Possession of Heroin and Cocaine in Michigan
Stiff penalties await anyone convicted of possessing dangerous and addictive drugs such as cocaine and heroin.
Heroin and cocaine are dangerous and highly addictive illegal substances, and Michigan law is hard on those caught possessing these drugs.
Help is Available for Heroin or Cocaine Possession Charges in Macomb County and throughout Michigan
If you’ve been charged with possession of heroin or cocaine in Michigan or Macomb County, please contact Michigan Justice at (586) 221-1400. Consulting with an experienced lawyer from our firm can better ensure that your rights are protected. Drug possession charges must be handled with the utmost attention to detail, and that’s what we do best at Michigan Justice. The head of our criminal defense department, Goran Antovski, is an accomplished defense attorney and has had many cases for and with the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office . He and the Michigan Justice team will rigorously and steadfastly defend your rights and work to provide the best possible outcome for your case.
The Drugs Themselves: Heroin and Cocaine
Heroin, which is derived from morphine, creates intense feelings of euphoria—and this is part of what makes it so addictive. However, heroin users quickly build a tolerance to the drug, so that more and more is needed to maintain that “high” feeling. Dependence quickly sets in, requiring regular use of the drug in order to avoid terrible withdrawal symptoms. Heroin is classified as a Schedule 1 illegal drug, and is considered one of the most dangerous and addictive drugs known to man.
Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant synthesized from the coca plant. Like heroin, cocaine can create feelings of euphoria in users, as well as inducing increased energy and feelings of restlessness. There are two primary types of cocaine: the powdered form and “crack” cocaine. The powdered form is usually snorted, but it can also be eaten or injected. “Crack” cocaine is typically smoked through a pipe. Recreational use can rapidly lead to dependence. Withdrawal from cocaine causes the addict to crash, and includes symptoms such as extreme fatigue, depression, anxiety and paranoia. Cocaine is classified as a Schedule 2 illegal drug.
What is Possession?
Possession, in terms of heroin, cocaine, and other drugs, does not necessarily mean ownership. Possession means that either:
- the person has actual physical control of the drug, i.e. it was in their pocket,
or
- the person has the right to control the drug, even though it is in a different room or place.
Possession may be sole, where one person alone possesses the drug, or possession may be joint, where two or more people each share control.
Penalties for Possession of Heroin
Under Michigan law, the possible penalties for heroin possession are as follows:
- Possession of less than 50 grams of heroin, or any mixture containing heroin, is a felony that carries a possible prison sentence of up to 4 years and fines up to $25,000.
- Possession of between 50 grams and 450 grams of heroin, or any mixture containing heroin, is a felony that carries a possible prison sentence of up to 20 years and fines up to $250,000.
- Possession of between 450 grams and 1 kilogram of heroin, or a mixture containing heroin, is a felony with possible prison time up to 30 years and possible fines of up to $500,000.
- Possession of over 1 kilogram of heroin, or a mixture containing heroin, carries a possible life sentence and fines of up to $1,000,000.
Penalties for Possession of Cocaine
According to Michigan law, the possible penalties for cocaine possession are:
- Simple cocaine “use” is a misdemeanor resulting in a maximum jail sentence of one year and possible fine of $2,000.
- Possession of less than 50 grams of cocaine carries a possible 4-year prison sentence and a fine of up to $25,000.
- Possession of between 50 grams and 450 grams of cocaine carries a possible 20-year prison sentence and a fine of up to $250,000.
- Possession of between 450 grams and 1 kilogram of cocaine can send a person to prison for of up to 30 years, with a possible fine of up to $500,000.
- Possession of over 1 kilogram of cocaine can lead to a possible life sentence in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
What should I do if I’ve been Charged with Possession of Heroin or Cocaine in Macomb County and throughout Michigan?
If you’ve been charged, or suspect you are being investigated by the police for cocaine or heroin possession, please don’t wait to obtain a lawyer as soon as possible. It is crucial you have an attorney who knows the law if you are facing drug possession allegations. There may be defenses to the charges or an opportunity to bargain for a plea deal. If you’ve been charged or arrested in connection with heroin or cocaine possession, you need experienced and skillful legal representation.
Please call Michigan Justice at (586) 221-4100 today to speak with our knowledgeable and dedicated criminal law attorney, Goran Antovski. Mr. Antovski possesses insider knowledge which he uses to secure the best possible outcomes for his clients.