Illinois’ Most Common Drug Crimes

 Posted on February 12, 2024 in Drug Offenses

Drug crimes are one of the most common types of crime committed across the nation and are a particular problem in Illinois. Drug crime convictions can detrimentally impact your life in many ways for many years. The types of drug crimes that occur in Illinois vary but some are more common than others. Do not allow a drug charge to destroy your life and career prospects. Instead, contact a skilled criminal defense attorney immediately following any charges so that they can get to work right away on safeguarding your future.

Illegal Possession of a Controlled Substance

It is illegal to possess a controlled substance such as heroin or cocaine in the state of Illinois. The possession of either of these drugs is considered a felony charge. However, the punishment will depend on the amount in a person’s possession. This drug crime is without a doubt the most common that a prosecutor will file each year.

Illegal Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Next, with a Class A misdemeanor charge, is the possession of drug paraphernalia. Drug paraphernalia generally includes things such as:

• Pipes and bongs

• Roach clips

• Grinders or sifters

• Growing kits

A conviction for a Class A misdemeanor can result in up to a year in jail and up to a $2,500 fine. Punishments are increased for those who allow those under the age of 18 to use their drug paraphernalia. In these cases, the person who owns the paraphernalia can be charged and, if convicted, face one to three years imprisonment and up to a $25,000 fine. Should the minor die as a result of using the drug paraphernalia, then the person responsible can face a Class 3 felony, which carries a sentence of two to five years in prison and up to a $25,000 fine.

Illegal Manufacturing of a Controlled Substance

The unauthorized production, compounding, or processing of controlled substances is another common drug crime in Illinois with steep penalties for a conviction. The volume and type of drug manufactured will determine the penalties a drug manufacturer will face. The typical charge for the unauthorized manufacturing of controlled substances is a Class 1 felony.

Trafficking and Distribution of a Controlled Substance

Transporting drugs into the United States is considered trafficking a controlled substance. Delivering controlled substances with the intent to distribute is also a serious felony in Illinois. Distribution is the exchange of drugs from the party selling them to another party purchasing them. Drug trafficking carries the highest penalty for drug crimes, with a minimum prison sentence of six years and massive fines. Distribution is a felony charge that carries its own jail time and fines.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Criminal Defense Attorney

No matter which drug charge you are facing, you will not want to face it alone. Do yourself a favor and procure an experienced Naperville, IL drug crimes defense lawyer to do the heavy lifting. The Law Office of Philip R. Nathe will put forth every resource at their disposal to mount the best defense they can on your behalf. Contact the office today for a free consultation at 630-416-7600.