Category Archives: Drug Crimes
What are the Penalties for Unlawful Possession of Illegal Drugs in Virginia?
In addition to other drug crimes, the Commonwealth of Virginia makes it unlawful to possess illegal drugs, which are referred to legally as controlled substances. If a person violates these laws, they are guilty of unlawful possession and subject to criminal penalties, including jail or prison time and substantial fines. At this juncture, it… Read More »
Fatal Drug Overdoses Increasing Across USA & Virginia
The number of fatal drug overdoses increased almost 10 percent across the United States in recent years, according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to the CDC, opioids seem to be a driving factor behind the increase of fatal overdoses. Across the United States, opioids caused approximately… Read More »
How Does Virginia Classify Illegal Drugs & Other Substances?
It is a crime in Virginia to possess or distribute illegal drugs or similar substances. All of these compounds are legally referred to as controlled substances. In Virginia, state law requires the Board of Pharmacy (the Board) to classify controlled substances in different categories, referred to legally as schedules. These schedules exist to control… Read More »
Common Nuisances & Fortified Drug Houses Under Virginia Law
In addition to laws against possession and distribution of illegal drugs, the Commonwealth of Virginia also prohibits the maintenance of common nuisances and fortified drugs houses. On an overarching level, these terms refer to properties or environments where illegal drugs are bought and sold. In order to dissuade property owners from maintaining these types… Read More »
The First-Time Offender Program for Virginia Drug Crimes
Virginia generally employs harsh penalties for drug crimes, including possession and distribution of controlled substances. Though in certain cases, first-time offenders can take advantage of a special program, rather than facing misdemeanor or felony charges. Instead of entering a guilty plea, the Virginia courts are allowed to place first-time drug offenders directly on probation… Read More »
How Does Virginia Punish Distributing or Advertising Illegal Drugs to Minors?
Although the Commonwealth of Virginia treats all drug crimes with the utmost seriousness, there are special considerations in place for distributing or advertising illegal drugs to minor children. In this context, the term minor children applies to kids under the age of 18 years old. Distributing Illegal Drugs to Minor Children Code of Virginia… Read More »
What are the Laws Against & Penalties for Drug Paraphernalia in Virginia?
In addition to other drug crimes in Virginia, it is unlawful to possess, sell, or advertise for any type of tools or equipment associated with illegal drugs. Legally referred to as drug paraphernalia under Virginia law, these tools and equipment help the user prepare and consume illegal drugs. As a result, Virginia treats drug… Read More »
Virginia Woman Sentenced for Distributing Deadly Heroin
A Virginia woman received a 30-year prison sentence for various drug crimes, including distribution of deadly heroin, according to an article by CBS affiliate WTKR. In terms of background, this 43-year-old woman operated as a heroin dealer out of her home on Southside Road in the Oceanfront area. Facts introduced at trial indicated that… Read More »
Virginia Police Arrest Hopewell Man for Cocaine & Firearm Crimes
Virginia police officers arrested and charged a 23-year-old man from Hopewell for drug crimes and weapon offenses, according to an article by NBC affiliate WWBT. In making this arrest, police seized cocaine and various other contraband from the Hopewell man’s possession. In terms of background, police officers executed a residential search warrant on Friday… Read More »
Possession & Distribution of Medical Marijuana in Virginia
In most situations, it is illegal to possess or distribute marijuana in Virginia. As with other illegal drugs classified as controlled substances, there are severe criminal penalties for possession and distribution of marijuana. On the other hand, it is possible for certain people to possess and use marijuana for medical purposes. Accordingly, it is… Read More »