The law prohibits the possession of numerous types of mind-altering drugs and regulates the possession of prescription medication. There are also rules prohibiting economic activities related to drugs and even the possession of paraphernalia.
Paraphernalia charges can stem from a variety of different types of property, with the three categories of items below accounting for many paraphernalia charges.
1. Drug consumption tools
Depending on the type of substance police officers suspect a person of using, there may be many different types of tools that facilitate consumption. Syringes, various types of glass pipes and other items used for the consumption of illicit substances can easily trigger paraphernalia charges, especially if they have detectable drug residue on them.
2. Items used to package and weigh drugs
Many paraphernalia charges connect to accusations of distribution or an intent to distribute. Scales, including postage scales and digital scales that weigh by amounts less than a gram, different types of packaging and tools used to hide or hold different drugs can also lead to paraphernalia charges.
3. Items used for drug production
There are chemicals and various tools used to cultivate mind-altering substances. There are also many chemical compounds associated with the production of a specific substance. Other products, such as baby formula, are often used as adulterants.
The possession of items associated with drug production or cultivation can also lead to paraphernalia charges. Paraphernalia charges may stand on their own or may come in conjunction with possession or other more serious drug charges.
Anyone accused of violating drug statutes is at risk of a lifelong criminal record and an assortment of criminal penalties. Responding to those allegations in court with the help of a criminal defense attorney can potentially limit the risk of common tools and household items leading to a drug-related conviction.