Many types of criminal charges come in multiple levels of severity. This is true for drug possession crimes as well. Drugs are classified into different categories based on their perceived dangers and penalties depend upon the category of the drugs involved in the alleged crime.
One of the more dangerous drugs that people consume is methamphetamine. Indiana has gone to great lengths to curb the abuse of meth. The potential penalty for people possessing methamphetamines can be severe.
Potential charges for methamphetamine possession
Under Indiana law, the potential penalties depend on the amount people possess.
- It is a Level 6 felony if people possess less than five grams
- It is a Level 5 felony if people possess between five grams and 10 grams
- It is a level 4 felony if people possess between 10 grams and 28 grams
- It is a Level 3 felony if people possess 28 grams or more
There are also enhancing circumstances and if those are present in addition to the simple possession people may have a higher felony. For example, if a defendant possesses less than five grams of methamphetamines, they could still be charged with a Level 5 felony if there are enhancement circumstances.
People charged with methamphetamine possession are not automatically considered guilty. There could be defenses available to them and people need to go through the criminal justice system before they can be found guilty of the alleged crime.
There are many people charged with methamphetamine possession each year in Indiana. Depending on the circumstances, these charges can range from serious to extremely serious. Anyone accused of meth-related crimes needs a powerful criminal defense strategy.