Cocaine Possession
Possessing any illegal controlled substance is illegal in Ohio including cocaine. Cocaine is a strong stimulant that can be snorted, inhaled as smoke or injected straight into the vein. The drug can induce loss of contact with reality and intense feelings of happiness or euphoria. Since it’s such a high-risk drug the state of Ohio has implemented harsh penalties for possession.
Possessing even trace amounts of cocaine can result in felony charges. You could be stuck with expensive fines in the thousands and even be required to spend time in prison. To avoid these penalties, it’s recommended you gain effective legal counsel. Hiring a skilled defense attorney can significantly increase your chances of having your charges reduced or dismissed.
Cincinnati Attorneys for Cocaine Possession in Ohio
Cocaine possession is a serious offense that can result in criminal charges. If you’ve been arrested for possessing cocaine, it’s time you call Joslyn Law Firm. Our attorneys at Joslyn Law Firm understand the complexities of drug possession cases. We want to utilize our experience and skills to your case to help you achieve the best possible result.
Call us now to set up your first free consultation. We will sit with you, answer your legal questions and determine the next best step for your case. Joslyn Law Firm practices throughout the greater Hamilton County area including Cincinnati, Harrison, Cleves, and Blue Ash.
Overview of Cocaine Possession in Ohio
- What is Cocaine and its Effects?
- Penalties for Cocaine Possession
- Adult Drug Court in Ohio
- Additional Resources
What is Cocaine and Its Effects?
Cocaine, otherwise known as coke, is a type of stimulant that can induce an intense feeling of ecstasy, disassociation or agitation. It can be snorted, inhaled or injected directly into a vein for consumption. Its effects begin within five and ninety minutes after using the drug after usage.
The drug’s effects are caused by the reward pathways of the brain, also known as a mesolimbic pathway. These pathways are used to release dopamine and have been related to our motivation and desire for rewarding stimuli. Cocaine inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, which are all chemicals connected to happiness or euphoria.
By inhibiting the reuptake, the drug creates greater concentrations of these neurotransmitters. This can lead to the desired effect of feeling intense joy, exhilaration or agitation. Because of its effects, cocaine is incredibly addictive. It has consistently been one of the most frequently used illegal drugs in the United States since the 1980’s.
Penalties for Cocaine Possession in Ohio
Cocaine is a schedule II drug, so the penalties for possession are incredibly serious. Possessing even minimal amounts under 5 grams can lead to felony charges. This could mean you might be sentenced with time in prison. It’s important you’re aware of the potential penalties before you enter the courtroom.
Listed below are the penalties for cocaine possession in Ohio
|
Amount |
Offense Level |
|
Prison Time |
|
Less than 5 grams |
Fifth-degree felony |
A fine of up to $2,500 |
Up to 12 months in prison |
|
At or over 5 grams, but less than 10 grams |
Fourth-degree felony |
A fine of up to $5,000 |
Up to 18 months in prison |
|
At or over 10 grams, but less than 20 grams |
Third-degree felony |
A fine of up to $10,000 |
Up to 5 years in prison |
|
At or over 20 grams, but less than 27 grams |
Second-degree felony |
A fine of up to $10,000 |
Up to 5 years in prison |
|
At or over 27 grams, but less than 100 grams |
First-degree felony |
A fine of up to $20,000 |
Up to 11 years in prison |
|
100 grams or more |
First-degree felony |
A fine of up to $20,000 |
Up to 11 years in prison |
Adult Drug Court in Ohio
The penalties associated with cocaine possession are nothing to laugh about. Many offenders choose to participate in adult drug court rather than face possible fines and prison time. Drug court is a rehabilitative treatment program designed to stop the vicious cycle of criminal behavior and drug abuse.
If the judge and district attorney agree, then you may be able to participate in drug court. The program offers treatment for drug offenders based on a substance abuse evaluation. You can successfully complete the program to have your charges reduced or dropped. However, not everyone is allowed into drug court. To participate, you must meet the following requirements:
- Diagnosed with a drug addiction from the substance abuse evaluation;
- Have enough motivation to change habits and enter treatment;
- Meet the guidelines for presumption of probation; and
- Were convicted of a drug offense
You cannot be admitted into drug court if you have any of the following:
- A firearm that was present during the crime;
- The charges were violent or sexually oriented;
- You were charged with drug trafficking;
- Your record has multiple prior felony convictions; or
- You were convicted of a violent crime
Additional Resources
Cocaine Info & Side Effects – Visit the official website for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to read more information about cocaine and it’s short and long-term effects. Access the site to learn more about cocaine’s street names, how it’s made and drugs similar to it.
Ohio’s Drug Laws – Visit the official website for the Ohio Revised Code to learn more about their drug possession laws. Access the statutes to learn more about drug possession, drug trafficking, controlled substance schedules and their associated penalties.
Cocaine Possession Lawyer in Hamilton County, OH
If you or someone you know has been charged with possession of cocaine, it’s imperative you contact an experienced attorney. They can assist you, discover your legal options and defend you in court. For an experienced and skilled attorney, we advise you call Joslyn Law Firm.
The defense lawyers at Joslyn Law Firm have been representing people accused of drug crime for years. We can overlook your charges and help you find the best possible solution. With our years of experience and insightful knowledge, we can effectively defend you.
Call us now at (513) 399-6289 to set up your first free consultation. Joslyn Law Firm represents people accused of drug crimes throughout the greater Hamilton County area including Forrest Park, Springdale Norwood, Cleves and Cincinnati.
This article was last updated on July 25, 2019.
