Minnesota Defense Attorney: Drug Crimes

Chapter 152 of the Minnesota statutes governs drug charges in Minnesota. Minnesota has five degrees of drug crimes. A first degree drug crime is the most serious. Some of the factors used to determine the seriousness of the crime include the type of drug involved, the total weight or dosage of the drugs, and the location at which the offense took place. The Minnesota drug and controlled substance statutes contain many categories of drug offenses:

First Degree Drug Possession
This charge can be brought against anyone carrying more than 25 grams of cocaine, Methamphetamine, or heroin; 500 grams or more of a narcotic such as heroin, cocaine, or meth; 500 grams or more or more than 500 doses of hallucinogens and methamphetamines; 100 kilograms or more of marijuana. The sentence involves up to 30 years in prison and up to $1,000,000 in fines.

Second Degree Drug Possession
This charge can be brought against anyone caught in possession of 6 grams or more of Cocaine, Methamphetamine, or heroin; 50 grams or more of a narcotic other than heroin, meth, or cocaine; 50 grams or more or more than 100 doses of hallucinogens or amphetamine; and 50 kilograms or more of marijuana. The sentence can yield up to 25 years in prison and $500,000 in fines when

Third Degree Drug Possession
This charge can be brought against anyone caught in possession of 3 grams or more of cocaine, methamphetamine or heroin; 10 grams or more of a narcotic other than meth, cocaine, or heroin; 50 or more doses of narcotics; 5 doses of LSD; and 10 kilograms or more of marijuana. The sentence can yield up to 20 years in prison and $250,000 in fines.

Fourth Degree Drug Possession
This charge can be brought against anyone caught with 10 or more dosage units of a hallucinogen. This felony can carry up to 15 years in prison and $100,000 in fines.

Fifth Degree Drug Possession
This charge is the least severe. Under Fifth Degree Possession, it is unlawful for a person to possess one or more mixtures containing a controlled substance classified in schedule I, II, III, or IV, except a small amount of marijuana, which is a petty misdemeanor unless found in a motor vehicle. Fifth Degree Drug Possession can carry a sentence of up to 5 years and fines up to $10,000, or both.

Additional Minnesota drug and controlled substance crimes include:

  • Importing Controlled Substances
  • Possession of Substances With Intent to Manufacture Methamphetamine
  • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
  • Simulated Controlled Substances
  • Anhydrous Ammonia Prohibited Conduct
  • Methamphetamine Crime Involving Children & Vulnerable Adults
The penalties associated with various drug offenses depend upon the substance at issue, the use of the substance and the volume of the substance. Drug offenses can results in prison time, fines, probation, and driver’s license suspension. The government can also take money or other property found in proximity to drugs, such as firearms, vehicles, even homes and businesses.

Drug crime charges can lead to serious consequences if not dealt with swiftly and properly. Reaching out to a Minnesota defense attorney can ensure the protection of your rights and prevent a conviction. With your future at stake, contact the knowledgeable Minneapolis criminal lawyer Paul Edlund as soon as possible. Serving Minneapolis, St. Paul, the Greater Twin Cities Metro and beyond, Mr. Edlund is a reputable criminal defense attorney with an exceptional rate of success. The earlier a lawyer is involved with your case, the better your attorney will be able to defend you: Contact Paul Edlund today for a consultation!

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