Of all the drug crimes, those involving heroin are prosecuted particularly harshly by New York authorities. If you face charges, you will want to get help to fight them and clear your name. These are the state’s heroin laws.
Possession of heroin
Possession of a tiny amount of heroin such as half a gram could result in class D felony charges. However, the greater the amount of heroin you possess, the higher the charges and penalties if you’re convicted.
Possession of an eighth of an ounce is classified as a class C felony while possession of half an ounce is a class B felony. In the most serious case, possession of 8 ounces or more of heroin, you could face class A-I felony charges.
Sale and distribution of heroin
If a person possesses heroin with the intention of selling and distributing it, they can face severe charges regardless of the amount of the drug. According to New York law, selling any narcotic in any amount is considered a class B felony. A person could face these charges if they are found to have heroin in packages with measuring scales and large amounts of money in their possession.
Even being caught selling less than an ounce of heroin can result in a class A-II felony charge. However, depending on the exact amount of heroin involved, a conviction for sale and distribution could result in a maximum fine of $50,000 and life in prison.
If a person is caught by a police officer selling heroin on school grounds to a person under the age of 21, they can face class a B felony charge for sale and distribution. A conviction carries a prison sentence of up to 25 years and a maximum fine of $30,000.
Trafficking of heroin
Drug crimes involving trafficking are punished most harshly. A charge of trafficking heroin is considered a class A-I felony, which is the most severe classification. A conviction for trafficking can result in a maximum fine of $100,000 and life in prison.
Schedule I class drugs like heroin are opioids, which are some of the most highly addictive. Any of these charges could have a significantly negative effect on your future.