DRUGS IN AMERICA

Drugs- a medicine or other substance which has a physiological effect when ingested or otherwise introduced into the body. 50-70% of people taken into custody

test positive for drugs Higher drug trade = higher the crime

rate Possession, distribution, or sale violates

federal and/or state laws

Controlled Substances Act- Federal Drug Law that classifies drugs into categories: Medical Use Potential for abuse Lead to severe psychological/physical

dependency

States have harsh penalties for drug offenders Mandatory sentences- Prison time

that is not negotiable Some states have forfeiture laws-

state can seize property/bank accounts acquired through money made on the drug trade Some dealers try to make money

legitimately through money laundering

Drug Charges: 1. Possession- Having illegal

substances and/or substances used to manufacture or cultivate drugs

2. Possession with Intent to Sell- Having a large amount (felony). Police do not have to prove that the defendant was going to sell the drugs; it is simply the amount

3. Trafficking- Transporting drugs into the US or across state lines

4. Distributing- A situation in which a drug manufacturer sells narcotics to a retailer or wholesaler, which then sells the drugs to other groups or individuals

5. Paraphernalia- Any equipment, product, or material that is modified for making, using, or concealing drugs

Two categories: User specific products and dealer specific products