The law on drugs is complex. But if
you're caught with an illegal substance ignorance won't wash with
the police.
Knowing the score means:
- Understanding the laws which
govern different drugs:
- Understanding your rights if
suspected of possession, or possession with intent to supply a
controlled substance.
The Misuse of Drugs Act divides drugs
into three classes:
Class A:
Ecstasy, LSD (acid), magic mushrooms prepared for use, heroin,
methadone, crack, cocaine, opium, and any class B drug prepared for
injection.
Less common substances: dextromoramide (e.g. Palfium),
dipipanone, fentanyl, mescaline, pethidine, PCP, all parts of the
seeds of the opium poppy (after mowing).
Max. penalties: possession: 7 years prison and/or a fine,
supply: life imprisonment and/or a fine.
Class B:
Amphetamines (speed), cannabis (soon likely to become Class C),
barbiturates, and codeine. less common substances: dexamphetamine,
dihydrocodeine (DF0118), methaqualone, methylamphetamine (Ritalin),
phenmetrazine (Filon)
Max penalties: possession: 5 years prison and/or a fine,
supply: 14 years prison and/or a fine.
Class C:
Some tranquillisers like Temazepam, the supply of anabolic steroids.
Max penalties: possession: 2 years prison and/or a fine,
supply: 5 years prison and/or a fine.
These penalties are given in a Crown Court. In a Magistrates Court,
where less serious offences are dealt with, the maximum sentence is
six months imprisonment and a 5000 pound fine. The actual sentence
you're likely to get will also depend on:
- The drug involved.
- Any previous criminal record.
- Your personal circumstances (i.e.
being a single parent).
- The attitude of the presiding
magistrate/judge.
Some other drugs are controlled by the
Medicines Act. It may not be illegal to possess drugs such as
prescription medicines, ketamine or GHB (gammahydroxybutyrate) but
supply is still an offence.
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