There are many types of drug-related crimes. These crimes range from simple possession to manufacturing and trafficking. Most drug offenses are the result of one or more of these categories. However, some crimes fall under a few categories. Here is a brief list of some examples of crimes. The most common type of drug crime is possession. However, if you have ever been accused of drug possession, you should know your rights.
A drug-related crime can involve using a controlled substance or trying to obtain money to buy drugs. This type of crime is often a product of organized crime. The majority of drug users do not commit crimes just to pay for drugs. While the media may create a fear of drug crimes, most offenders did not start their criminal careers due to their use of drugs. Eliminating drug use from society would only reduce crime by a small percentage.
Other types of drug-related crimes include theft and petty crime. These crimes are often associated with highly addictive drugs. Drugs that can be stolen include heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamines, and prescription pain pills. While drug-related theft crimes are often associated with a criminal’s use of highly addictive street drugs, petty theft can also occur amongst recreational drug users.
Simple possession of a controlled substance usually carries less serious penalties than charges of possession with intent to distribute. However, this difference is not due to intent to sell, but the amount of the substance that the defendant possesses. Smaller amounts of a substance will usually be charged as a misdemeanor, while larger amounts often suggest a felony. As a general rule, however, the penalties of drug-related crimes depend on the type and quantity of drugs.
Criminal convictions for simple possession of illegal drugs may qualify for diversion. In most states, people with a drug-related conviction can keep their clean criminal records by successfully completing a prescribed substance abuse program. Additionally, these individuals do not commit additional crimes during their diversionary period. Diversionary programs are generally 18 months long, and the court dismisses the case at the end of that time. If you are convicted of a drug-related crime, you may be in danger of losing your job, losing your college loan, or being denied the right to vote. You may also be denied the right to own guns.
A link between drugs and crime is apparent from the very word “drugs.” While the link between drugs and crime may be causal, this does not mean that drug-related crime necessarily leads to criminal activity. Crime related to drugs involves both possession and trafficking. Hard-core drug users often resort to crime in order to finance their habit and maintain their lifestyle. Nevertheless, this is not always the only form of drug-related crime.
In the United States, alcohol is associated with more violent crimes than any other illegal drug. Alcohol is involved in about half of homicides and assaults. In addition, alcohol is the most common drug involved in crimes involving intimate partners. About two-thirds of those arrested in these situations report that alcohol has a role in their crime. Even strangers are not immune to alcohol-related crimes. It is important to understand the full impact of these crimes when considering their potential to cause violence.