People may think of a drug such as methamphetamine and understand that this substance is dangerous and addictive. Thus, this drug is made illegal to possess in Indiana. However, even less dangerous or addictive drugs such as marijuana are also illegal to possess in Indiana. Some people may feel like some of these drugs are essentially harmless, in that they do not cause the user or anyone else harm. However, Indiana law disagrees and makes possession of illicit drugs illegal.
If a person possesses under five grams of meth, it is a Level 6 felony. If a person possesses under five grams of meth, but there are enhanced circumstances, it is a Level 5 felony. It is also a Level 5 felony if a person possesses at least five but under 10 grams of meth. However, if a person possesses at least five but under 10 grams of meth and there are enhanced circumstances, it is a Level 4 felony. It is also a Level 4 felony if a person possesses at least 10 but under 28 grams of meth. If a person possesses at least 10 but under 28 grams of meth and there are enhanced circumstances it is a Level 3 felony. It is also a Level 3 felony if a person possesses 28 grams of meth or more.
When it comes to the possession of marijuana, unless the limited circumstances for medical cannabidiol apply, if a person intentionally and knowingly is in possession of the marijuana, in general it is a Class B misdemeanor. However, it is a Class A misdemeanor if a person possesses marijuana and has a prior drug offense conviction on their record. In addition, possession of marijuana is a Level 6 felony if the person possesses at least 30 grams of marijuana and has a prior drug offense conviction on their record.
So, whether a person is in possession of marijuana or a more addictive and dangerous substance, such as meth, if convicted of possession a person can expect some harsh penalties. Felony possession charges not only come with significant jail time and fines, but a conviction could result in a criminal record that changes a person’s life forever. Therefore, it is important to lodge a strong defense against drug charges, to avoid being convicted and thus penalized.
