Facing drug-related charges is a big deal. Depending on the nature of the circumstances, you can be arraigned at the state or federal court. And a conviction can have far-reaching personal and legal complications.
One of the drug-related offenses you can be charged with is the possession of drug paraphernalia. But what exactly is this and what are the penalties if convicted?
Understanding what it means to be in possession of drug paraphernalia per Maryland laws:
Objects used for abusing, selling and manufacturing drugs
Most people understand that possession of illegal substances can lead to a criminal conviction. However, according to the Maryland statute, possession of drug paraphernalia too can also lead to a criminal charge.
Under Maryland law, drug paraphernalia refers to any product, equipment or material that aids in the production, transportation and use of controlled substances.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, you will be charged with a misdemeanor. And if you are convicted, you may pay huge fines or spend time in jail.
Examples of circumstances when you can be charged with possession of drug paraphernalia in Maryland:
- Any kit that you intend to use for planting, growing or harvesting a controlled substance or a plant from which a controlled substance can be extracted.
- Any material, mixture or compound that is used or intended for use in the production or preparation of the controlled substance
- Any equipment that is used or intended to test, identify or analyze the content, effectiveness and purity of a controlled substance
- Any isomerization device that is meant for boosting the potency of a plant species used for the production of a controlled substance
- Any machine used for balancing, scaling or measuring controlled substances
- Any chemical used to dilute or adulterate a controlled substance with the goal of boosting its potency
- Any packaging container (capsule, envelope or balloon) that is used or intended for use in packaging and distributing controlled substances
A conviction for drug paraphernalia possession is a serious crime. Learning more about Maryland’s drug laws can help you build an effective defense when facing possession of drug paraphernalia charges.