Cocaine is a highly abused drug in Michigan that gives its users a powerful “high” and numbing effect. It can be inhaled, smoked or injected directly into the body. Due to its severe negative consequences, recreational use is illegal in the entire country and possession or distribution could lead to harsh punishments.
Cocaine: A dangerous nervous stimulant
Cocaine is classified as a schedule II drug Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 333.7214(a)(iv). This means that it has a high potential for abuse but can be used under medical supervision. For example, before Novocaine, dentists clinically used cocaine as a local anesthetic during dental surgeries.
Punishments for cocaine possession
The punishment for possessing cocaine in Michigan depends on the amount of cocaine you have in your possession. If caught with less than 25 grams, you will be charged with a felony and could face up to four years in prison and a $25,000 fine. If caught with more than 25 grams, you’ll also face a felony charge but with harsher consequences, like up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Punishments for selling or distributing cocaine
If you are caught selling or distributing less than 50 grams of cocaine, you will be charged with a felony and could face up to four years in prison and a $25,000 fine. Any amount greater than 50 grams could lead to 20 years to life in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. Further, repeat offenders often get a mandatory life sentence.
Defense for a cocaine charge
You or your criminal defense attorney can use a few defenses if charged with cocaine possession or distribution in Michigan. One defense is entrapment. This means that the police lured you into selling or distributing cocaine when you would not have done so otherwise. Another defense is illegal search and seizure. The Fourth Amendment prohibits police officers from searching you or your property without a warrant or probable cause.
Besides a jail term and hefty fines, a cocaine charge will also significantly affect other areas of your life like your job, schooling and future opportunities. The law recognizes this and, therefore, gives you the right to use any defenses you might have to minimize the penalties or throw out the case altogether.
