Different Types Of Drug Offences

Adhering to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, drug offences and charges are in place to help control both the use and distribution of dangerous, harmful and illegal substances. There are several different types of drug offence that can be handed out, with differing degrees of severity and consequence, here, we look at the different types of drug offences and the potential penalties that could occur:

Possession

Possession offences occur when an individual is caught carrying an illegal substance on their person. Most minor offences won't be brought forward to the Crown Prosecution Service, for instance, if you are found to be in possession of cannabis or Khat, the police may choose to handle minor offences with on the spot fines or formal/written warnings, but Class A substances, such as Cocaine or Heroin will always be taken very seriously.

Supply

Supply offences happen when an individual either sells or shares illegal substances with others. Even if you didn't pay for them yourself, supplying drugs to others is a serious offence, particularly if you're found to have been operating in the mass distribution of Class A substances.

Possession With Intent

If you are found to be in possession of an illegal substance and there is clear evidence of intent to sell, such as large quantities that are inconsistent with personal use, bags, scales or cash, then you are likely to be faced with an offence of possession with intent to supply.

Importation

No matter the scale of the operation, importing or exporting illegal substances is against the law. If an individual is caught in possession of restricted or illegal substances when entering another country, particularly if they are found to have possession with intent to smuggle and supply, they are committing a serious crime.



Production

Involvement with the production of illegal substances in any capacity is against the law. For example, if you are providing premises or equipment, or can be proved in any way to have knowledge of controlled drug production, you can be charged with the production of illegal substances. If the production is on a particularly large scale and can be linked to a supply chain, then you may also be charged with production and possession with intent to supply.

If you’re looking for professional advice regarding drug-related offences, our team of legal experts at Lefevre Litigation can help. We have extensive experience handling a number of cases involving drugs, with an in-depth knowledge of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and the related legal proceedings. Don’t hesitate to act, get in touch with us today for professional help and advice.