Drug Possession Charges in Virginia Vary Greatly

Drug possession charges can carry serious jail and prison sentences.  For a Norfolk repeat drug offender the sentence, even after a guilty plea, was 23 years. 

Police found that the man had distributed more than 100 pounds of heroin, nine pounds of cocaine and more than 37 pounds of marijuana.

In Virginia, like most states, drug charges vary depending on the drug, the amount of drugs found and the intent of the accused.  For example, when talking about the possession, cultivation or sale of marijuana charges vary greatly. 

If the accused is charged with their first possession offense the standard penalty is a misdemeanor with the possibility of 30 days in jail and a $2,500 fine.  However, if the charged has brought five pound or more into Virginia with the intent to sell the penalties are a felony charge with a three year mandatory minimum, forty year maximum sentence and a $1,000,000 fine. 

If you have been accused of a drug possession crime be sure that you understand the implications of the charges.  If you have any questions or need legal advice please contact an experienced attorney at Tavss Fletcher today.