawyer.
That being said, let’s explore this blog to find out some of the most common and typical drug crimes in Pennsylvania.
Most Common Drug Crimes That You Should Know
Three types of drugs are extensively used, as well as sold across Pennsylvania-
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- Marijuana
In fact, although cocaine use has decreased nationwide, it remains a prevalent issue in Pennsylvania. Many people here enter drug rehabilitation facilities to deal with cocaine addiction even now!
Other than cocaine, heroin has gained quite a popularity. Why so?
Because it costs less, and most importantly, the substance is easily available. Many people from different walks of life, across every gender, are addicted to heroin. As a matter of fact, the extent of heroin and cocaine usage was well indicated from the 611 drug overdose death cases in Philadelphia back in 2014, and 303 drug overdose deaths in Allegheny County.
Another surprising fact. Pennsylvania drug crimes might revolve around heroin and cocaine. However, marijuana still prevails as one of the most commonly used illegal drugs across the state! Even after marijuana has been made legal for medicinal purposes, it remains illegal. At our firm, most of the drug cases our Pittsburgh criminal lawyers work on are of marijuana possession.
Pennsylvania law enforcement has allocated extensive manpower and significant prison sentences for drug trafficking convicts to keep a check on such crimes. So, if you have been held for trafficking, don’t waste time, and call up a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer right away!
Penalties for Drug Crimes
In Pennsylvania, the penalties for drug trafficking depend on the type of drug and the amount that was in possession of the convict.
For instance, if you are caught with less than 30 grams of marijuana, you could get a 30-day imprisonment, along with a $500 fine. So, if you possess more than 30 grams, it might result in a $15,000 fine, along with a year-long imprisonment. Added to that, if you’re caught cultivating marijuana, it becomes a felony, and you could face a $15,000 fine, along with a 5-year imprisonment.
Cocaine happens to be a Schedule II drug. And it comes associated with stricter penalties. Imprisonment ranges from 3- 15 years, and fines can range anywhere from $25,000- $500,000!
Out of all this, heroin trafficking is considered one of the most serious drug crimes. A conviction can lead to a 25-year’ imprisonment, along with fines up to $500,000! Added to that, if you’re caught selling in a school zone or to minors, the penalties can increase.
What to do If You’re Charged With a Drug Infraction?
Drug infractions are one of the most serious charges, and can prove to be life-altering! Therefore, if you see that you’ve been held, make sure to seek legal counsel from our expert Pittsburgh criminal lawyers.
Why so? Well, first of all, our legal team has a profound knowledge of the legal system and knows many intricacies that they apply to help extract the most favorable outcome for you.
And second, our Pittsburgh criminal lawyers at the Logue Law Group are all for justice and believe that everyone should get a second chance in life. So, don’t just think that a drug charge can end your life. Instead, call us at 844.PITT.DUI and book a free consultation today!