Generally, drug crimes include the possession, manufacturing or selling of drugs. Common illegal drugs include Marijuana, Heroin, Methamphetamine, Cocaine, LSD, Ecstasy and prescription drugs such as Vicodin, Valium, Celexa, Ritalin, anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications.
Common Drug Crimes include:
- Possession, distribution, manufacturing or sale of narcotics
- Drug trafficking and transportation
- Prescription fraud
- Conspiracy to traffic drugs
- Marijuana sale, possession or manufacturing
- Crack cocaine sale, possession or manufacturing
- Cocaine sale, possession or manufacturing
- Methamphetamine sale, possession or manufacturing
- Heroin sale, possession or manufacturing
Simulated Controlled Substances are legal substances represented as illegal drugs. In Minnesota, it's a crime to sell, possess or manufacture a legal substance if you represent to someone that it's an illegal drug. One common example of this is pretending that oregano is actually marijuana with the intent to sell.
If convicted of certain drug crimes, a defendant can face up to 40 years imprisonment and/or a $1 million dollar fine.
Minnesota's Drug and Controlled Substance Statutes contain several types of drug offenses (click on the links to view the applicable statute):
1. First Degree Controlled Substance (maximum of 30 years imprisonment and/or a $1,000,000 fine)
2. Second Degree Controlled Substance (maximum of 25 years imprisonment and/or a $500,000 fine)
3. Third Degree Controlled Substance (maximum of 20 years imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine)
4. Fourth Degree Controlled Substance (maximum of 15 years imprisonment and/or a $100,000 fine)
5. Fifth Degree Controlled Substance (maximum of 5 years imprisonment and/or a $100,000 fine)
6. Importing Controlled Substances (maximum of 35 imprisonment and/or a $1,250,000 fine)
7. Possession of Substances with Intent to Manufacture Methamphetamine (maximum of 10 years imprisonment
and/or a $20,000 fine)
8. Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (maximum of a $300 fine)
9. Simulated Controlled Substances (maximum of 3 years imprisonment and/or a $20,000 fine)
10. Anhydrous Ammonia Prohibited Conduct (maximum of 5 years imprisonment and/or a $50,000 fine)
11. Methamphetamine Crime Involving Children and Vulnerable Adults (maximum of 5 years imprisonment and/or a
$10,000 fine)
NOTE: Several of the above drug and controlled substances maximum penalties can increase for repeat offense convictions.
Our law firm understands that drug crimes can dramatically affect your life. Being convicted of a drug crime can negatively affect your ability to obtain employment, housing and carry firearms. we understand that a drug crime charge is not always justified and that you often have a reasonable explanation. We actively interview witnesses, complete fact investigation and analyze evidence rather than relying on the prosecution's assertions and allegations.
As your devoted legal representative, we will:
• Be available 24 hours a day to answer your questions and alleviate your concerns
• Investigate your case by reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses and hiring private investigators if necessary
• Thoroughly explain the charges against you, what the possible defenses are, and what the likely outcomes will be
• Explain what to expect in court and attend all court appearances with you
• Spend invaluable one-on-one time with you to ensure you are fully aware of all aspects of the case
• Zealously advocate on your behalf to dismiss your case (if possible)
• Skillfully negotiate on your behalf to minimize any jail time, prison time, probationary period or fines
• Respect you, listen to you and genuinely care about your future
Unlike some attorneys, we make every case a top priority. We listen to our clients and don't judge them. Most importantly, we will never charge you an unjustified fee only to ignore your case and leave you in the dark. We promise to keep you informed from start to finish and explain every calculated decision we make. With our guidance and zealous advocacy, you will feel comfortable in making a carefully-planned decision about your future.
Contact Drug Crimes Defense Attorney Christopher W. Keyser at (612) 338-5007 for a free, confidential and pressure-free consultation.
